Roberto Duran was hated after the quit job in Louisiana, but won the WBA 154. lb title two and a half years later from Davey Moore. Then at the age of 37, won the WBC title in a war with Iran Barkley.

Evander Holyfield surprised a lot of people with the rematch win over Riddick Bowe. The win over Mike Tyson was an even bigger surprise. Holyfield was a HUGE betting underdog.

People, including some members of Muhammad Ali's camp, were seriously concerned that Ali would get irreversibly damaged in the ring with George Foreman.

Sugar Ray Robinson was thought of as done when he came back after his failed dancing/singing career, and lost to Ralph Jones. He then win the MW title 3 more times.