Sugar Ray Leonard
Sugar Ray Leonard is an American former professional boxer and Olympic gold medallist.
Sugar Ray Leonard is an American former professional boxer and Olympic gold medallist, born Ray Charles Leonard in 1956. He won world titles in five weight classes and retired with a professional record of 36 wins, 3 losses and 1 draw. Leonard is widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of all time and won his Olympic gold medal at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal.
Early life and amateur career
Ray Charles Leonard was born in Wilmington, North Carolina, on May 17, 1956. Before turning professional, he won a gold medal in the light-welterweight division at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal.
Professional boxing career
Leonard turned professional in 1976 and became known for his speed, technique and ring intelligence. He competed professionally until 1997 and won world championships in five weight classes, becoming one of the most celebrated fighters of his era.
Major fights and achievements
His career included landmark bouts against top opponents such as Thomas Hearns, Roberto Durán and Marvin Hagler. He also held the undisputed welterweight championship and earned recognition as one of boxing’s all-time greats. His professional record stands at 36 wins (25 by knockout), 3 losses and 1 draw.
Later life and legacy
Leonard retired from boxing in 1997 and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame the same year. He remains a prominent figure in boxing history and popular sports culture.
Key facts
- Leonard competed professionally from 1976 to 1997.
- He won Olympic gold in the light-welterweight division at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal.
- He won world titles in five different weight classes.
- He retired with a record of 36-3-1, including 25 knockouts.
- He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1997.
Leonard won his Olympic gold medal at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, making him directly relevant to Canadian Olympic history.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Sugar Ray Leonard?
What is Sugar Ray Leonard’s real name?
When was Sugar Ray Leonard born?
How many world titles did Sugar Ray Leonard win?
What was Sugar Ray Leonard’s professional record?
Did Sugar Ray Leonard win Olympic gold?
References
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sugar_Ray_LeonardSupports: Birth name, birth date, professional career span, five-weight world titles, lineal championships, and undisputed welterweight championship.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Sugar-Ray-LeonardSupports: Birth date and place, Olympic gold medal in Montreal, professional record, and Hall of Fame induction.
- NCpedia — https://www.ncpedia.org/biography/leonard-sugar-raySupports: Birth name, birthplace, and naming origin.
- Biography.com — https://www.biography.com/athletes/sugar-ray-leonardSupports: Olympic gold medal, professional record, and notable fight with Marvin Hagler.