Photograph by Manny Millan

"So there is obviously still some hunger, still a bit more for him to accomplish. Then we shall see if he can turn around and walk away, throwing one last wink back at where he has been the very best. Whatever, anyway, Ray Leonard will never work an undercard."

Text by Frank Deford
Issue Date: December 28, 1981

When he knocked out Thomas Hearns in the 14th round of their September 1981 title-unification fight in Atlantic City, Sugar Ray Leonard became the undisputed welterweight champion of the world. Leonard, with all his charisma and hubris, filled the void created in boxing when Muhammad Ali retired from competition earlier in the year.

Sugar Ray Leonard Sports Illustrated Covers Gallery