Thomas Hearns, a legendary figure in boxing history, is often celebrated for his iconic matches at welterweight and middleweight. However, he has recently highlighted a different aspect of his illustrious career, naming his encounter with one of the sport’s finest technicians as his greatest challenge.
Over an impressive 29-year career, Hearns competed in 67 bouts, securing world titles across five weight classes: welterweight, super-welterweight, middleweight, light-heavyweight, and cruiserweight. His legendary clashes with Sugar Ray Leonard and Marvin Hagler remain etched in the annals of boxing, while his knockouts of stars like Pipino Cuevas and Roberto Durán have garnered infamy for their sheer intensity and skill.
In a recent interview with Ring magazine, Hearns reflected on who he believes was the superior opponent he faced throughout his career. Though many would instinctively think of Leonard or Hagler, Hearns surprised fans by naming Puerto Rican boxer Wilfred Benitez as his toughest rival.
“Wilfred Benitez was very good … slick and very crafty … He moved well and fought all around the ring,” Hearns stated. His assessment underscores the complexity and skill that Benitez brought to the ring during their super-welterweight encounter in December 1982.
In that memorable match at the New Orleans Superdome, Hearns not only showcased his punching prowess but also his boxing acumen, revealing his tactical side by opting to outbox the seasoned Benitez. His manager and trainer, Emanuel Steward, recalled, “Thomas outboxed the boxer,” emphasizing the skillful strategy Hearns employed that night.
Interestingly, Hearns later disclosed that he had injured his right hand during the bout, which forced him to adjust his strategy in the latter rounds. Despite this setback, Hearns remains undeterred, soon turning his focus to the middleweight division and the much-anticipated clash against Marvelous Marvin Hagler.
Hearns’ reflections highlight the respect he has for his fellow athletes and the intricate layers of competition that make boxing a deeply challenging sport. As he continues to inspire a new generation of fighters, his career serves as a testament to the importance of skill and adaptability in the ring.