Mark Medal

Mark Medal, is a name that might resonate with boxing fans of the 1980s. Medal carved out a career in the light middleweight division. Born on June 10, 1957, in the bustling streets of Manhattan, New York, Medal rose to the lofty status of world title holder.

Medal's Puerto Rican-American heritage infused his fighting style with a unique blend of technique and passion. He burst onto the professional scene in 1979, quickly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with in the 154-pound weight class. His rise through the ranks was meteoric, amassing an impressive record of 22 wins against a single loss before his shot at glory arrived.

The pivotal moment in Medal's career came in 1984 at the Sands Casino Hotel in Atlantic City. There, he faced Earl Hargrove for the vacant IBF Light Middleweight Title. Medal secured a fifth-round TKO victory and etched his name in the history books as the division's inaugural IBF champion. This triumph was the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, punctuated by notable victories such as his decision win over future world title contender Kevin Howard, who would later share the ring with the legendary Sugar Ray Leonard.

However, the sweet taste of championship success was short-lived for Medal. He faced the formidable Carlos Santos of Puerto Rico in his first title defence at the iconic Felt Forum in New York City. The bout went the full 15-round distance, with Santos emerging victorious via unanimous decision, ending Medal's brief reign as champion.

Despite this setback, Medal's fighting spirit remained undiminished. His career reached another pinnacle in 1986 when he challenged the renowned Thomas "Hitman" Hearns for the WBC Light Middleweight title. The clash, held at the outdoor arena of Caesars Palace, was a true test of Medal's mettle. Although he succumbed to Hearns' power in the eighth round, the bout served as a testament to Medal's courage and skill, standing toe-to-toe with one of boxing's all-time greats.

Medal's professional journey came to a close shortly after the Hearns fight, but his impact on the sport, particularly in the light middleweight division, remains significant.