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Sugar Ray Robinson: Boxing

Sugar Ray Robinson (born Walker Smith Jr., May 3, 1921 – April 12, 1989) was considered one of the greatest boxers of all time holding the world welterweight title from 1946 – 1951. He was born in Michigan and was dubbed “pound for pound, the best”. By 1958, he became the first-ever boxer to win a divisional world championship five times. As an amateur, he was 85—0, 69 of those were victories that came from knockouts – 40 of those in the first round. By 19 years old, he turned professional in 1940.



Greatest Sporting Achievements

Robinson won the world welterweight title from 1946 to 1951 and won the world middleweight title a couple of years later. He was named “fighter of the year” twice, first for his performances in 1942 and 90 fights later for his efforts in 1951.He had a record of 173—19—6 (2 no contests) with 108 knockouts in 200 professional fights after his retirement. He’s on the top spot of the All-Time Leaders in Knockouts.

Why Was He So Good?

Sugar Ray Robinson was known for his ability to be a champion in different weight classes, causing the boxing fans and writers to dub him “pound for pound, the best”. It was a sentiment that hasn’t faded several years later. Even Muhammad Ali referred to him as “the king, the master, and my idol”.

What You May Not Know

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