On the 16th of September in 1981, for the first time in their career, Sugar Ray Leonard and Thomas Hearns shared boxing the ring. Such was the performance exhibited by both boxers that night at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas that it was awarded ‘1981 Fight of the Year’ by the prestigious Ring Magazine. While Ray Leonard entered the ring with a record of 31 wins against 1 loss, Hearns entered the same displaying an unbeaten record comprising 32 wins in pro boxing.

Although Hearns led the scoreboard, in Round 13, Ray Leonard, motivated by his trainer Angelo Dundee entered a different man with the intention to grip fire with his fists. Occupying the center of the ring, Ray Leonard, circled Hearns while staying light on his feet. Fatigued, both the fighters looked for an opportunity. A little swollen down his left eye, Ray Leonard maintained a top guard, and with 1:29 minutes on the clock with a 1-2, he rattled Hearns who subsequently struggled on his feet. Closing in on the distance, like a woodpecker, Leonard then pecked on Hearns, throwing his punches relentlessly.

The boxing world reacts to Sugar Ray Leonard putting a halt on Thomas Hearns following the instructions of Angelo Dundee

As per BoxRec, all three judges Duane Ford, Chuck Minker, and Lou Tabat scored the bout in Hearns’s favor, and going by his performance, it seemed highly possible that ‘the Hitman’ aimed toward registering yet another win. However, at the end of Round 12, Angelo Dundee approached Ray Leonard and informed the latter that he was “blowing it”. “Let’s go Ray. You only got nine minutes. You’re blowing it now son. You’re blowing it. Now, separate the man from the boys. C’mon Ray, you got to be quicker. You got to take it away from him,“ said Dundee. Following Dundee’s words, Ray conquered both Hearns and the ring shortly after.

A user named Graham Crompton believes, “boxing will never be this good ever again”.

Another fan named Safeen had a similar thought. They said, “the good old days of boxing“.

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According to KevRivera, Ray Leonard, who shared a rivalry with Roberto Duran in boxing, is the most complete fighter of all time.

Read More – “Legends Makes You Laugh When Mayweather Thinks He’s The Best”: 42 Years Later, Fans Reminisce “Great” Roberto Duran vs Sugar Ray Leonard Rivalry

Meanwhile, SlotterAintShit spoke about the heart.

Finally, groovy gilbert spoke about loving boxing.

What is your reaction to this iconic moment in the history of boxing? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

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