Tommy Hearns, a key player in one of boxing's greatest eras, has named Sugar Ray Leonard as the fighter with the best skills among their legendary group.
Hearns, known as the "Hitman," started his pro career in 1977 and quickly made his mark. He became the first boxer to win world titles in five different weight divisions, a feat that put him in the history books.
The fighter from Detroit was part of a group called the "Four Kings," which included Sugar Ray Leonard, Roberto Duran, and Marvin Hagler. These four men dominated boxing in their era, creating some of the sport's most memorable moments.
When asked about his rivals, Hearns didn't hesitate to give credit where it's due. He said, "Best boxing skills? Leonard. Hands down."
Hearns and Leonard faced each other twice in the ring. Their first encounter in September 1981 at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, was for the undisputed welterweight championship. Leonard won that fight by TKO in the 14th round.
Their second match, about a decade later, ended in a split decision draw for the WBC super-middleweight title. Both fighters claimed they should've won, but the judges couldn't separate them. There were talks of a third fight, but it never happened.
Before his battles with Leonard, Hearns had already made a name for himself. In 1982, he won the WBC world light-middleweight title in New Orleans. He beat Wilfred Benitez in a fifteen-round thriller that went to a majority decision.
Hearns' career spanned decades and weight classes. He fought the best of the best and left an indelible mark on the sport. His recent comments about Leonard show the respect these great fighters had for each other, even years after their last bouts.
The era of the "Four Kings" remains a golden period in boxing history. Hearns' insights give fans a glimpse into the mindset of these legendary fighters and the skills they brought to the ring.
