"Logic Behind the Leather" Who Are They

So we've decided here at FightNite101, to honor and remember past boxers, MMA and many other of our favorite sports figures, not only for their talent, but the legacy they've left behind, paving the way for future athletes.

Our featured fighter today is, Virgil Akins. Known as "Honeybear," Akins was born in St. Louis on March 10th, 1928. He began his boxing career as Lightweight, eventually moving up to the Welterweight division. Akins was the first World Champion hailing from St. Louis, winning the undisputed Welterweight Championship in 1958.

He was considered a "lanky" fighter, but had tremendous punching power. In 1955, he ended Ronnie Delaney's forty seven fight winning streak, by KO'ing him. Akins retired in 1962.

He was honored by The Ring magazine as the Progress Fighter of the Year in 1958, and elected to the Gateway Classic Walk of Fame. Akins passed away in his hometown of St. Louis on January 22, 2011.