The fight started and it didn't disappoint those who watched it. It was a slugfest that the young Michael Spinks, age 24, is going to have to fight very well.
Yaqui Lopez ain't no pushover. And he was showing it when he clearly won the first 3 rounds against the former olympic gold medalist. Spinks, a slow starter started to put it together with jabs, uppercuts and overhand rights. He opened a cut in Lopez's left eye in the fourth round.
Lopez won the fifth round in a violent exchange of blows. Spinks regained control in the sixth, and was hammering Lopez with overhand rights.
In the 7th round, Spinks dropped Lopez twice to the canvas and American referee Vincent Rainone stopped the fight. And it was well stopped. Another setback for the fighting veteran contender Yaqui Lopez.
Spinks so far at his young age, wins the biggest fight of his career and puts him in position to challenge WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion Eddie Mustapha Muhammad of Brooklyn, NY or WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion Matthew Saad Muhammad of Philadelphia, PA.
Spinks improves his record to 14-0, 9KOs. In this fight, was the beginning of the introduction of The Spinks Jinx.
As for Lopez, he drops to 49-11 with 33 knockouts. He had another crack at a world title, this time at cruiserweight but lost by technical knockout in 4 rounds against WBC World Cruiserweight Champion Carlos "Sugar" De Leon of Puerto Rico in 1982.
Lopez retired with a record of 61-15, with 39 knockouts.
The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
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elmersalsa
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elmersalsa
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Michael Spinks is going up in the ranks in the Light-heavyweight division.
After stopping dangerous contender Alvaro Yaqui Lopez by knockout in 7 rounds in Atlantic City, NJ in October 1980, Spinks dispatches Willie Taylor of Brooklyn, NY in Philadelphia, PA in 8 rounds to solidify his ranking on January 1981.
On Saturday, March 28, Spinks is about to prove that he belongs with the best 175-pounders in the world when he fights two-time former World Light-Heavyweight champion Marvin Johnson of Indianapolis, IN.
The fight was set at the Resorts International in Atlantic City, NJ.
After stopping dangerous contender Alvaro Yaqui Lopez by knockout in 7 rounds in Atlantic City, NJ in October 1980, Spinks dispatches Willie Taylor of Brooklyn, NY in Philadelphia, PA in 8 rounds to solidify his ranking on January 1981.
On Saturday, March 28, Spinks is about to prove that he belongs with the best 175-pounders in the world when he fights two-time former World Light-Heavyweight champion Marvin Johnson of Indianapolis, IN.
The fight was set at the Resorts International in Atlantic City, NJ.
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elmersalsa
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Marvin Johnson, the former two-time World Light-Heavyweight Champion, came to Atlantic City with a record of 26-4, with 21 knockouts.
At 26, Johnson started his career in May 1973. He was also a former Olympian that competed in the 1972 Olympic Summer Games in Munich, Germany. He won the bronze medal.
Johnson, a hard-hitting southpaw, was an exciting fighter that gave the fans their money's worth. He was a fighter's fighter. A warrior.
Johnson won his first 15 bouts, winning 12 of them by knockout. On July 1977, he and future WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion, Matthew Saad Muhammad of Philadelphia, PA had one of the greatest and brutal slugfests of the 175lbs division. The fight was for the NABF Light-Heavyweight Crown. Muhammad stopped Johnson in 12 rounds. Muhammad was named Matthew Franklin at the time when he fought Johnson in 1977.
In December 1978, Johnson reached his childhood dream in becoming the WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion when he destroyed champion Mate Parlov of Yugoslavia, now Croatia, in 10 rounds in Marsala, Italy.
But on his first defense, and like the warrior that he was, he wanted to avenge and defend his crown against his conqueror Franklin, now named Saad Muhammad.
On April 22, 1979 in front of his fans in Indianapolis, IN, Johnson and Saad Muhammad had a brutal slugfest again. But, this time, and again, the fight ended much earlier in round 8 by the same knockout result. Johnson was no longer champion.
But 2 fights and 7 months later, on November 30th, Johnson stopped long-reigning WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion Victor Galindez of Argentina in 11 rounds in New Orleans, LA. It was probably the greatest win in Johnson's career.
But, on March 1980, Johnson lost his crown on his very first defense against Eddie Gregory, (later named Eddie Mustapha Muhammad), by knockout in 11 rounds in Knoxville, TN.
But, Johnson regrouped, winning his next 3 fights, all by knockout and now, undefeated Michael Spinks is in his way for another opportunity and a crack at the title.
