Sugar Ray Robinson: The Greatest Pound-for-Pound Boxer of All Time

Sugar Ray Robinson: The legend of boxing

Sugar Ray Robinson, born Walker Smith Jr. on May 3, 1921, was an American professional boxer who competed from 1940 to 1965. He is widely regarded as the greatest pound-for-pound boxer of all time.
Robinson was born in Detroit, Michigan, and began boxing at an early age. He turned professional in 1940 and quickly rose through the ranks, winning the welterweight title in 1946. He would go on to win the middleweight title in 1951 and the light heavyweight title in 1952.
Robinson was a master of the ring, with a combination of speed, power, and ring generalship that was unmatched in his era. He was also a prolific fighter, often fighting multiple times per year. He retired in 1965 with a record of 173-19-6, with 108 knockouts.
Robinson was inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990. He is also a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame and the World Boxing Hall of Fame.

Early life and career

Robinson was born in Detroit, Michigan, and grew up in Harlem, New York City. He began boxing at an early age and turned professional in 1940. He won his first 40 fights, including 26 by knockout. In 1946, he won the world welterweight championship by defeating Tommy Bell. He defended the title successfully 19 times before losing it to Randy Turpin in 1951.

Robinson's legacy

Sugar Ray Robinson is considered by many to be the greatest pound-for-pound boxer of all time. He was a five-division world champion, and he held the welterweight title for a record five years. Robinson was also a master of the ring, with a combination of speed, power, and ring generalship that was unmatched in his era.
Robinson's legacy extends beyond the boxing ring. He was a pioneer for African-American athletes, and he helped to break down racial barriers in the sport of boxing. Robinson was also a popular figure outside of the ring, and he was known for his flamboyant personality and his love of the nightlife.
Sugar Ray Robinson died on April 12, 1989, at the age of 67. He was a true legend of the sport of boxing, and his legacy will continue to inspire fighters for generations to come.

Some of Robinson's most famous fights:

• Sugar Ray Robinson vs. Jake LaMotta: Robinson and LaMotta fought six times between 1943 and 1951. Their rivalry is considered one of the greatest in boxing history.

• Sugar Ray Robinson vs. Carmen Basilio: Robinson and Basilio fought twice in 1958. Their first fight was a close decision win for Robinson, while their second fight was a more decisive victory for Robinson.

• Sugar Ray Robinson vs. Gene Fullmer: Robinson and Fullmer fought twice in 1957. Their first fight was a draw, while their second fight was a close decision win for Robinson.

Robinson's impact on boxing:

Sugar Ray Robinson had a major impact on boxing. He was one of the most popular fighters of his era and helped to popularize the sport. Robinson was also a pioneer for African-American boxers, breaking down barriers and helping to pave the way for future generations of fighters.

Sugar Ray Robinson's death:

Sugar Ray Robinson died on April 12, 1989, at the age of 67. He had been suffering from Alzheimer's disease for several years. Robinson's death was a major loss for the boxing world. He was a true legend and will be remembered as one of the greatest fighters of all time.