When boxing fans hear the last name Hearns, they immediately think of Thomas “The Hitman.” A sixth division champion and one of the best-known fighters of all time who also coincidentally was a part of some of the most memorable fights in history. Thomas’ son Ronald, also a world-class fighter, seeks to step out of his father’s shadow and make his own story.
Born and raised in Michigan, boxing was in his blood. However, Ronald’s career got off to a late start because that was the way his father wanted it. Ronald is now making up for lost time and proving that he will one day be a champion.
Ronald currently has a perfect record of 21-0 with 17 knockout wins. His next fight will take place in Miami, Oklahoma on March 28, and he will feature on Showtime World Championship Boxing. Harry Joe Yorgey, also undefeated, will be the next hurdle for the motivated Hearns.
When your dad is an icon in sports, there’s no doubt it’ll be hard to step out of his shadow and make his own mark on “the sweet science.” Ronald Hearns has all the tools in the world to do just that. The former guard for the American University basketball team is a truly superior athlete. Starting late in one of the most grueling sports in the world is one thing, but being perfect in 21 fights is another.
Hearns has very solid hand speed and excellent footwork. The attribute that makes him the most dangerous is his intelligence in the ring. “The Chosen One” is a very cerebral fighter and uses that to know what his opponent is thinking before it happens. Frustration sets in and Hearns attacks and goes for the kill. The mental aspect of the fight game is what will separate Ronald on his way to a title in the 154-pound weight division.
Ronald Hearns has fought in different weight classes, but he believes his home is at 154. Hearns is a very disciplined 30, which means making weight shouldn’t be a concern. Standing at 6-foot-3, Hearns will typically be bigger than his opponent. Having great range and speed is a great combination, and Hearns makes it work perfectly.
A true family man, Ronald Hearns knows what it takes to be the best. He is more focused than ever and he looks forward to seeing all his hard work pay off on March 28th.
Hearns’ talent is drawing the attention of many observers in the boxing world, and it’s not because of who his father is. Ronald has appeared on Showtime World Championship Boxing multiple times, recently agreeing to a boxing jersey, apparel and apparel deal with Cleveland, Ohio-based Pound 4 Pound Apparel (www.pound4poundapparel.com).
Boxing is off to a great start in 2009, and Ronald Hearns will look to keep up that momentum this Saturday. And in the very near future, if he has any say in the matter, there’s a good chance that when boxing fans hear the Hearns last name, they’ll have a couple of options to think about.