At 26, Johnson started his career in May 1973. He was also a former Olympian that competed in the 1972 Olympic Summer Games in Munich, Germany. He won the bronze medal.
Johnson, a hard-hitting southpaw, was an exciting fighter that gave the fans their money's worth. He was a fighter's fighter. A warrior.
Johnson won his first 15 bouts, winning 12 of them by knockout. On July 1977, he and future WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion, Matthew Saad Muhammad of Philadelphia, PA had one of the greatest and brutal slugfests of the 175lbs division. The fight was for the NABF Light-Heavyweight Crown. Muhammad stopped Johnson in 12 rounds. Muhammad was named Matthew Franklin at the time when he fought Johnson in 1977.
In December 1978, Johnson reached his childhood dream in becoming the WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion when he destroyed champion Mate Parlov of Yugoslavia, now Croatia, in 10 rounds in Marsala, Italy.
But on his first defense, and like the warrior that he was, he wanted to avenge and defend his crown against his conqueror Franklin, now named Saad Muhammad.
On April 22, 1979 in front of his fans in Indianapolis, IN, Johnson and Saad Muhammad had a brutal slugfest again. But, this time, and again, the fight ended much earlier in round 8 by the same knockout result. Johnson was no longer champion.
But 2 fights and 7 months later, on November 30th, Johnson stopped long-reigning WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion Victor Galindez of Argentina in 11 rounds in New Orleans, LA. It was probably the greatest win in Johnson's career.
But, on March 1980, Johnson lost his crown on his very first defense against Eddie Gregory, (later named Eddie Mustapha Muhammad), by knockout in 11 rounds in Knoxville, TN.
But, Johnson regrouped, winning his next 3 fights, all by knockout and now, undefeated Michael Spinks is in his way for another opportunity and a crack at the title.
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elmersalsa
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
It was Saturday, March 28, 1981 at the Resorts International in Atlantic City, NJ. Marvin Johnson, the former two-time World Light-Heavyweight Champion faces undefeated Michael Spinks of St Louis, MO.
Round one starts and Johnson, a fast starter is already banging and coming inside Spinks' chest. Spinks, at 24, a slow starter, uses his jabs and throws his overhand right occasionally.
The fight was not a disappointment. Both guys threw lots of leather, giving the fans their money's worth.
But, in round 4, it was over. Spinks threw a terrific left uppercut shot to Johnson's chin. Forget it! It was over! Johnson didn't get up.
The winner by knockout in round 4, and still undefeated, Michael Spinks!
Spinks improves to 16-0, with 11 knockouts. And just like that, he is now the #1 contender for the Light-heavyweight crown of either WBC World Champion Matthew Saad Muhammad or WBA World Champion Eddie Mustapha Muhammad.
After the fight, ring broadcaster for ABC Sports, the legendary Howard Cossell interviewed Spinks and Muhammad sitting side by side from each other. They started to jive about fighting each other like two warriors do. Spinks didn't had an interview chance by Cossell. And if he had one, it was promptly quick by Muhammad's antics. Spinks said something about "Sign the contracts!" to Muhammad. It was kind of amusing and funny.
Meanwhile, Johnson, heartbroken and dejected, finally got up from that nasty uppercut. His handlers got him up and he was okay afterwards, but shocked.
Johnson drops to 27-5, with 21 knockouts. But, that was not the end of his fantastic career. Johnson like a true warrior, regrouped. And next thing we know, he won 15 straight bouts and became WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion for the second time! He became the only fighter in the history of the 175lbs division to win the title 3 times!
Round one starts and Johnson, a fast starter is already banging and coming inside Spinks' chest. Spinks, at 24, a slow starter, uses his jabs and throws his overhand right occasionally.
The fight was not a disappointment. Both guys threw lots of leather, giving the fans their money's worth.
But, in round 4, it was over. Spinks threw a terrific left uppercut shot to Johnson's chin. Forget it! It was over! Johnson didn't get up.
The winner by knockout in round 4, and still undefeated, Michael Spinks!
Spinks improves to 16-0, with 11 knockouts. And just like that, he is now the #1 contender for the Light-heavyweight crown of either WBC World Champion Matthew Saad Muhammad or WBA World Champion Eddie Mustapha Muhammad.
After the fight, ring broadcaster for ABC Sports, the legendary Howard Cossell interviewed Spinks and Muhammad sitting side by side from each other. They started to jive about fighting each other like two warriors do. Spinks didn't had an interview chance by Cossell. And if he had one, it was promptly quick by Muhammad's antics. Spinks said something about "Sign the contracts!" to Muhammad. It was kind of amusing and funny.
