Legends of Boxing: Sugar Ray Robinson

When people think of legendary boxers, names like Muhammad Ali, George Foreman, and Joe Frazier come to mind. These fighters set the standard for what boxing is today, inspiring numerous fighters to enter the ring. However, there’s one boxer that not many people know who’s arguably the best pound-for-pound boxer ever: Sugar Ray Robinson (174-19-6).

Robinson was well-versed in the boxing world, fighting a long career. He’s also taken down numerous opponents, putting on instant classics for boxing fans everywhere. Here’s what made the legendary fighter from Detroit stand out in the ring and life.

Sugar Ray Robinson’s Accomplishments And Strengths

Sugar Ray Robinson has won numerous titles during his illustrious career, establishing himself as one of the best. That includes being a World Welterweight Champion, Pennsylvania State middleweight champion, and winning the NYSAC, NBA, and The Ring middleweight titles.

With Robinson’s versatility came a lethal offense. He had lightning-quick footwork and could adjust accordingly during a fight. Add in Robinson’s ability to sniff out his opponent’s weak spots and he could win any fight. It’s what made him dangerous in the ring, for it made him unpredictable.

But perhaps his most memorable aspect was when he brought an actual entourage with him. His crew would accompany him to the ring, showcasing his flashy, braggadocious style. Everyone was welcomed into Robinson’s group, whether it was a beautiful woman, a barber, or even a voice coach.

The Jimmy Doyle Incident

June 24, 1947, will be remembered by many boxing historians as a dark day. It was when Sugar Ray Robinson defeated Jimmy Doyle (42-7-3) to retain his World Welterweight Title. However, there was a darker matter at hand and it involved Doyle. It’s one that even Robinson had a harrowing nightmare about.

The Los Angeles native took a brutal left hook from Robinson in the eighth round. That left Doyle staggering, with him unable to compete. That left his handlers to plea for the match to end, which happened. However, that wasn’t the end of the saga.

Doyle died from injuries sustained from that fight, with charges threatened for manslaughter against Robinson. But nothing came to fruition, and Robinson gave Doyle’s mother earnings from his next four fights to buy a house.

Overall, it was a black mark on Sugar Ray Robinson’s career, leaving fans to wonder if he was too brutal. With Doyle’s death came speculation that the Detroit native was too reckless and brutal in the ring. However, Robinson continued with his career, compiling wins and titles.

Life For Sugar Ray Robinson After Boxing

Sugar Ray Robinson dabbled in numerous ventures after his boxing career. That included being an entertainer and opening his own restaurant. His eatery served many notable patrons, including Frank Sinatra, Jackie Gleason, and Nat King Cole.

However, financial problems also marred the legendary boxer after his career. He stated in 1965 that he was broke, having spent his entire earnings from in and out of the ring. Robinson died from heart disease on April 12, 1989, at the age of 67 in Los Angeles.

Overall, Robinson will be remembered for his flamboyant style and larger-than-life personality. The Detroit native had a charismatic flair, making Robinson likable to numerous fans. It’s no wonder Robinson will be remembered as arguably the best pound-for-pound boxer of all time.