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(November 17)
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Nov 17
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Thomas Hearns vs. Jerome Hill: A Historic Debut

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Boxer Thomas Hearns

The Birth of a Champion: Thomas Hearns vs. Jerome Hill

Thomas Hearns’ Historic Debut

On November 22, 1977, the boxing world was introduced to Thomas Hearns, a 19-year-old phenom from Detroit, who stepped into the ring for his very first professional fight against Jerome Hill. Hearns had gained a reputation as a fierce amateur fighter, and expectations were high as he prepared to showcase his skills in front of an eager audience. His explosive power and tall frame made him a dangerous opponent right from the start.

Jerome Hill’s Challenge

Jerome Hill, an experienced boxer, was no stranger to the ring. He understood he would have to utilize his experience to counter the youthful vigor of Hearns. However, Hills' experience would soon be put to the test against Hearns' incredible speed and power.

A Stunning Knockout in Two Rounds

The First Round Explosion

The fight commenced with Hearns displaying his signature reach and jab, keeping Hill at bay. As the first round unfolded, it became clear that Hearns was not just a novice; he was a tactical fighter. By the end of the first round, Hill had already realized he was in a fight with a future superstar.

Knockout in the Second Round

In the second round, Hearns unleashed his devastating right-hand power. Just two minutes into the round, he landed a crushing blow that sent Hill to the canvas. Though Hill got back on his feet, the referee quickly assessed the situation and waved off the fight, declaring Hearns the winner by knockout. This victory not only marked Hearns’ first fight but also laid the foundation for his storied career, which would earn him the moniker ‘The Hitman’.

Fun Fact

Hearns’ Remarkable Ascendancy

Following this fight, Thomas Hearns went on to become one of the most celebrated figures in boxing history, known for his incredible knockout power and legacy of championship titles across multiple weight classes.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Thomas Hearns

Dive deeper into the life and career of Thomas Hearns by exploring books such as “The Hitman: Hearns vs. Leonard” and “Hearns: The True Story of the Hitman” to better understand his impact on the sport of boxing.