Meanwhile, Johnson, heartbroken and dejected, finally got up from that nasty uppercut. His handlers got him up and he was okay afterwards, but shocked.
Johnson drops to 27-5, with 21 knockouts. But, that was not the end of his fantastic career. Johnson like a true warrior, regrouped. And next thing we know, he won 15 straight bouts and became WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion for the second time! He became the only fighter in the history of the 175lbs division to win the title 3 times!
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elmersalsa
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
The time came for glory for Michael Spinks of St Louis, MO, on Saturday, July 18, 1981 at the Imperial Palace Hotel in Las Vegas, NV for challenging WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion and Marvin Johnson's conqueror Eddie Mustapha Muhammad of Brooklyn, NY.
Spinks, age 24, is undefeated in 16 contests, 11 by knockout. He had surpassed the people's expectations by defeating dangerous boxers on the way to the title. And Mustapha Muhammad is another threat.
Muhammad, 27, a vicious counter puncher and hard hitting fighter, started his career in 1972. He already has made 3 successful title defenses. This is his fourth title defense. And after that, if he beats Spinks, he's on a million dollar payday for a title unification against WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion Matthew Saad Muhammad of Philadelphia, PA, later in the year.
Muhammad has beaten good fighters like Eugene "Cyclone" Hart (WKO4), Jesse Burnett (WTKO10), Saad Muhammad (W10), and Jerry Martin (W10). He lost to top middleweight contender Bennie Briscoe by decision. He also lost to incarcerated boxer James Scott, a top contender that nobody wanted a piece of him from Rahway Prison in New Jersey. And in his first title try, he lost to Victor Galindez of Argentina for Galindez's WBA World Light-Heavyweight Crown. Galindez lost the crown to Marvin Johnson in 1979. And then, Muhammad beat Johnson for the title.
Before defending his crown to Spinks, Muhammad lost to top heavyweight contender Renaldo Snipes by decision in 10 rounds.
Spinks, age 24, is undefeated in 16 contests, 11 by knockout. He had surpassed the people's expectations by defeating dangerous boxers on the way to the title. And Mustapha Muhammad is another threat.
Muhammad, 27, a vicious counter puncher and hard hitting fighter, started his career in 1972. He already has made 3 successful title defenses. This is his fourth title defense. And after that, if he beats Spinks, he's on a million dollar payday for a title unification against WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion Matthew Saad Muhammad of Philadelphia, PA, later in the year.
Muhammad has beaten good fighters like Eugene "Cyclone" Hart (WKO4), Jesse Burnett (WTKO10), Saad Muhammad (W10), and Jerry Martin (W10). He lost to top middleweight contender Bennie Briscoe by decision. He also lost to incarcerated boxer James Scott, a top contender that nobody wanted a piece of him from Rahway Prison in New Jersey. And in his first title try, he lost to Victor Galindez of Argentina for Galindez's WBA World Light-Heavyweight Crown. Galindez lost the crown to Marvin Johnson in 1979. And then, Muhammad beat Johnson for the title.
Before defending his crown to Spinks, Muhammad lost to top heavyweight contender Renaldo Snipes by decision in 10 rounds.
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elmersalsa
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
When Michael Spinks challenged Eddie Mustapha Muhammad for Muhammad's WBA World Light-Heavyweight Crown, it was Saturday, July 18, 1981 at the Imperial Palace Hotel in Las Vegas, NV.
It was a solid contest between two technicians and counter punchers. They were fighting very well inside, to the surprise of my viewing. Especially, for Spinks, in which he was the taller fighter, measuring 6'2". A tall height for a 175-pounder.
The fight was close in the very first 5 rounds. But, from round six and on, Spinks took command using his reach, jab and height advantages. He was boxing Muhammad well.
At some point in the fight, Muhammad's right eye started to shut, due to Spinks' left jabs. In round 12, Spinks Jinx right cross put Muhammad on the canvas. It was a terrific shot. That sealed the deal for Spinks to win the title.
Muhammad bravely got up and finished the fight. Up to that point, Muhammad has never been knocked out yet.
The winner by unanimous decision and new WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion! Michael Spinks!
Spinks was the last of the Olympic Gold Medalists of the 1976 USA boxing team to fight for a world title. His brother Leon Spinks was the first of that magnificent team to win a world title when he defeated the great Muhammad Ali by split decision in February 1978 for the World Heavyweight Crown.
