Thomas Hearns believes there is one former rival who simply ‘had his number.’
Hearns is widely considered to be one of the greatest fighters of all time by fans and analysts, proving his credentials throughout the course of his decorated 29-year professional career.
The Tennessee-native became the first fighter in the history of the sport to win world titles in four weight classes, a feat he achieved back in March of 1987 when he defeated Dennis Andries to capture the WBC light-heavyweight title in Detroit.
He rose to prominence during the 1980s where he would become a member of the iconic ‘Four Kings’ alongside former rivals Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard and Marvelous Marvin Hagler.
Speaking to the Express And Star, Hearns spoke fondly of countryman Iran Barkley, as he claims the three-weight world champion ‘had his number’.
“Barkley seemed to have my number and dined out forever on being the only man to do the double over me. I still don’t know how he did it.”
Barkley defeated Hearns twice within the space of four years, beating his countryman via 3rd round stoppage in their first encounter to capture the WBC world middleweight title in June of 1988.
‘The Blade’ defeated Hearns once again in their rematch in March of 1992 to capture the WBA light-heavyweight title, defeating ‘The Hitman’ via split decision at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.
Barkley was a three-weight world champion who boxed from 1982 to 1999, ending with a record of 43 wins (27 by KO), 19 losses, and 1 draw.
