Sugar Ray Robinson

Date of Birth: May 3, 1921

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: April 12, 1989

Biography

Sugar Ray Robinson, born Walker Smith Jr., was an American professional boxer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of all time. Born on May 3, 1921, in Ailey, Georgia, Robinson’s career spanned over 25 years, during which he set numerous records and set the standard for future generations of fighters. He began his professional career in 1940, and by 1951, he had won the world welterweight title and the world middleweight title. Known for his impeccable technique, agility, and power, Robinson’s boxing style was a blend of grace and ferocity. Outside the ring, he was a flamboyant figure, known for his charisma and stylish lifestyle. Robinson retired from boxing in 1965 with a record of 173 wins, 19 losses, 6 draws, and 2 no contests, including 108 wins by knockout. His influence extends beyond boxing, as he was a pioneer in advocating for better conditions and pay for fighters. Sugar Ray Robinson passed away on April 12, 1989, in Los Angeles, California.

5 Interesting Facts about Sugar Ray Robinson

1. Sugar Ray Robinson was the first boxer in history to win a divisional world championship five times.

2. He had a 91-fight unbeaten streak from 1943 to 1951, one of the longest in professional boxing history.

3. Robinson was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.

4. He had a brief career as a dancer and singer, showcasing his talents outside of boxing.

5. Robinson was an early advocate for civil rights and used his fame to support the movement.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Sugar Ray Robinson

1. “To be a champion, you have to believe in yourself when nobody else will.”

2. “Rhythm is everything in boxing. Every move you make starts with your heart, and that’s in rhythm or you’re in trouble.”

3. “You always say ‘I’ll quit when I start to slide’, and then one morning you wake up and realize you’ve done slid.”

4. “Fighting is a sport; if you’re not humble it’s going to bring humbleness to you.”

5. “I’ve always believed that you can think positive just as well as you can think negative.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Sugar Ray Robinson’s net worth was estimated to be around $500,000, which, accounting for inflation, would be several million dollars today.

Children

Sugar Ray Robinson had one son, Ray Robinson Jr., with his second wife, Edna Mae Holly. He also adopted a daughter, Sharon, from his first marriage to Marjorie Joseph.