Then, came the great Sugar Ray Leonard and stopped the magnificent champion Wilfred Benitez in 15 rounds to win the WBC World and Lineal Welterweight Crown in November 1979.
Leon Randolph became WBA World Jr Featherweight Champion when he won his crown in 1980. But, Howard Davis in that same year, wasn't so lucky, becoming the only guy from that special group of not winning a world championship in the professional boxing ranks.
But, this afternoon belonged to Michael Spinks, joining his brother Leon as few brothers becoming world champions in professional boxing.
The judges scored it:
Duane Ford 146-138, for Spinks
Chuck Minker 145-139, for Spinks
Lou Tabat 144-140, also for Spinks.
I scored it 147-141 for Spinks.
The new era of Light-heavyweight division begins.
Spinks improves to 17-0, with 11 knockouts.
Mustapha Muhammad drops to 38-6-1 with 32 knockouts.
Mustapha last world title fight was in 1987 for Stefan Tangstad's IBF World Light-Heavyweight Crown. He lost to Stangstad by decision.
Ironically, Muhammad retired in 1988, the same year as Spinks.
It was a solid contest between two technicians and counter punchers. They were fighting very well inside, to the surprise of my viewing. Especially, for Spinks, in which he was the taller fighter, measuring 6'2". A tall height for a 175-pounder.
The fight was close in the very first 5 rounds. But, from round six and on, Spinks took command using his reach, jab and height advantages. He was boxing Muhammad well.
At some point in the fight, Muhammad's right eye started to shut, due to Spinks' left jabs. In round 12, Spinks Jinx right cross put Muhammad on the canvas. It was a terrific shot. That sealed the deal for Spinks to win the title.
Muhammad bravely got up and finished the fight. Up to that point, Muhammad has never been knocked out yet.
The winner by unanimous decision and new WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion! Michael Spinks!
Spinks was the last of the Olympic Gold Medalists of the 1976 USA boxing team to fight for a world title. His brother Leon Spinks was the first of that magnificent team to win a world title when he defeated the great Muhammad Ali by split decision in February 1978 for the World Heavyweight Crown.
Then, came the great Sugar Ray Leonard and stopped the magnificent champion Wilfred Benitez in 15 rounds to win the WBC World and Lineal Welterweight Crown in November 1979.
Leon Randolph became WBA World Jr Featherweight Champion when he won his crown in 1980. But, Howard Davis in that same year, wasn't so lucky, becoming the only guy from that special group of not winning a world championship in the professional boxing ranks.
But, this afternoon belonged to Michael Spinks, joining his brother Leon as few brothers becoming world champions in professional boxing.
The judges scored it:
Duane Ford 146-138, for Spinks
Chuck Minker 145-139, for Spinks
Lou Tabat 144-140, also for Spinks.
I scored it 147-141 for Spinks.
The new era of Light-heavyweight division begins.
Spinks improves to 17-0, with 11 knockouts.
Mustapha Muhammad drops to 38-6-1 with 32 knockouts.
Mustapha last world title fight was in 1987 for Stefan Tangstad's IBF World Light-Heavyweight Crown. He lost to Stangstad by decision.
Ironically, Muhammad retired in 1988, the same year as Spinks.
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elmersalsa
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Michael Spinks vs Eddie Mustapha Muhammad (July 18, 1981)
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
You mean it was against Slobodan Kacar in 1985, not Tangstad.
Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Eddie had fought - and lost - as a heavyweight two months before the Spinks fight. He dropped almost 27 pounds in two months and I wasn’t surprised he ran out of gas. Very talented boxer but he could fight lethargically sometimes and it cost him on occasion
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elmersalsa
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Yes. Eddie Mustapha Muhammad fought heavyweight contender Renaldo Snipes before fighting Michael Spinks
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elmersalsa
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Michael Spinks had the first defense of his WBA World Light-Heavyweight Crown on Saturday, November 7, 1981 at the Playboy Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, NJ.
His opponent was Vonzell Johnson of Columbus, OH. At 6'4", Johnson was very tall for the Light-Heavyweight division. Johnson already fought for the WBC World Light-Heavyweight Crown against champion Matthew Saad Muhammad of Philadelphia, PA. Johnson lost by an 11th round TKO early in February. He has 9 months of inactivity.
How did Johnson got another title shot without beating another contender? I don't know. But, his record was decent at 22-2, with 11KOs. He started his career in 1974 and had wins over Gary Summerhays (W10) and Johnny Davis (W8). He also lost to Jerry Celestine by decision in ten rounds.
