Sugar Ray Robinson | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : January 27, 2025

Who is Sugar Ray Robinson?

Sugar Ray Robinson, born Walker Smith Jr. on May 3, 1921, is hailed as one of the greatest boxers of all time. With an illustrious career spanning 25 years, he turned professional in 1940 and quickly established himself in the boxing world by winning his first 40 fights, earning the nickname "pound for pound, the best." Robinson is notable for being the first boxer to win a divisional world championship five times. He captured both the world welterweight and middleweight titles, finishing his career in 1965 with an impressive record of 175 victories, including 110 knockouts.

Robinson's journey began in Harlem, where he was introduced to boxing at a local church's gym to avoid the dangers of street life. He adopted the name "Sugar Ray Robinson" to distinguish himself after borrowing another boxer's Amateur Athletic Union card to start his career. His remarkable style and versatility allowed him to transition between weight classes seamlessly, captivating boxing fans and inspiring future legends like Muhammad Ali. Robinson also embraced his celebrity status, famously driving a pink Cadillac around Harlem and owning a nightclub, though his extravagant lifestyle eventually led him to fight longer than necessary to regain financial stability.

Early Life and Education

Sugar Ray Robinson, born Walker Smith Jr. on May 3, 1921, has a debated birthplace, with records indicating Ailey, Georgia, while he himself claimed Detroit, Michigan. As a young boy, Robinson grew up in Detroit, but at the age of 11, his mother decided to move the family to Harlem in search of a better life. The challenges of their new environment, filled with poverty and crime, motivated her to seek a positive influence for her son. It was through the Salem Methodist Episcopal Church that Robinson discovered boxing, an avenue that would eventually lead him toward greatness in the sport.

Robinson quickly embraced boxing after meeting George Gainford, who initiated a boxing club at the church. His entry into the sport was marked by borrowing the Amateur Athletic Union card of another boxer named Ray Robinson, which led him to adopt that name for his own career. By tapping into his neighborly inspiration from heavyweight champion Joe Louis, Robinson's early boxing training proved fruitful. He captured his first Golden Gloves title in the featherweight division in 1939 and successfully defended that title in 1940, showcasing his remarkable talent at a young age.

Professional Career Beginnings

Sugar Ray Robinson, born Walker Smith Jr. on May 3, 1921, made his pro debut in 1940 after an impressive amateur career that included winning Golden Gloves titles. He quickly transformed into a boxing sensation, achieving an unprecedented 40 consecutive victories that left the boxing world in awe. Due to his refusal to cooperate with the mob, which controlled much of the boxing industry, Robinson was nicknamed the "uncrowned champion" as he awaited his shot at the welterweight title. This initial struggle only fueled his determination to succeed in the ring.

In 1946, Robinson's hard work and perseverance finally paid off when he won the world welterweight title by defeating Tommy Bell in a unanimous 15-round decision. He held onto this title until 1951, embodying the essence of a champion as he fought and triumphed against the toughest opponents. His exceptional skills and ability to transition between weight classes earned him the title of "pound for pound, the best," a recognition that endures to this day. Robinson's indelible mark on the sport of boxing began in those early years, laying a foundation that would lead to a legendary career defined by excellence and resilience.

Career Success and Achievements

Sugar Ray Robinson, hailed as one of boxing's greatest talents, began his professional career in 1940, quickly establishing himself with an unprecedented record of 40 consecutive wins. His extraordinary skill set earned him the title of "uncrowned champion" prior to his first official welterweight title bout, which he won in 1946 against Tommy Bell. He dominated the welterweight division, holding the title until 1951. Robinson's prowess extended beyond one weight class; he became the first boxer in history to claim a divisional world championship five times, achieving this remarkable feat by 1958.

Throughout his illustrious 25-year career, Robinson amassed an impressive tally of 175 victories, including 110 knockouts, while suffering only 19 losses. Notably, his ability to transition between weight classes solidified his reputation as "pound for pound, the best" in the sport—a title he earned through both exceptional technique and fierce determination. His impact on boxing was profound, inspiring future legends, including Muhammad Ali, who regarded Robinson as a personal idol. Even decades later, Robinson's legacy remains firmly cemented in the annals of boxing history, with accolades like being named the No. 1 boxer in The Ring magazine's "The 100 Greatest Boxers of All Time."

Outside the Ring: Lifestyle and Career Changes

After establishing himself as one of the greatest boxers of all time, Sugar Ray Robinson embraced his celebrity status with enthusiasm. He was known for driving a pink Cadillac around Harlem, flaunting his wealth, and frequenting his own high-profile nightclub. This lifestyle not only showcased his success in the ring but also drew attention to his extravagant spending habits. Robinson, who accumulated over $4 million during his boxing career, found it challenging to manage his finances effectively, leading him to continue fighting longer than many believed was wise. His vivacious lifestyle reflected a man unapologetic about enjoying the fruits of his labor, yet it would also have lasting implications on his financial stability.

In the years following his retirement from boxing in 1965, Robinson transitioned into the world of show business. His charismatic personality and public appeal opened doors for him in television and entertainment, providing him with a source of income during a time when he needed it most. Settling in Southern California with his second wife, Millie, he effectively blended his role as a father figure to her children along with his own son. His later years in the entertainment industry played a significant role in rescuing him from the financial quagmire caused by his lavish lifestyle and poor financial decisions. Robinson's ability to adapt to life outside the ring demonstrates his resilience and versatility beyond the sport.

Personal Life: Married Life | Wife | Children

Sugar Ray Robinson's personal life was as dynamic as his illustrious boxing career. He was married twice, with his second wife being Millie, whom he settled down with in Southern California after his boxing retirement. Robinson and Millie's relationship allowed him to embrace family life more fully, and together they helped raise her two children from a previous marriage. His charismatic personality and fame brought a vibrant lifestyle, often entertaining friends and family, creating a lively atmosphere in their home.

Robinson also had a son from his first marriage, which added another layer to his family dynamics. He remained involved in his son’s life while also being a father figure to Millie's children. Despite the challenges posed by a demanding career and his later health issues, Robinson found joy in family gatherings and shared experiences with his loved ones. His ability to balance personal life with his boxing legacy made him a multifaceted individual beyond the ring.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary Insights

Sugar Ray Robinson's financial journey is as compelling as his boxing career. Throughout his 25 years in the ring, Robinson reportedly earned over $4 million, a substantial sum for the era. Despite this impressive income, the former champion's lavish lifestyle, fueled by his love for luxury cars, high-profile parties, and an extravagant entourage, led to him depleting his earnings rather quickly. His penchant for spending led him to continue boxing longer than many believed was necessary, demonstrating the pitfalls of fame and fortune in professional sports.

After retiring, Robinson sought to stabilize his finances by exploring opportunities in show business, including television appearances. This shift not only helped him improve his financial situation but also allowed him to adapt to a new life beyond boxing. In his later years, the challenges posed by Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes put pressure on his financial resources, but his early earnings and subsequent endeavors in entertainment provided some stability until his passing.