Thomas Duran
Thomas Duran
Thomas Duran is an emerging lens-based artist currently studying studio art at Lamar University. His art draws inspiration from people and architecture encountered throughout daily life, informing and shaping each piece he creates.
Duran and Leonard’s boxing match was more than just a mere boxing match; it was touted as one of the richest prize fights ever seen in history.
Early Life and Education
Thomas struggled to gain acceptance into a Catholic seminary after graduating from College of the Holy Cross, as admission involved passing an intensive test. Although admitted, Thomas eventually decided against priesthood due to its passive approach toward civil rights issues within its ranks.
He attended Yale Law School before becoming a top lawyer at a major firm before taking his seat on the bench. His decisions revealed a strong conservative lean, including a notable dissent in a case that overturned decades of precedent against affirmative action, opinions in major gun control and campaign finance cases and more.
At some point between 2002-2003, the show started to diverge from its source material by featuring more thrilling stories with new characters, which signaled the start of an entire writing staff.
Professional Career
Duran rose quickly through the ranks as a professional boxer, becoming WBA lightweight champion after defeating Ken Buchanan via 13-round TKO victory in June 1972. Since then he successfully defended his crown against Jimmy Robertson, Hector Thompson and future Light Welterweight Champion Guts Ishimatsu – before suffering his first non-title loss in November that year to Esteban De Jesus but quickly rebounding with two victories of his own against De Jesus just weeks later.
Duran moved up a weight class in 1983, defeating Davey Moore to win the vacant WBA Middleweight championship. Unfortunately, his next challenge to Marvin Hagler ended badly – Marvin defeated Duran with brutal force during a 15-round fight that went beyond 13 rounds!
Duran challenged Iran Barkley for the WBC middleweight championship and knocked him out in two rounds. At 37 years old, Duran looked set for retirement but successfully defended against William Joppy to keep his title.
Achievement and Honors
Tom has been teaching Fundamentals of Speech and Introduction to Mass Media classes at Labette Community College since 2002. An exceptional instructor, he recently earned the Distinguished Faculty Award which honors one instructor who contributes significantly towards Labette Community College’s central mission – that of offering quality learning opportunities.
Duran Duran released Notorious in 1986, featuring two top ten hits: “All She Wants Is You” and “I Don’t Want Your Love”. After this album’s release, Cuccurullo left, leaving Duran Duran back at three members again.
The group performed at the Louvre as part of a private fundraising event for Louis XV drawing room restoration, which was filmed and resulted in the concert DVD Arena.
Personal Life
Thomas was a loving husband, father, brother and uncle. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family’s wellbeing; in his free time he enjoyed playing video games. Thomas left behind three cherished children – Cristofer, Charelis and Keidy as well as an adoring grandchild Novaliyah as well as numerous siblings and family members who will miss him deeply.
Duran Duran continued their success despite numerous lineup changes and was the first rock band ever invited to perform at the Louvre in Paris for a fundraiser supporting restoration of a Louis XV drawing room. Drummer Nick Rhodes and singer Simon Le Bon both remained with Duran Duran until its end six years later.
Net Worth
Duran won 28 consecutive fights without suffering a loss, earning the WBA and Ring lightweight titles against Ken Buchanan in an easy one-sided win. He would retain them until their loss to future legend Sugar Ray Leonard via split decision.
South American Eduardo Duran took part in another fight with Leonard, but was knocked down three times during round eight and required medical attention afterward. Duran claimed he said “No Mas” (enough). Unfortunately, however, referee wasn’t convinced.
Duran is well known as both an accomplished boxer and radio personality who hosts his show ‘Elvis Duran and the Morning Show.’ Additionally, he is involved with Rock & Rawhide, an organization which works towards providing better lives for animals who find their way into shelters.