A Leonard-Hagler Fight Probe Finds No Wrongdoing

LAS VEGAS —  A monthlong criminal investigation turned up no evidence to support allegations that a professional gambler influenced the judging of the Sugar Ray Leonard-Marvelous Marvin Hagler fight, a Nevada state official said Friday.

Deputy Atty. Gen. John Redlein said no evidence was found that gambler Billy Baxter conspired to get judge Dave Moretti to score the fight in favor of Leonard.

Redlein issued a press release with the findings of his investigators and told a meeting of the Nevada State Athletic Commission that no other statement would be made on the probe.

“This office is not going to make any other public comment,” said Redlein.

Commission Chairman Duane Ford, however, said he was angered by the fact that there had to be an investigation at all. He said the probe was based on unsubstantiated rumors.

“It is unfortunate, and it angers me that one of our officials has been maligned as he has,” said Ford, who called the allegations “malicious rumors.”

Redlein told the commission he would not reveal who made the allegations, although the press release said the probe was prompted by a report made to Ford by Bob Arum, who promoted the Hagler-Leonard fight.

Leonard won the April 6 fight on a split decision. Moretti favored Leonard, 115-113, in the fight while judge JoJo Guerra had Leonard winning, 118-110. The third judge, Lou Fillippo, had Hagler ahead, 115-113.

The probe centered on allegations that Moretti had discussed going into business with Billy Baxter, a high-stakes gambler, poker player and fight manager. It was also alleged that Baxter made a bet of $300,000 on Leonard in the fight.