Sonny Liston

Sonny Liston was one of the most feared and dominant heavyweight boxers of his time. Although his career was marred with controversy and speculation, his in-ring performances were undeniably impressive. Over 20 years of professional boxing, he fought a total of 54 times, winning 50 of them with 39 of those wins coming by way of knockout. In this article, we will take a closer look at the incredible career of Sonny Liston.

From his early days, Sonny Liston showed great promise as a boxer. He made his professional debut at the age of 21 against Don Smith in September 1953, winning via 1st round TKO. He went on to win his next six fights, including one via stoppage, before suffering his first professional loss to Marty Marshall.

Despite this loss, Liston continued to fight and establish himself as one of the best in his division. He earned his first shot at a world title on September 25, 1962, against the then-heavyweight champion Floyd Patterson. Liston made quick work of Patterson, knocking him out in the first round to become the new NYSAC, WBA, and The Ring heavyweight champion of the world.

However, controversy surrounded Liston's victory over Patterson, with many accusing him of throwing the fight. This, combined with his past criminal convictions, led to Liston's reputation being tarnished, and he struggled to gain the respect of the boxing community.

Despite this, Liston continued to fight and dominate his opponents. He went on to win three world titles at heavyweight and became the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world. Some of his most notable victories include wins over Hall-of-Famer Floyd Patterson, Cleveland Williams, Amos Lincoln, George Johnson, Billy Joiner, Sonny Moore, and Willis Earls.

Liston's career was not without defeat, however. He suffered his first professional loss against Marty Marshall via 8th round split-decision in September 1954. He was stopped three times and lost once via decision, which colored his career in some people's view.

Despite his dominance in the ring, Liston was constantly dogged by rumors and criticism. He struggled to gain the respect and recognition he deserved as one of the greatest boxers of all time. His controversial past and rumored connections to organized crime followed him throughout his career and beyond.

Despite the challenges he faced, Sonny Liston was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame (IBHOF) in 1991, nearly 21 years after his untimely death. He remains one of the most dominant and feared heavyweight boxers of all time, with a career that speaks for itself.

Sonny Liston's legacy in the boxing world is one of both greatness and controversy. While his reputation was often unfairly maligned, his in-ring performance is undeniable. He remains one of the most dominant heavyweight boxers of all time, with a record to back up his reputation.

It is hard to imagine what heights Liston's career might have reached had he not been hampered by outside interference and controversy. But despite the challenges he faced, he remains an iconic figure in the boxing world, with a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations for years to come.

Sonny Liston Fight Record