Sugar Ray Robinson was born Walker Smith on May 21, 1989 in Ailey, Georgia. His family later moved to Detroit, Michigan and began perhaps the most successful amateur career in boxing history. His record is a reported 89-0, although some say he actually lost 2 bouts. He captured 2 golden gloves championships in 1939 and 1940, and it was at that point that he started boxing under the name Sugar Ray Robinson.
Ray turned pro in 1940, moved to New York City, and began what was arguably the greatest professional career ever. He amassed an incredible record of 125-1 to begin his career, and fought for his first championship as a welterweight on December 20, 1946 against Tommy Bell in Madison Square Garden. He won a 15 round unanimous decision to win his first of many titles. It was not long before his skills and greatness earned him the moniker of ‘Pound for Pound’ the best fighter in boxing. Time would do nothing but prove he earned the nickname.
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