Rick Thornberry was born on 17 February 1968 and is an Australian former professional boxer who competed from 1985 to 2002.
10 Facts About Rick Thornberry
1.
2.
Rick Thornberry held the IBO super middleweight title in 1995 and challenged twice for major world championships; the WBO super middleweight title in 1999 and the IBF super middleweight title in 2002.
3.
In October 1996, Rick Thornberry fought outside of Australia for the first time, challenging Henry Wharton for the Commonwealth Super Middleweight Title and suffered a fifth round defeat.
4.
Rick Thornberry bounced back with several wins, and climbed the WBO ranks by defeating Fiji's Frank Atu for the WBO Asia Pacific Super Middleweight Title and defending it against Ambrose Mlilo.
5.
In June 1999, Rick Thornberry now ranked as the WBO number one contender, travelled to Wales for the biggest night of his career, challenging Joe Calzaghe for the WBO World Super Middleweight Title.
6.
Calzaghe was expected to finish the fight early but suffered a hand injury in the third round and Rick Thornberry managed to last all twelve rounds, losing a wide decision.
7.
Almost three years and just two victories later Rick Thornberry got the surprise chance to travel to Germany and face undefeated IBF champion Sven Ottke.
8.
Rick Thornberry had limited success but managed to take the fight to the judges, st losing by a wide decision.
9.
In 2011 Rick Thornberry was jailed for two years drug and gun possession.
10.
Rick Thornberry had been arrested for drug possession on previous occasions.