The fight starts and Johnson had great use of his height and reach using beautifully the left jab. But it didn't moved Spinks. And Spinks, a slow starter, wasn't going anywhere from the weak shots that Johnson were throwing.
The fight was back and forth with supreme boxing skills from both fighters. But, in the 7th round, a wicked right shot to the chin thrown by Spinks caught Johnson flush on the chin. Johnson went down like a tree. When he got up, the American referee, Larry Hazzard, stopped the contest because Johnson looked very weary and out. The Spinks Jinx right hand did it again!
The winner and still the WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion! Michael Spinks!
Spinks in my view was winning by only one point.
Now, the super fight was set against Saad Muhammad for the Undisputed World Light-Heavyweight Championship. A fight that everybody wanted to see. But, Saad Muhammad had a mandatory title defense against dangerous contender, The Camden Buzzsaw, Dwight Braxton of Camden, NJ in December. The fight fell off because Braxton stopped Saad Muhammad in 11 rounds.
Johnson, age 29, retired after the fight.
His opponent was Vonzell Johnson of Columbus, OH. At 6'4", Johnson was very tall for the Light-Heavyweight division. Johnson already fought for the WBC World Light-Heavyweight Crown against champion Matthew Saad Muhammad of Philadelphia, PA. Johnson lost by an 11th round TKO early in February. He has 9 months of inactivity.
How did Johnson got another title shot without beating another contender? I don't know. But, his record was decent at 22-2, with 11KOs. He started his career in 1974 and had wins over Gary Summerhays (W10) and Johnny Davis (W8). He also lost to Jerry Celestine by decision in ten rounds.
The fight starts and Johnson had great use of his height and reach using beautifully the left jab. But it didn't moved Spinks. And Spinks, a slow starter, wasn't going anywhere from the weak shots that Johnson were throwing.
The fight was back and forth with supreme boxing skills from both fighters. But, in the 7th round, a wicked right shot to the chin thrown by Spinks caught Johnson flush on the chin. Johnson went down like a tree. When he got up, the American referee, Larry Hazzard, stopped the contest because Johnson looked very weary and out. The Spinks Jinx right hand did it again!
The winner and still the WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion! Michael Spinks!
Spinks in my view was winning by only one point.
Now, the super fight was set against Saad Muhammad for the Undisputed World Light-Heavyweight Championship. A fight that everybody wanted to see. But, Saad Muhammad had a mandatory title defense against dangerous contender, The Camden Buzzsaw, Dwight Braxton of Camden, NJ in December. The fight fell off because Braxton stopped Saad Muhammad in 11 rounds.
Johnson, age 29, retired after the fight.
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elmersalsa
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Next title defense for Michael Spinks, age 25, was his second title defense of his WBA World Light-Heavyweight Crown against challenger Mustapha Wasajja of Uganda.
The fight was set on Saturday, February 13, 1982 at the Playboy Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, NJ.
Who's Mustapha Wasajja? Well, he was from Uganda but made the country of Copenhagen, Denmark his home. Started his career in 1977 and represented Denmark in the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal.
On his 10th professional boxing match, Wasajja defeated the aging legendary and former Light-Heavyweight king Bob Foster. He knocked out Foster in 5 rounds. He also had wins against Tom Bethea, Jesse Burnett and Jerry Celestine, all by decision.
At 28, Wasajja was undefeated in 25 fights, one draw and only 7 knockout wins. A good boxer, but at 5'11", was probably too small for the champion Spinks.
The fight was one-sided from the beginning. Spinks just took his time. And in the first punch that he received from Wasajja, Spinks knew that Wasajja could not hurt him.
From the third round on, it was all Spinks. Wasajja only had 7 knockout wins in 25 fights. He needed it more than just boxing skills against a formidable champion.
In round six, Spinks finished Wasajja off with 3 booming left hooks. All on the money! The American referee, Tony Perez, had to stop the fight. Wasajja was in queer street. And Spinks kept his title.
The winner by technical knockout in round 6 and still the WBA Light-Heavyweight Champion of the World!: Michael Spinks!
Spinks improves to 19-0, with 13 knockouts.
Wasajja loses for the first time in his career and dropped at 24-1-1, with 7KOs. It was his only title shot. And he never won another fight. He lost his last 2 fights after Spinks and then, retired. He finished his short boxing career with a record of 24-3-1 with 7 knockouts.
The fight was set on Saturday, February 13, 1982 at the Playboy Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, NJ.
