Ray Robinson

Sugar Ray Robinson, one of the greatest boxers of all time, had a professional career that spanned over two decades. During that time, Robinson fought in a total of 200 fights, winning 173 of them, losing 19, drawing 6 times and having 2 no-contests. Out of those 173 victories, he won 109 by KO, which were some of the most iconic knockouts in boxing history. He also won a total of 12 world titles across two weight classes and defended his titles eight times, winning all but one by KO.

Robinson's career began on October 4, 1940, at the age of 19, when he made his professional boxing debut against Joe Echevarria, whom he defeated by a 2nd round TKO. Robinson went on to win 39 consecutive fights after his debut, which included 28 wins via stoppage, showing he was a force to be reckoned with from the start of his career.

Robinson won his first world title fight on December 20, 1946, at the age of 25 after 74 professional fights, against Tommy Bell for the welterweight NBA (vacant) and The Ring titles. Robinson won the 15 round unanimous decision to become the welterweight champion of the world.

Robinson went on to win six world titles across two weight classes. His total title wins were 12, eight of which he won via knockout in title fights. Robinson's most impressive accomplishment was winning the world middlweight title five times which demonstrated his excellence in the sport.

During his career, Robinson had some of the most iconic victories over his competition. He defeated nine Hall-of-Famers, including Carmen Basilio, Gene Fullmer, Bobo Olson, Rocky Graziano, Jake LaMotta, Kid Gavilán, Sammy Angott, Henry Armstrong, and Fritzie Zivic, and Denny Moyer, making him one of the greatest of his generation.

Throughout his professional career, Robinson experienced a total of 19 losses–seven of which were in title bouts and 12 in non-title fights. He suffered his first loss against Jake LaMotta in a 10-round unanimous decision on February 5, 1943, which ended his 40-fight winning streak. He was stopped once, and 18 times he lost via decision, which showcased Robinson's resilience in a game where losing is a norm.

Robinson fought his last professional match on November 10, 1965, a non-title bout against Joey Archer at 44 years of age. Unfortunately, Robinson lost the fight by a 10-round unanimous decision. Robinson retired from professional boxing with a record of 173-19-6, including 109 knockout wins and suffered only one loss via KO.

Robinson's career was full of incredible performances, that left a lasting mark in boxing history. Here is a breakdown of some of the most remarkable highlights of Robinson's career:

On January 16, 1942, Robinson showed a remarkable display for the first time in his career. He defeated Fritzie Zivic via 10th round technical knockout, marking his victory over a strong competitor. This was a significant victory that laid the foundation for his future in the sport.

December 20, 1946, Robinson won his first-ever world titles by defeating Tommy Bell via a 15 round unanimous decision. Robinson was now the NBA and The Ring welterweight world champion. This was a significant milestone that cemented his place as an eminent world-class boxer.

In September 23, 1948, Ray Robinson beat Kid Gavilán via 10th round unanimous decision, once again displaying his excellence in the sport. Kid Gavilan was a highly respected boxer, and Robinson's victory over him was impressive.

On July 11, 1949, Robinson successfully defended the NBA and The Ring welterweight titles against Kid Gavilán in a 15 round unanimous decision victory. This victory further solidified Robinson's position as one of the greatest boxers of his generation.

On February 14, 1951, Robinson won the NBA and The Ring middleweight titles from Jake LaMotta, beating him via a 13th round TKO. Robinson's victory against Jake LaMotta was one of his greatest accomplishments in the sport.

One of the most iconic victories of Robinson's career was his overpowering victory against Gene Fullmer on May 1, 1957, winning the NBA and The Ring middleweight titles via a 5th round KO. This victory stunned the boxing world, and Robinson showed his true dominance in that match.

Sugar Ray Robinson lost his first match against Carmen Basilio via a 15 round split decision on September 23, 1957, which was undoubtedly a significant upset for Robinson. Even in defeat, Robinson showcased his ability to keep fighting, which showed why he was among the very best in the sport.

Robinson won the NBA and The Ring middleweight titles from Carmen Basilio on March 25, 1958, beating him via a 15 round split decision. This victory was a testament to Robinson's discipline and determination in the sport of boxing.

On December 3, 1960, Robinson managed to earn a draw against Gene Fullmer in a 15 round split decision, while he was fighting for the NBA middleweight title. Although he didn't win the match, Robinson's performance demonstrated his ability to compete and win in riveting matches.

Robinson lost the title rematch with Gene Fullmer on March 4, 1961, via a 15 round unanimous decision. Despite his loss, Robinson's exhibition of classic boxing technique was worth remembering in this match.

Robinson beat Denny Moyer via a 10th round unanimous decision on October 21, 1961, in his prime during his reign as the middleweight champion. Moyer, who fought valiantly, was no match for the great Sugar Ray Robinson as he dominated throughout the fight.

Sugar Ray Robinson is considered as one of the greatest boxers of all time. His overall record and achievements speak multitudes to the impact he left in the sport of boxing. Robinson will forever be remembered as a true legend of the sport and will go down in history as one of the greatest sportsmen.

Sugar Ray Robinson Fight Record