Both have grown substantially since they battled in 1981 for the undisputed 147-pound title, when Leonard stopped Hearns in the 14th round. Leonard's left eye was almost closed and Hearns led on all three judges' scorecards when Leonard demonstrated a resourcefulness and furious finish that have helped establish him as one of boxing's biggest attractions ever.

Leonard-Hearns II as a massive moneymaker is remarkable considering that most boxing authorities predict Leonard will win handily. Virtually none believe Hearns can go the distance, and some even say Leonard can pick the round when he will put Hearns to sleep. The consensus is that Hearns has weak legs and a weak chin, and the fact he has trained as hard as Leonard did for [Marvin Hagler] will do him no good.

Leonard, tucked away here in a private home, issued a statement expressing sympathy for Hearns because of the shooting. Before that, Leonard and Hearns took turns taunting one another during a cross-country promotional tour and, finally, this week when Hearns accused Leonard of building up his body by using steroids.