Who's Mustapha Wasajja? Well, he was from Uganda but made the country of Copenhagen, Denmark his home. Started his career in 1977 and represented Denmark in the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal.
On his 10th professional boxing match, Wasajja defeated the aging legendary and former Light-Heavyweight king Bob Foster. He knocked out Foster in 5 rounds. He also had wins against Tom Bethea, Jesse Burnett and Jerry Celestine, all by decision.
At 28, Wasajja was undefeated in 25 fights, one draw and only 7 knockout wins. A good boxer, but at 5'11", was probably too small for the champion Spinks.
The fight was one-sided from the beginning. Spinks just took his time. And in the first punch that he received from Wasajja, Spinks knew that Wasajja could not hurt him.
From the third round on, it was all Spinks. Wasajja only had 7 knockout wins in 25 fights. He needed it more than just boxing skills against a formidable champion.
In round six, Spinks finished Wasajja off with 3 booming left hooks. All on the money! The American referee, Tony Perez, had to stop the fight. Wasajja was in queer street. And Spinks kept his title.
The winner by technical knockout in round 6 and still the WBA Light-Heavyweight Champion of the World!: Michael Spinks!
Spinks improves to 19-0, with 13 knockouts.
Wasajja loses for the first time in his career and dropped at 24-1-1, with 7KOs. It was his only title shot. And he never won another fight. He lost his last 2 fights after Spinks and then, retired. He finished his short boxing career with a record of 24-3-1 with 7 knockouts.
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elmersalsa
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Michael Spinks, the WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion is eager to show contender and future world champion Murray Sutherland of Scotland that their first fight in Kiamesha, NY was no fluke.
They fought in May 1980, with Spinks winning by a ten rounds decision. In round 8, he almost stopped Sutherland with a vicious left hook. Or was it a right cross? I don't remember. But, Sutherland was brave and game and finished the fight.
Sutherland challenged former WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion Matthew Saad Muhammad the year before in April 1981. He was outboxing Saad Muhammad until the champion, known for his late rallies, gave Sutherland a right hand shot and and Sutherland went down. He got up, but the referee controversially, stopped the contest.
This time, Sutherland was ready and trained the best of his capabilities. In his mind, he believes that he could beat Spinks, if given a second shot at him.
The fight was on Saturday, April 11, 1982 at the Playboy Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, NJ. Sutherland came into the ring with a record of 31-6, with 27 knockouts.
Sutherland was outboxing Spinks for the first two rounds, just like he did in his first title try against Saad Muhammad a year ago. Spinks evened things up the next two rounds, throwing bombs to knockout Sutherland once and for all. Spinks looked stronger. He was very strong in this fight.
After the fifth round, Spinks began to dominate with crushing bombs and overhand rights and left hooks. Sutherland was retaliating but getting punishment. He was getting outworked and wearied by the champion that was stronger than he.
Spinks finished the fight with a left hook and Sutherland was in bad shape. The referee had to give him a standing 8 count, even though he didn't go down. Spinks went into the attack and dropped Sutherland twice more, and the American referee, Zach Clayton, stopped the contest. Spinks was too much and too strong.
The winner by technical knockout in round 8 and still the WBA Light-Heavyweight Champion of the World!...... Michael Spinks!
It was Spinks 3rd title defense. He improves to 20-0, with 14 knockouts.
As for Sutherland? Well, he tried all he could. At age 27, he is still young for another title shot someday. He dropped off to 31-7 with 27 knockouts.
It wasn't the end for Sutherland. He kept fighting. In 1983, he lost to a ten rounds decision against the great Tommy Hearns in a middleweight contest. Then, in March 1984, Sutherland finally got his long life dream of becoming world champion. He became the first IBF World Super Middleweight Champion when he decisioned long time contender Ernie Singletary in 15 rounds. It was Sutherland's defining moment as a boxer.
Sutherland retired in 1986 with a record of 47-14-1 with 39 knockouts.
They fought in May 1980, with Spinks winning by a ten rounds decision. In round 8, he almost stopped Sutherland with a vicious left hook. Or was it a right cross? I don't remember. But, Sutherland was brave and game and finished the fight.
Sutherland challenged former WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion Matthew Saad Muhammad the year before in April 1981. He was outboxing Saad Muhammad until the champion, known for his late rallies, gave Sutherland a right hand shot and and Sutherland went down. He got up, but the referee controversially, stopped the contest.
This time, Sutherland was ready and trained the best of his capabilities. In his mind, he believes that he could beat Spinks, if given a second shot at him.
