5 Greatest Boston Fighters of All Time

Boston is renowned for producing some of the greatest fighters in the world. From boxing legends to MMA champions, the city has seen it all. So if you're a fan of boxing or just placing bets using the popular BetMGM Massachusetts bonus code, we've compiled a list of the five greatest Boston fighters of all time.

Marvelous Marvin Hagler

Legendary Marvin Nathaniel Hagler (May 23, 1954 – March 13, 2021) was a professional boxer and actor who fought in the ring from 1973 to 1987. He dominated as the undisputed champion of the middleweight division for seven great years; during this time, he successfully defended his title an astonishing twelve times. Hagler also holds one of boxing's highest knockout percentages at 78%, making him incomparable among other undisputed middleweight champions.

Marvelous Marvin Hagler's impressive reign as middleweight champion spanned a magnificent six years and seven months, second only to Tony Zale's title-holding period that was extended due to his service in World War II. Acknowledging the controversy surrounding being called "Marvelous" by network announcers, Hagler officially changed his name from "Marvin Hagler" to include this moniker when he became legally recognized in 1982

Rocky Marciano

The formidable Rocky Marciano, born Rocco Francis Marchegiano on September 1, 1923, and passed away on August 31, 1969, reigned over the heavyweight boxing scene from 1952 to 1956. He's remembered for his undefeated streak in a career that included six title defenses against the likes of Jersey Joe Walcott, Roland La Starza, Ezzard Charles (x2), Don Cockell and Archie Moore.

Freddie Roach

Frederick Steven Roach, born on March 5, 1960, is a renowned American boxing trainer and former professional boxer. He has repeatedly proven himself to be one of the greatest trainers in history, coaching eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao and five-time four-division world champion Miguel Cotto. The reputable Coach Roach also trained WBC Middleweight Champion Julio César Chávez Jr., three times World Champion James Toney, and leading prospects Jose Benavidez, Peter Quillin, and Vanes Martirosyan, among many others. Roach is best known for coaching two-time women's world boxing champion Lucia Rijker. He has also had the privilege of training former junior welterweight Champion Amir Khan.

John Indrisano

Born in Boston, Indrisano was a formidable fighter who emerged victorious against two world welterweight champions: Lou Brouillard and Jackie Fields. To his disappointment, he never received an official match for the world welterweight title. When he retired at thirty-seven wins (two by knockout) and nine defeats, it seemed that one of the boxing greatest would remain forever unrecognized as champion.

Following his retirement from boxing, Indrisano ventured into multiple industries. He became a referee, stunt man and minor actor in films such as "Some Like It Hot" and "Guys & Dolls," along with The Bowery Boys movies ("Live Wires," "Mr. Hex" and "Trouble Makers"), several Joe Palooka flicks, plus three Elvis Presley pictures ("Jailhouse Rock," "King Creole," and the iconic classic "It Happened at the World's Fair.") Additionally he worked for Mae West between 1937-1942 as her bodyguard! To cap off an illustrious entertainment resume', he was even featured on an episode of the beloved sitcom 'The New Phil Silvers Show' in 1964. After a life well-lived, he passed away in Los Angeles at the young age of 62.

Peter McNeeley

On October 6, 1968, Peter McNeeley debuted as a professional heavyweight boxer with an ambition to "wrap Tyson in a cocoon." He aggressively approached the 1995 fight with Mike Tyson but was quickly brought back to earth after receiving two knockdowns within the first two minutes. His manager Vinnie Vecchione had no choice but to step in and save him from further damage, resulting in his disqualification. Nevertheless, this match-up earned recognition by making it onto TV Guide's list of 50 Great TV Sports Moments of All Time in 1998.

The Bottom Line

The history of boxing is filled with legendary fighters, each making their unique mark on the sport. From the controversial "Marvelous" Marvin Hagler to unbeatable Rocky Marciano and endlessly entertaining Peter McNeeley, these memorable fighters have an indelible impact on boxing. Furthermore, trainers like Freddie Roach and John Indrisano have contributed significantly to the sport. Boxing has a long and storied past that continues to inspire generations of athletes, and there's no sign of it slowing down any time soon!