• 9 months ago
Thomas Hearns defended his WBC world middleweight title against Iran Barkley

Date: June 6, 1988

Venue: Las vegas Hilton, Las Vegas

Hearns stance: orthodox

Barkley stance: orthodox

Thomas Hearns lost his first attempt to win the world middleweight title when he was stopped in three rounds by Marvin Hagler in 1985. Hearns took almost a year off before winning the NABF middleweight belt with a first round knockout of James Shuler. After an eighth round stoppage of Mark Medal and a points win over Doug DeWitt, Hearns moved up in weight and won the WBC light heavyweight title with a tenth round stoppage of Dennis Andries in 1987. Seven months later, Hearns won the vacant WBC middleweight crown with a fourth round knockout of Juan Roldan.

Iran Barkley turned pro in 1982. His first big win was an eighth round knockout of Wilford Scypion in his 19th bout. A split decision win over James Kinchen four fights later helped Barkley earn a challenge for the vacant WBA middleweight title against Sumbu Kalambay, which he lost on points in 1987. A split decision win over Sanderline Williams, and a fifth round stoppage of Michael Olajide early in 1988 gave Barkley momentum going into his second attempt to win a world title.

For an in depth look at their respective records, visit:

Thomas Hearns - https://boxrec.com/en/box-pro/303

Iran Barkley - https://boxrec.com/en/proboxer/447

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