Ep 11. No Mas (Eric Drath)

No Mas is the 11th episode of the second season of ESPN's critically acclaimed documentary series, 30 For 30. Directed by Eric Drath, the episode delves into one of the most controversial moments in the history of boxing – the second fight between Sugar Ray Leonard and Roberto Duran in 1980, famously known as "No Mas".

The episode offers an in-depth analysis of the events leading up to the fight and the ensuing fallout after Duran infamously quit in the middle of the eighth round, uttering "no mas" ( Spanish for "no more"). It explores the complex dynamic between Leonard, who was perceived as a more marketable and popular boxer, and Duran, a fiercely proud fighter from Panama.

It traces the origins of the rivalry between the two boxers, which began in June 1980 when Duran defeated Leonard in a close and highly charged bout, stripping him of the WBC welterweight title. It was a stunning upset that left Leonard reeling and shattered his aura of invincibility. The rematch was scheduled for November of the same year, with both boxers eager to prove their dominance.

The documentary presents a vivid picture of the political and cultural context of the fight. 1980 was a time of great upheaval in Latin America, with many countries in the region grappling with oppressive regimes and social unrest. Duran's prominence as a boxer and his reputation as a proud and defiant Panamanian made him a symbol of resistance against American hegemony.

The episode also explores Duran's personal life, particularly his relationship with his trainer and mentor, Ray Arcel. It reveals the close bond between the two men and the impact that Arcel's death had on Duran's psyche in the run-up to the rematch. Drath also sheds some light on Duran's struggles with weight loss and his penchant for partying, which may have affected his preparation for the fight.

The fight itself is the centerpiece of the documentary, with Drath using archival footage and interviews with key players to recreate the tension and drama of the bout. He presents a balanced view of the fight, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of both boxers. He also provides a detailed analysis of the moment when Duran uttered the now-famous words "no mas", examining the different accounts of what happened and the various theories about what motivated Duran to quit.

The aftermath of the fight is also explored in No Mas. Drath examines the reaction of the boxing world and the media to Duran's decision to quit, with many commentators questioning his courage and toughness. He also highlights the impact of the fight on both boxers' careers, with Leonard going on to greater heights and Duran struggling to regain his form.

Overall, No Mas is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that uses one of boxing's most iconic moments to explore wider themes about nationalism, identity, and the personal toll of professional sports. It offers a nuanced and insightful look at one of the most complex and controversial fights in boxing history and is a must-watch for sports fans and anyone interested in the intersection of sports and culture.