Tommy Hearns Achieves Historic Knockout Victory Over Juan Roldán

On October 29, 1987, Thomas “The Hitman” Hearns (44–2, 37 KOs) faced Juan “Martillo” Roldán for the vacant WBC middleweight title at the Las Vegas Hilton, Winchester, Nevada. Before this fight, Hearns had jumped to light heavyweight, defeating Dennis Andries by tenth-round TKO to win the WBC light heavyweight title. “The Hitman” decided to return to middleweight and challenge for the WBC crown, and it was ultimately a wise decision.

Thomas Hearns Creates History Against Juan Roldán

Hearns vs. Roldán Recap

Roldán began as the aggressor, seemingly looking to land the knockout blow. Hearns remained calm and picked his punches well, landing two well-placed right hands and scoring a knockdown in the first round. The Argentine fighter beat the count and continued his assault, with “The Hitman” landing a well-timed three-punch combination that dropped Roldán, who made it to the bell.

Read More: Thomas Hearns vs. Roberto Durán: Reliving the Knockout of the Decade

Despite being knocked down twice, Roldán continued his aggressive approach – which saw him sent to the canvas for the third time. A solid round three led to the Argentine stunning Hearns with a big right hand which threatened to turn the fight on its head. “The Hitman” recovered and landed a brutal right cross, sending Roldán to the canvas for the final time, being counted out, making Hearns the first boxer to win four world titles in four different weight classes.

To hear the Hearns-Roldán nostalgia and more from the “Fight Freaks Unite Recap Podcast” with Dan Rafael and TJ Rives, click the play button below.

What Happened Next

Following this impressive win, Hearns lost to Iran Barkley by third-round TKO. A win over Virgil Hill was the highlight of the next few fights for “The Hitman.” His career ended on April 6, 2007, with a tenth-round TKO triumph over Shannon Landberg.

Read More: On This Night In 1980 Thomas Hearns Flattened Pipino Cuevas

Hearns finished his career with an incredible record of (61-5-1, 48 KOs), and entertained fight fans with his quick movements and brilliant jab. He also had a wonderful right cross, which ended many fights in his favour.