Thomas “Hitman” Hearns KO 2 Pipino Cuevas. Wins title. August 2, 1980 (This Day In Boxing History)

This Day in Boxing History, August 2, 1980, dubbed “World War II”, this bout was fought between Thomas “Hitman” Hearns and Pipino Cuevas. Cuevas had dominated the Welterweight division for the past 4 years, reigning as champion. Hearns was undefeated, bringing his 28-0 record into the fight.

Hearns defeated Cuevas by TKO in the 2nd round to win his first of 6 titles and went on to win “Fighter of the Year” by Ring Magazine in 1980. After his career had ended, in an interview Hearns was asked what was his greatest moment and his response was “Winning all those titles were great moments for me. But winning the first title was the greatest moment. When I received the belt after that fight, I knew I beat a great man, Pipino Cuevas, a legend.”