Sport: The Champ Gives a Lesson

Harlem's Sugar Ray Robinson, welterweight (147 Ibs.) champion of the world, danced in his corner almost unnoticed. All eyes in Philadelphia's Municipal Stadium were on the challenger, Cuba's Gerardo ("Kid Gavilan") Gonzales. Most of the 27,805 customers seemed to think that the Cuban had a real chance for the crown.

Dapper, comfort-loving Ray Robinson nas not been a popular champion. He has fought only when he felt like it and has been known to change his mind about a match after the contracts were signed. Moreover, in Harlem, where he owns and operates four businesses (including Sugar Ray's Café), even his friends...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!