The fight was on Saturday, April 11, 1982 at the Playboy Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, NJ. Sutherland came into the ring with a record of 31-6, with 27 knockouts.
Sutherland was outboxing Spinks for the first two rounds, just like he did in his first title try against Saad Muhammad a year ago. Spinks evened things up the next two rounds, throwing bombs to knockout Sutherland once and for all. Spinks looked stronger. He was very strong in this fight.
After the fifth round, Spinks began to dominate with crushing bombs and overhand rights and left hooks. Sutherland was retaliating but getting punishment. He was getting outworked and wearied by the champion that was stronger than he.
Spinks finished the fight with a left hook and Sutherland was in bad shape. The referee had to give him a standing 8 count, even though he didn't go down. Spinks went into the attack and dropped Sutherland twice more, and the American referee, Zach Clayton, stopped the contest. Spinks was too much and too strong.
The winner by technical knockout in round 8 and still the WBA Light-Heavyweight Champion of the World!...... Michael Spinks!
It was Spinks 3rd title defense. He improves to 20-0, with 14 knockouts.
As for Sutherland? Well, he tried all he could. At age 27, he is still young for another title shot someday. He dropped off to 31-7 with 27 knockouts.
It wasn't the end for Sutherland. He kept fighting. In 1983, he lost to a ten rounds decision against the great Tommy Hearns in a middleweight contest. Then, in March 1984, Sutherland finally got his long life dream of becoming world champion. He became the first IBF World Super Middleweight Champion when he decisioned long time contender Ernie Singletary in 15 rounds. It was Sutherland's defining moment as a boxer.
Sutherland retired in 1986 with a record of 47-14-1 with 39 knockouts.
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elmersalsa
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Michael Spinks vs Murray Sutherland (fight #2) April 11, 1982.
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elmersalsa
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Next for the great WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion Michael Spinks of St Louis, MO is another title defense against former sparring partner and contender Jerry Celestine of New Orleans, LA.
The fight was again promoted by Butch Lewis, Spinks's promoter, at the Playboy Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, NJ.
It was the champion Spinks fourth title defense at the Playboy Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City. And his 5th fight in Atlantic City since 1980.
Spinks, 25, came with a perfect record of 20-0, with 14 knockouts. It seems to me that the sky is the limit for this great champion. Tall, strong, smart, and very effective with his punches. Spinks also had great ring awareness. A thinking man's fighter. And he could hit like a mule at 175lbs. He overwhelms the opposition with hooks, uppercuts and overhand right crosses.
His challenger Jerry Celestine is a ring veteran that started as a professional in 1968. But, took a hiatus after 1971 by serving 5 years in prison by armed robbery. He was sentenced for 15 years in prison, but somehow, got paroled and only served 5 years for good behavior.
He won 14 straight bouts since then. But on September 1978, he lost a decision to future world champion Marvin Johnson of Indianapolis, IN. That was the same card when Muhammad Ali regained the Heavyweight Championship from Leon Spinks, Michael's brother.
Celestine, a good counter-puncher, was also a hard-hitting puncher. But, it seems that when facing top level opponents, the majority of times, he ended up losing. At to this point, Celestine at 34 years age, has lost to Marvin Johnson (L10), Mustafa Wasajja (L8), James Scott (L10), Jerry Martin (L8) and Richie Kates (LTKO4). Why was that? I don't know. He seems to be a good boxer.
But, Celestine rebounded by stopping Kates in the rematch in 8 rounds. He also had a points win against contender Vonzell Johnson in 10 rounds. Since stopping Kate's, Celestine is in a six-fight winning streak knocking out 5 in a row at one point. That's why now, is a worthy challenger for Spinks's WBA World Light-Heavyweight Crown.
The fight was again promoted by Butch Lewis, Spinks's promoter, at the Playboy Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, NJ.
It was the champion Spinks fourth title defense at the Playboy Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City. And his 5th fight in Atlantic City since 1980.
Spinks, 25, came with a perfect record of 20-0, with 14 knockouts. It seems to me that the sky is the limit for this great champion. Tall, strong, smart, and very effective with his punches. Spinks also had great ring awareness. A thinking man's fighter. And he could hit like a mule at 175lbs. He overwhelms the opposition with hooks, uppercuts and overhand right crosses.
His challenger Jerry Celestine is a ring veteran that started as a professional in 1968. But, took a hiatus after 1971 by serving 5 years in prison by armed robbery. He was sentenced for 15 years in prison, but somehow, got paroled and only served 5 years for good behavior.
