Although Hearns came from a rich boxing tradition, he did not start boxing until he was already in his twenties. After just ten amateur bouts the 6’3” Hearns climbed thru the ropes at Detroit’s Joe Louis Arena making his pro debut against a 2-0 Alex Black. Less than three minutes later, a victorious Hearns left the ring having knocked out Black in the first round. His famous father needed part of the second round to knock out his first opponent twenty-seven years before.