For decades, Thomas Hearns stood as one of boxing’s most electrifying champions — a Detroit icon whose devastating right hand earned him the nickname “The Hitman” and helped reshape the sport in the 1980s. At 67, however, Hearns now finds himself navigating a very different kind of fight — one unfolding not in an arena, but in probate court.
A Michigan judge has placed Hall of Fame boxer Thomas Hearns under guardianship and conservatorship after concerns about his health and finances. Oakland County Chief Probate Judge Pro Tempore Daniel A. O’Brien appointed Hearns’ eldest son, Ronald Hearns, as sole guardian and conservator, granting him authority over his financial decisions.
The decision followed testimony that Adult Protective Services had begun examining whether the boxing legend was vulnerable to financial exploitation or undue influence from relatives. APS workers also told the court they struggled to locate Hearns after some family members refused to disclose his whereabouts.
Despite the legal tension, Hearns has tried to reassure fans that he remains in good spirits…