IT might not have happened many times in his legendary career, but boxing great Sugar Ray Leonard was knocked out by his visit to Henry’s Gym in Acomb.

The 60-year-old American, who won world titles at five different weight divisions, was bowled over by the expansive Regents Building venue and the warmth of his welcome in North Yorkshire during a week-long UK tour.

Leonard posed for photographs at the gym, opened by York’s former world championship fighter Henry Wharton almost four years ago, before entertaining a 220-strong audience with animated stories of his life and famous fights.

He went on to spar in the ring with four lucky auction winners, while comedy was provided by compere Jed Stone.

Describing Wharton’s work as a “blessing” to the city, an inspired Leonard told The Press: “The facility that Henry is providing here is off the hook.

“It’s amazing and these kind of venues and gyms are just what boxing needs in all communities and Henry is doing a fantastic job. It’s a real blessing and beautiful.

“These places are extremely important because boxing saved my life. It took me off the streets and kept me away from drugs and gangs and I’ve been in boxing for 50 years now.

“It’s enabled me to travel the world and to meet my greatest fans – here in the UK. Henry tried to reach his dreams as a boxer and I always tell kids to pursue their dreams.

“Henry might not have become world champion but, with people like Nigel Benn, he was up against the best of the best back then and giving back is the true sign of a champion. It’s not about what you do in the ring, for me, but what you do out of it and he’s helping other people’s dreams come true.”

On the reception he received at the 10,000-square foot site, which is housed on the top floor of the former Regent Cinema in York Road, Leonard added: “It was fantastic and so humbling to see my fans in York and for them to come out and embrace and acknowledge me and I had a great time.”

Leonard also spoke of plans to bring over all members of the “Fabulous Four” – himself and former foes Thomas Hearns, Marvin Hagler and Roberto Duran – together to York in the future.

Panamanian multiple world champion Duran, meanwhile, is the next guest scheduled to visit Henry’s Gym on Sunday, May 7 at 12noon.

Standards tickets cost £40, with VIP tickets costing £10 more and including premium seating, as well as a photograph with Duran.

To reserve a seat or table call 07543 636424 or 07912 983671.

Wharton, meanwhile, stressed: “I’d like to thank the people of York for their support by turning out in their numbers for Sugar Ray’s visit because, without them, we wouldn’t be able to hold these events.”