Sugar Ray Leonard

Sugar Ray Leonard (born 1956) is an American former boxer. He was one of the leading boxers in the world in the 1970s and 1980s, winning world titles at multiple weights and triumphing in contests with such celebrated opponents as Thomas Hearns, Roberto Duran and Marvin Hagler. Born Ray Charles Leonard, named for the singing legend Ray Charles, Leonard later adopted the nickname used by Sugar Ray Robinson.

Déjà-Vu?

Leonard then retired, but true to his fashion, came back in 1991, to try his fortune with world junior middleweight champion Terry Norris at the Madison Square Garden, Leonard's first outing there. Leonard suffered two knockdowns but lasted the distance and was respectful in defeat.

Related Topics:
1991 - Terry Norris - Madison Square Garden

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Ahead were very difficult times: after the fight, Leonard admitted to a stint with cocaine that lasted from 1984 to 1989. He fell victim to the drug, and reports surfaced of violence against his wife Juanita. Leonard admitted that his problems were caused by a need to be involved in the sport of boxing during the periods he was away from it, and immaturity. He kicked his habit for good after 1989.

Related Topics:
Cocaine - 1984 - 1989 - Boxing

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He and Juanita later divorced, and Leonard tried to embark on another comeback. This time, his opponent, Hector 'Macho' Camacho was too fast and powerful for him. Camacho beat Leonard to a bloody pulp and knocked him out in the 5th round. For Leonard, it was finally enough, and he has not fought since.

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Leonard is now the head of a budding boxing promotion company that includes the likes of Camacho's son, 'Macho' Camacho Jr., world cruiserweight champion Vassiliy Jirov and former world middleweight champion James Toney.

Related Topics:
Boxing - 'Macho' Camacho Jr. - Vassiliy Jirov - James Toney

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He is a member of the International Boxing Hall Of Fame. He is now involved in the TV reality series on boxing The Contender. He along with Sylvester Stallone serves as host and boxing mentor to the aspiring fighters.

Related Topics:
International Boxing Hall Of Fame - The Contender - Sylvester Stallone

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