Basic Information About Sugar Ray Robinson
| Category | Athletes › Boxers |
|---|---|
| Professions | Professional Boxer |
| Net worth | $500,000 |
| Date of birth | 1921-05-03 |
| Place of birth | Detroit |
| Date of death | 1989-04-12 (aged 67) |
| Nationality | United States of America |
| Gender | Male |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (1.8 m) |
| Social Media | ↗︎ Wikipedia |
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Sugar Ray Robinson: The Unforgettable Boxing Legend
When it comes to the world of boxing, there are few names that resonate as deeply as Sugar Ray Robinson. Born Walker Smith Jr. on May 3, 1921, in Ailey, Georgia, he would go on to become an iconic figure in the sport, leaving a lasting legacy that still reverberates today. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating details of his net worth, his biography, and the incredible achievements that cemented his status as one of the greatest boxers of all time.
Net Worth Details
Sugar Ray Robinson, throughout his career, amassed great wealth and was once on top of the world. At the time of his death, he had a net worth of $500,000, a significant amount for that era. Considering his accomplishments and the fame he achieved, one might assume his net worth would have been much higher. However, during his later years, Robinson encountered financial struggles that ultimately affected his overall wealth.
His journey to stardom, from humble beginnings to becoming a renowned athlete, is nothing short of extraordinary.
Biography
What is Sugar Ray Robinson known for? Much like his contemporaries Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson, Sugar Ray Robinson’s name has become synonymous with dominance in the boxing ring. Robinson started his career as an amateur boxer, quickly building an astonishing record that included 85 wins, most of them by knockout.
Born into a working-class family, Robinson and his two siblings were raised in Ailey, Georgia. After his parents’ separation, the family relocated to Harlem, New York. It was in Harlem where Robinson’s boxing journey truly began. Winning his first Golden Gloves championships in 194, he caught the attention of boxing enthusiasts and peers alike.
Despite dropping out of high school in grade nine to dedicate himself fully to the sport, Robinson’s talent was undeniable. In 194, he turned professional and embarked on a meteoric rise that would leave an indelible mark in the annals of boxing history.
Early Life and Education
Raised alongside his siblings by a corn farmer, Robinson’s family struggled financially. To help make ends meet, his father became a construction worker, while Robinson himself took odd jobs as a cement mixer and sewer worker. Life took a turn for Robinson when his parents split, and he moved to Harlem with his mother.
In Harlem, Robinson discovered his passion for boxing. Dropping out of high school, he decided to pursue his dreams as a fighter. In order to compete in a boxing tournament where he was underage, Robinson borrowed his friend’s birth certificate. This simple act would define him for the rest of his life. When a female audience member remarked that “Ray Robinson is sweet as sugar,” Walker became known as “Sugar Ray” Robinson.
Despite the hurdles he faced growing up, Robinson’s dedication to his craft was evident even during his early years.
Career
In 194, Sugar Ray Robinson turned pro, instantly displaying his remarkable talent by defeating revered opponents like Jake LaMotta and Sammy Angott. His skills proved to be unmatched, propelling him into the limelight.
Robinson’s boxing career experienced highs and lows, but through it all, he remained tenacious. Joining the U.S. Army in 1943, he continued to compete as a soldier. After being honorably discharged following an accident, he resumed his professional career with incredible determination.
Robinson’s defining moment arrived in 1946 when he became the welterweight champion, defeating Tommy Bell. This victory established him as a force to be reckoned with in the boxing world. However, it was his generosity in and out of the ring that truly set him apart.
Known for his compassion and genuine concern for others, Robinson once donated his entire purse to cancer research after successfully defending his welterweight title against Charley Fusari. He also went on to purchase a house for the mother of Jimmy Doyle, a boxer he inadvertently killed in the ring.
Sugar Ray’s journey was a roller coaster of triumphs and setbacks, but his resilience remained his most defining quality.
Boxing Style
Robinson’s unique boxing style set him apart from his peers. Renowned for his technical prowess and versatility, he was a master of adapting his tactics within a single match. Robinson’s opponents found themselves constantly second-guessing and struggling to anticipate his every move.
His speed, precision, instinct, and rhythm were lethal weapons inside the ring. Robinson’s seamless combinations and lightning-fast strikes became his trademark attributes, making him a fierce competitor throughout his illustrious career.
Relationships
Robinson’s personal life was filled with joys and challenges. In 1938, he married Marjorie Joseph, but their marriage was eventually annulled. Despite personal turmoil, Robinson’s devotion to in-ring excellence never wavered.
Financial Issues
Towards the end of his life, Robinson faced significant financial struggles. Despite earning immense wealth during his boxing career, various factors contributed to his relatively low net worth at the time of his death. While navigating the entertainment industry following retirement from boxing, Robinson encountered difficulties that impacted his finances. Despite these hardships, his legacy as one of the greatest boxers of all time remains unquestioned.
Entertainment Career
Following retirement from boxing, Sugar Ray Robinson sought to transition into the entertainment industry. However, his endeavors did not unfold as expected. Although he dabbled in acting and attempted to establish himself as a performer, his ventures in this field were met with limited success. Nevertheless, his charm and charisma continued to captivate audiences.
Death
Sugar Ray Robinson passed away, leaving behind an indelible mark on the world of boxing. His legacy lives on through the countless boxers who continue to study and emulate his technique. While his net worth may not have reflected the significance of his achievements, the memories of his triumphs will forever be cherished.
Achievements
Sugar Ray Robinson’s list of accolades is a testament to his unparalleled skills and relentless pursuit of greatness.
- 91-fight unbeaten streak between 1943 and 1951
- World welterweight titleholder for many years
- Five-time divisional world champion
- Considered one of the best pound-for-pound boxers of all time
- Leader in total knockouts
Robinson’s impact on the sport cannot be overstated. His elegance in the ring, combined with his unwavering resilience, forever changed the world of boxing.
While we remember Sugar Ray Robinson as an extraordinary athlete, let us also acknowledge his larger-than-life persona and his ability to inspire generations of boxers to strive for greatness. His contributions to the sport will be cherished for eternity. Sugar Ray Robinson, a true legend of his craft.
