Description
Sports Illustrated – June 19, 1989 (Sugar Ray Leonard Cover, Good Condition)
This June 19, 1989 issue of Sports Illustrated features Sugar Ray Leonard on the cover, following his dramatic super middleweight title defense against Thomas Hearns in their much-anticipated rematch. The fight ended in a draw, keeping Leonard’s title intact, and remains one of the most debated decisions in boxing history. An iconic collectible issue for boxing fans and Sports Illustrated enthusiasts.
The magazine is in good condition, with minor edge wear consistent with age. The exact item pictured is the one you will receive. All issues come with a plastic protective covering, and combined shipping is available upon request.
Contents & Highlights
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Leonard vs. Hearns – Sugar Ray Leonard battles Thomas Hearns to a draw, retaining his super middleweight title (by Pat Putnam).
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Pushed to the Brink – The Detroit Pistons dominate the injury-weakened Los Angeles Lakers to take a 3–0 NBA Finals lead (by Bruce Newman).
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O You Beautiful Birds – The Baltimore Orioles’ stunning turnaround from 1988 futility to leading the American League East (by Steve Wulf).
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Giant Killers – Michael Chang shocks the tennis world at the French Open; Arantxa Sánchez triumphs as well (by Curry Kirkpatrick).
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Nice and Easy – Easy Goer spoils Sunday Silence’s Triple Crown bid with a commanding Belmont Stakes win (by William Nack).
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The Day We Blasted Moscow – A San Francisco softball team faces off against Soviet challengers in a unique sports diplomacy event (by Ron Fimrite).
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Paddling the Straight and Narrow – White-water canoe legend Jon Lugbill’s dominance and old-school athletic mentality (by Douglas S. Looney).
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Sir Walter – A look back at the brilliance and flamboyance of golf legend Walter Hagen (by Ron Fimrite).
Why Collect This Issue?
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Iconic Sugar Ray Leonard cover from his rematch with Thomas Hearns.
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Captures a pivotal year in boxing, NBA history, horse racing, tennis, and golf.
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Includes Michael Chang’s French Open breakthrough and Easy Goer’s Belmont victory.
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A true piece of 1980s sports history and a must-have for collectors.