On This Day, Sugar Ray Robinson became world champion for the 5th time

March 25th

1958

Sugar Ray Robinson considered by many as the greatest fighter of them all,  became world middleweight champion for the 5th time, defeating Carmen Basilio, by a split decision after fifteen rugged and absorbing rounds. It happened at the Chicago Stadium. Referee Frank Sikora favored Basilio, but Judges, John Bray and Franklin Spike McAdams, saw Robinson as victorious. The magnificent and highly competitive bout was lauded as the best of the year by  “The Ring” magazine.