Thomas Hearns

The Hitman — five-division world champion whose right hand was considered the most powerful single punch in boxing history.

Thomas Hearns was born in Memphis, Tennessee in 1958 and became one of the hardest punchers in boxing history — the Motor City Cobra, the Hitman — compiling a professional record of 61 wins (48 by knockout — 74% KO rate), 5 losses and 1 draw across a career spanning 1977 to 2000. He won world titles in five weight divisions — welterweight, super welterweight, light middleweight, middleweight and light heavyweight — with knockout power that was extraordinary across all of them. His 6ft 1in frame and 78-inch reach gave him dimensions unusual at welterweight. His 1980 WBA welterweight title — won by stopping Pipino Cuevas in 2 rounds — launched his era. His 1981 fight with Sugar Ray Leonard was settled in the 14th round when Leonard rallied to stop him after Hearns had dominated; his 1985 fight with Marvin Hagler — the War — produced the greatest first round in boxing history before he was stopped in 3. He beat Roberto Durán in 1984 and Ivan Drago prototype Iran Barkley in 1988. He was Ring Magazine Fighter of the Year in 1980 and 1984. He continued fighting until 55 years old — winning his last competitive bout at 50. He remains the benchmark of knockout power at lower weight classes.

Aggressive puncher with exceptional first-round knockout ability

One of boxing's greatest knockout artists and multi-division champions

• World Champion in 5 weight divisions
• Ring Magazine Fighter of Year 1980, 1984
• The Hitman nickname from 1st round KO power
• WBA Welterweight Champion 1980–1981
• WBC Super Welterweight Champion 1982–1986