Originally posted by Kadesh
Now i will, for one you cant even debate
Really, you of all people have no room to talk.
theres also the fact that he underestimated lukes abilities
I'd love to see your proof for that, considering:
"Vader watched Luke. His boy was powerful, stronger than he'd imagined.
Vader was impressed with Luke's speed. Pleased, even." (Return of the Jedi, Ch. 7-8).
Where does it say that he 'underestimated Luke's abilities'? You should also realize that those quotes come from the very beginnings of the duel itself.
There's also the fact he couldn't contend with the flurry of strikes Luke was putting up, and by that point, there would be no reason for him to not try his best to defend (and indeed, he did). Of course, I'm not saying that Vader isn't more powerful, but it's an indication that his saber skills are severely lacking.
Actually he did
No, he pulled an Obi-Wan, that's no 'defeat', it's bullshit. Darth Maul had him on all fours, at his mercy, and was proving he's the better fighter throughout the entire duel (even before using dual blades, he sliced Vader's stomach, kicked his sorry mechanic ass with melee attacks, and it's obvious Maul was better):
He [Vader] didn't beat him outright, and he certainly didn't come close to it in the least bit.
Ding vader > maul
Vice versa rather, the '>' sign would mean that Darth Vader is greater than Darth Maul, when in actuality, Darth Maul was the better, and more skilled fighter.
The mere fact that Vader had to go to lengths to kill Darth Maul, and commit seppuku to win detracts from your point. If he was substantially greater than whatever version of Maul we see, then it can be assumed he wouldn't of had to put his own life in such danger. Since he did, he isn't. Indeed, the entire comic just shows Maul is the superior combatant in terms of dueling ability, while your post insinuates otherwise.
Of course, it's not even the real Darth Maul, anyways.