Marlon Starling

Marlon Starling, born August 29, 1959, in Hartford, Connecticut, was an American professional boxer who dominated the welterweight division during his 11-year career. Known as the "Magic Man," Starling's unique fighting style, featuring a high guard, made him a formidable opponent.

Starling's journey in boxing began with the help of his coach, Johnny Duke, who guided him to the national Junior Olympics championship. Turning professional in 1979, Starling won 25 fights before suffering his first defeat, a 12-round split-decision loss to Donald Curry in 1982.

In 1984, Starling faced Curry again, this time challenging for the WBA and IBF welterweight titles. Despite a valiant effort, Starling lost the 15-round decision. Undeterred, he continued his pursuit of a world title.

Starling's perseverance paid off in 1987 when he knocked out Mark Breland in the 11th round to capture the WBA welterweight title. However, his reign was short-lived, as he lost the title controversially to Tomas Molinares in his third defence. Molinares landed a punch simultaneously with the bell ending round six, causing Starling to go down for the only time in his career. Although the decision was later changed to a no-contest, Molinares kept the title.

The "Magic Man" regained his status as a world champion in 1989 by knocking out Lloyd Honeyghan to win the WBC welterweight title. Starling's ambition led him to challenge Michael Nunn for the IBF middleweight title in 1990, but he came up short, losing by decision. In his final fight, Starling lost his welterweight title in a close decision to Maurice Blocker.

Marlon Starling displayed a unique fighting style, skill, and determination throughout his career. He retired with an impressive record of 45 wins, six losses, one draw, and one no contest, with 27 of his victories coming by way of knockout. Although he may not be as widely recognised as some of his contemporaries, Starling's contributions to the welterweight division and his memorable fights have earned him a place in boxing history.