Hearns was just 22 years old, carrying a pristine 32-0 record with 30 knockouts into the ring. Standing 6 foot 1, he owned significant height and reach edges over the 5 foot 10 Leonard. Those physical realities dictated the early flow of the contest.
Hearns established his long left jab immediately, denying Leonard the separation required to unload rapid combinations. Leonard’s left eye began to shut, while Hearns banked rounds behind sharp outside boxing.
The matchup forced Leonard to ditch his trademark style. His speed and ring circles failed to pierce Hearns’ reach. To survive, Leonard had to absorb clean
