Thomas Hearns is considered to be one of the greatest fighters to have ever graced the sport.
Hearns enjoyed a great deal of success throughout the course of his outstanding 29-year professional career, becoming the first fighter to win a world title in five weight classes.
‘The Hitman’ played a key role in one of the sport’s greatest ever eras during the 1980s, where he became a member of ‘The Four Kings’ alongside former rivals Roberto Duran, Marvelous Marvin Hagler and Sugar Ray Leonard.
Whilst the Tennessee-native suffered his fair share of losses during his tenure, he did rack up a number of impressive victories before his retirement in 2006, defeating the likes of Duran, Virgil Hill and legendary Puerto Rican fighter Wilfred Benitez.
Speaking on a social media post, Hearns spoke fondly of former rival Benitez, who he says was the ‘most elusive fighter’ that he ever shared the ring with.
“Dedicated to the most elusive fighter I’ve ever faced! Wilfred Benitez.. his talent far exceeded his fame, in my eyes he is one of the greats and I want to give him his flowers..”
Benitez proved himself to be one of the best fighters of his entire generation, although as Hearns mentioned, he is quite often described as being under-rated by fans and analysts alike.
The Puerto Rican great captured world titles in three weight classes during his career, as well as becoming the youngest world champion in the history of boxing back in 1976 when he defeated Antonio Cervantes to win the WBA light-welterweight title at 17-years-old.
