Sugar Ray Leonard remains the gold standard for boxing excellence, a man whose charisma outside the ring matched the ferocious technical brilliance he displayed within it.
As one of the legendary “Four Kings” who defined the 1980s, Leonard didn’t just win titles; he won the hearts of a global audience, proving that boxing could be as much an art form as a physical struggle.
I caught up with the Hall of Famer to get his take on the rapidly shifting landscape of modern combat sports, from the rise of female superstars to the disruptive energy of the “influencer boxing” era.
Despite the many changes the sport has undergone since his retirement, Leonard remains its most steadfast advocate, viewing every new development through a lens of hope and possibility.
He spoke with the same rhythmic grace that once characterized his footwork, offering praise for the new guard while reflecting on his own surprising athletic roots. Our conversation moved effortlessly from his support for champions like Claressa Shields to his personal connection with peers like Roy Jones Jr.
Throughout our talk, it became clear that while the faces and formats of boxing may change, Leonard’s belief in the “sweet science” is unshakeable.
Sugar Ray Leonard Q&A
We discussed his admiration for the current movement in women’s boxing, his perspective on the crossover between the ring and the screen, and why he’s certain the sport will always be okay.
This transcript has been edited and condensed for clarity and space. You can watch the full, unedited Scoop B Radio interview with Sugar Ray Leonard by clicking here.
Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: What is your take on the current state of women’s boxing? I’d love to hear your thoughts on Claressa Shields and the massive movement she’s leading right now.
Sugar Ray Leonard: You know what, there is so much talent out there right now, period. Naturally, I’m a major boxing fan, but you have to look at it for what it is. Can the business be helped? Yes. Everything needs support at some point, whether it’s a business or a passion. I love boxing, so I’m in her corner—how about that?
Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: Claressa is widely considered the face of women’s boxing. Have you had a chance to catch any of her fights yet?
Sugar Ray Leonard: I haven’t seen her live yet, but I certainly will now. It’s been brought to my attention again and I really like what I see.
Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: We can’t talk about modern boxing without mentioning Jake Paul. If you were playing matchmaker, what would be your dream ring matchup for him?
Sugar Ray Leonard: I don’t know if I can answer that one! But you know what? Again, I’m an optimist. I believe in the sport and I support the hustle. Bring ‘em on! [Smiles]
Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: Throughout your career, was there ever a favorite “interplay” moment between wrestling and boxing that stands out to you?
Sugar Ray Leonard: Not a specific moment, no—but I do love wrestling. A lot of people don’t know that I actually used to wrestle big time back in high school.
Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson: We’ve seen so many legends transition into the world of entertainment—Mr. T and Hulk Hogan in Rocky III, or even your friend Roy Jones Jr. making appearances with the WWE. What do you think about that crossover?
Sugar Ray Leonard: Roy Jones is my friend, that’s my man! You know, I’ve always been this way—and I’m not trying to dodge the question—but I truly believe it’s all going to be okay. Boxing will be okay. The sport has a way of enduring.
Closing
In an era where boxing is often scrutinized for its promotional theatrics and “crossover” spectacles, Sugar Ray Leonard remains a refreshing voice of pure, unadulterated positivity.
He doesn’t view the evolution of the sport as a threat to its legacy, but rather as an expansion of its reach, welcoming everyone from Olympic champions like Claressa Shields to modern-day disruptors with open arms.
Leonard’s revelation about his own wrestling background serves as a reminder that the greatest athletes are often built on a foundation of diverse discipline and a relentless curiosity for competition. His enduring friendship with figures like Roy Jones Jr. highlights the brotherhood that exists within the pugilistic community, a bond that transcends titles and decades.
Ultimately, Sugar Ray’s message is one of confidence: as long as there is heart, talent and a “Sugar Ray” level of optimism, the ring will always remain a sacred space.
He left us with a reminder that while the boxing business may need a helping hand from time to time, the spirit of the sport itself is indestructible.
