Childhood and Education Journey of Sugar Ray Leonard in Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Sugar Ray Leonard, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Sugar Ray Leonard, an American former professional boxer (1977-1997), is considered one of boxing's all-time greats. He secured world titles in five weight classes, lineal championships in three, and the undisputed welterweight title. A key figure in the 'Four Kings' rivalry of the 1980s, alongside Roberto Durán, Thomas Hearns, and Marvin Hagler, Leonard uniquely defeated all three. His accomplishments also include a light welterweight gold medal at the 1976 Summer Olympics.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

May 17, 1956: Sugar Ray Leonard's Birth

On May 17, 1956, Ray Charles Leonard, later known as Sugar Ray Leonard, was born. He would become a renowned American professional boxer.

Others born on this day/year

1969: Started Boxing

In 1969, Ray Leonard began his boxing journey at the Palmer Park Recreation Center, influenced by his older brother Roger.

1973: Pregnancy Announcement

In the summer of 1973, Juanita Wilkinson, Leonard's high school girlfriend, told him she was pregnant. They decided to have the baby and named him Ray Charles Leonard Jr.

January 1980: Marriage to Juanita Wilkinson

In January 1980, Sugar Ray Leonard married his high school sweetheart, Juanita Wilkinson.

May 9, 1982: Retina Surgery

On May 9, 1982, Leonard underwent surgery to repair a detached retina, leading to the cancellation of his scheduled fight.

November 9, 1982: First Retirement Announcement

On November 9, 1982, Sugar Ray Leonard announced his retirement at a charity event in Baltimore, Maryland, citing a desire to stop boxing despite his eye being fully healed.

1982: Retirement and Start of Medication Use

In 1982, after surgery to repair a detached retina, Sugar Ray Leonard retired and began using medication, eventually turning to cocaine as a substitute for the arena.

December 1983: Comeback Announcement

In December 1983, Sugar Ray Leonard announced his return to boxing, sparking criticism due to concerns about his surgically repaired eye.

February 25, 1984: Fight Postponed Due to Eye Surgery

On February 25, 1984, a bout with Kevin Howard was postponed when Leonard had minor surgery on his right eye, fueling opposition to his comeback.

May 11, 1984: Fight Against Kevin Howard

On May 11, 1984, Leonard fought Kevin Howard in Worcester, Massachusetts, getting knocked down for the first time in his professional career but ultimately winning. He then announced his retirement again.

1984: Birth of Second Son

In 1984, Sugar Ray Leonard and Juanita Wilkinson had their second son.

May 1, 1986: Leonard Announces Comeback Fight Against Hagler

On May 1, 1986, Sugar Ray Leonard announced on a Washington, D.C. talk show his return to the ring to fight Marvin Hagler, generating excitement and controversy due to his inactivity and eye injuries.

1986: Quitting Drug Use

In early 1986, Sugar Ray Leonard quit using drugs after a concerning self-reflection, acknowledging the pain and scars he had caused.

1989: Introduction to Bernadette Robi

In 1989, Sugar Ray Leonard was introduced to Bernadette Robi by Kenny G at a Luther Vandross concert.

1990: Divorce from Juanita Wilkinson

In 1990, Sugar Ray Leonard and Juanita Wilkinson divorced. During the proceedings, Juanita testified to physical abuse and occasional cocaine use by Leonard.

August 1993: Marriage to Bernadette Robi

In August 1993, Sugar Ray Leonard married Bernadette Robi at his estate in Pacific Palisades, California.

1997: End of Professional Boxing Career

In 1997, Sugar Ray Leonard's professional boxing career came to an end.

July 2006: Abstinence from Alcohol

Since July 2006, Sugar Ray Leonard has been free of alcohol.

2007: Awarded The Ambassador Award of Excellence

In 2007, Sugar Ray Leonard received The Ambassador Award of Excellence from the LA Sports & Entertainment Commission at the Riviera Country Club, recognizing his ongoing community involvement.

June 2011: Autobiography reveals sexual abuse

In June 2011, Leonard's autobiography, The Big Fight: My Life in and out of the Ring, was published, revealing he was a victim of sexual abuse as a young boxer. Since then, he has made public appearances to raise awareness about child sex abuse.