Thomas Hearns Captures Super Welterweight Crown – December 3, 1982 (This Day In Boxing History)

Thirty-nine years ago, Thomas Hearns showed he can do more for boxing.

Hearns (then 35-1) defeated Wilfred Benitez (then 44-1-1) by majority decision to capture the WBC super welterweight title.

In the fourth round, Hearns had a point deducted for pulling Benitez’s head down.

Benitez was knocked down in the fifth round after being hit on the chin with a right hand from Hearns.

In the ninth round, seemed to connect with a left hand, but it missed by several inches, but Hearns stumbled and fell after Benitez stepped on him. The referee ruled it a knockdown.

Judges scored the fight, 146-137, 144-139 Hearns and 142-142.

Hearns was known for his slender build, oversized arms and punching power. He became the first boxer in history to win world titles in five weight divisions: welterweight, light middleweight, middleweight, super middleweight and light heavyweight.