‘It was crazy’… Roberto Duran’s short-notice part-time plasterer opponent on their unlikely fight

Roberto Duran shared the ring with the very best during his incredible career.

The former Ring Magazine ‘Fighter of the Decade’ Duran changed the sport with his achievements, as he showed fantastic longevity throughout his career.

‘El Cholo’s’ career began in 1968, and he fought all the way until 2001, finishing his career with a record of 103-16. This period would see him deliver a devastating loss to Sugar Ray Leonard, as well as becoming a four-division champion.

Although he faced some greats throughout his fighting career, there was one unlikely opponent that Duran faced.

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Roberto Duran faced a part-time plasterer on short notice in 1997

In November 1997, Duran was seeking his 100th win as a professional, boasting a professional record of 99-13. To get the landmark win, Duran was set to compete in South Africa.

However, following a late withdrawal from his opponent, a replacement was sought. Then, up stepped part-time plasterer David Radford.

In a story not too dissimilar to 2025’s Josh Padley fighting for a world title as a part-time electrician, Radford was given the chance of a lifetime.

Speaking to the BBC about the fight, Radford’s initial reaction was, ‘”No, no, not the Roberto Duran, he’ll kill me.’

Radford went into the bout with a 14-9-2 record and was 28 years old at the time. As for Duran, he was 46 years old.

However, it was not to be a fairytale ending for the underdog.

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Roberto Duran defeated David Radford via unanimous decision

Radford would be able to walk away from the bout with Duran with his head held high, going all eight rounds with the legend.

Speaking on the in-ring experience with Duran, Radford told the BBC, “He knocked me many a times with headshots, but the worst ones was the body shots… I can’t really describe what it is; it just wiped everything out of me.”

However, despite taking punishment from the Panamanian, Radford felt he landed significant shots of his own, too. “I remember knocking his hands back. I’m just thinking to myself, ‘I’ve just rocked Roberto Duran.'”

Radford would go on to have two more fights after his Duran meeting, losing both bouts.