Charles L. "Sonny" Liston was an American professional boxer known for his toughness, punching power and intimidating appearance. He became World Heavyweight Champion in 1962 by knocking out Floyd Patterson in the first round. Liston failed to live up to his fearsome reputation when he lost the title in 1964 to 7-1 underdog Muhammad Ali. Underworld connections and an early death?along with his unrecorded date of birth?added to the enigma. The Ring magazine ranked Liston as the 7th greatest heavyweight of all-time in 1998 and the 15th greatest puncher of all-time in 2003. 

May 8th, 1932 in Sand Slough, Arkansas  /  Died:   Dec 30th, 1970