Pernell Whitaker

Pernell Whitaker was born in Norfolk, Virginia, U.S. on January 2, 1964. He made his professional debut at the age of 20 years on November 15, 1984 against Farrain Comeaux. Whitaker defeated Comeaux via 2nd round TKO, making a successful beginning of his pro career.

Whitaker got his first shot at a world title at the age of 24 after 15 professional fights. On March 12, 1988 Whitaker challenged Jose Luis Ramírez' WBC lightweight title but lost via 12-round split decision.

He became a world champion on February 18, 1989 at the age of 25 years, after by defeating Greg Haugen, the then-reining IBF lightweight champion, via 12-round unanimous decision. This was his 18th fight as a professional.

Whitaker then went on to successfully conquer the super-lightweight (IBF), welterweight (WBC), and super-welterweight (WBA) divisions as well to become a four-division world champion — and undisputed at lightweight.

Whitaker's last fight was a 4th-round TKO loss to Carlos Bojorquez at age 37, on April 27, 2001.

Some of Pernell Whitaker's best fights were against Julio César Chávez (HOFer), Azumah Nelson (HOFer), Juan Nazario, Buddy McGirt (HOFer), Greg Haugen, Roger Mayweather, and Jose Luis Ramirez. For a complete list of Whitaker's best fights and their details, refer to "Best fights of Pernell Whitaker".

Whitaker has 4 losses on his record. For details about these losses refer to "Pernell Whitaker Losses".