Thomas 'Hitman' Hearns auctions items to pay IRS debt

Boxer owes the IRS nearly $450,000

Detroit -- Legendary pugilist Thomas "Hitman" Hearns will try to pay down a $450,000 tax debt through a Saturday auction billed as the "Battle of His Life."

Hearns, dubbed the "Hitman" because of his knockout power, is selling a 1957 Chevy, three boats, six ATVs, a three-wheeled motorcycle and boxing memorabilia, including gloves, trunks, shoes and robes at the Auction Block on Detroit's west side.

The 51-year-old Hearns, who made more than $40 million during his career, also owes about $500,000 on his Southfield house and is in danger of losing it, according to a public notice. He owes the Internal Revenue Service roughly $448,191.

Obie Moore, owner of the Auction Block, has invited Hearns to sign autographs for fans during the auction as a way to attract more people.

Moore could not say for sure if Hearns was attending. Hearns has given conflicting statements about whether he was coming or not, Moore said.

"All the money will go to the IRS," Moore said. "He is trying to get out of this (debt)."

Hearns did not return calls, and his attorney, Michael J. Smith, was not available for comment.

Fewer than 100 items of Hearns' property will be auctioned, and the items are part of a joint auction of items seized by Detroit police, Moore said.

"We hope he comes," Moore said. "It kind of makes sense. ... He told us yes; but he has told other people differently."

While Hearns has luxurious items for bid, police are auctioning off more pedestrian items such as home electronics, auto wheel covers, tools and video games.