He won 14 straight bouts since then. But on September 1978, he lost a decision to future world champion Marvin Johnson of Indianapolis, IN. That was the same card when Muhammad Ali regained the Heavyweight Championship from Leon Spinks, Michael's brother.
Celestine, a good counter-puncher, was also a hard-hitting puncher. But, it seems that when facing top level opponents, the majority of times, he ended up losing. At to this point, Celestine at 34 years age, has lost to Marvin Johnson (L10), Mustafa Wasajja (L8), James Scott (L10), Jerry Martin (L8) and Richie Kates (LTKO4). Why was that? I don't know. He seems to be a good boxer.
But, Celestine rebounded by stopping Kates in the rematch in 8 rounds. He also had a points win against contender Vonzell Johnson in 10 rounds. Since stopping Kate's, Celestine is in a six-fight winning streak knocking out 5 in a row at one point. That's why now, is a worthy challenger for Spinks's WBA World Light-Heavyweight Crown.
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
The first round took place, and Michael Spinks, calm and collected, use his smarts and ring generalship against his former sparring partner that knew him very well in Jerry Celestine.
In round 3, in a shocking fashion, Celestine stunned the champion Spinks. Spinks is stung and hurt. But, somehow he recovered of that right hand shot.
Both fighters were wary of each other because like I said, they were sparring partners. So both knew each other very well. Both were fighting a perfect fight. The fight was about close, but Spinks seems to have the edge.
In round 8 everything was well for Celestine until in an exchange of blows, he got the worst part of it by a Spinks' right uppercut. Flush in the money! He was out! Another right and a left did it for good and the Americans referee, Jimmy Roundeau, stopped the contest by technical knockout.
The winner by technical knockout in round 8 and still the WBA Light-Heavyweight Champion of the World!..... Michael Spinks!
This was one of Spinks's must difficult fights. He improves to 21-0 with 15 knockouts.
As for Celestine, he drops to 23-7-1 with 18 knockouts. Celestine kept fighting, winning and losing along the way to retirement. He lost 6 of his last 9 fights and retired at age 36 in September 1984 with a record of 26-13-1 with 20 knockouts.
In round 3, in a shocking fashion, Celestine stunned the champion Spinks. Spinks is stung and hurt. But, somehow he recovered of that right hand shot.
Both fighters were wary of each other because like I said, they were sparring partners. So both knew each other very well. Both were fighting a perfect fight. The fight was about close, but Spinks seems to have the edge.
In round 8 everything was well for Celestine until in an exchange of blows, he got the worst part of it by a Spinks' right uppercut. Flush in the money! He was out! Another right and a left did it for good and the Americans referee, Jimmy Roundeau, stopped the contest by technical knockout.
The winner by technical knockout in round 8 and still the WBA Light-Heavyweight Champion of the World!..... Michael Spinks!
This was one of Spinks's must difficult fights. He improves to 21-0 with 15 knockouts.
As for Celestine, he drops to 23-7-1 with 18 knockouts. Celestine kept fighting, winning and losing along the way to retirement. He lost 6 of his last 9 fights and retired at age 36 in September 1984 with a record of 26-13-1 with 20 knockouts.
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Michael Spinks vs Jerry Celestine (June 12, 1982)
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Michael Spinks, the sensational great WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion takes on challenger Johnny Davis of Hempstead, NY for Spinks's 5th title defense at the Sands Casino of Atlantic City, NJ.
The fight was televised by ABC Sports on Saturday, September 14, 1978.
Davis, age 29, a club fighter, had a record 13-3 with 4 knockouts. An unorthodox boxer that comes at you from different angles. He was a very strong boxer. He is the younger brother of top rated Light-Heavyweight contender Eddie Davis.
Among Johnny Davis' highlights, he beat the current WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion at the time Dwight Braxton, (now Dwight Muhammad Qawi) by split decision in 6 rounds in November 1978. But, in the return match, Braxton dominated him in January 1981 by decision in 10 rounds.
Since then, Davis won 3 straight, including a major upset against top rated and aging contender Alvaro "Yaqui" Lopez of Mexico in January 1982 by a ten round una decision.
Now, the opportunity of a lifetime is there for Johnny. But, at 5'9", can he handle the strength and physical advantages of the champion? Let's see.
Davis started strong against a patient champion who is considered a slow starter. But, as the rounds go by, the champion Spinks, age 26, gets stronger and stronger. He reminds me of a Light-Heavyweight Alexis Arguello. Both had the same style, but Spinks is in my view, much mobile than Arguello. Both were trained by the legendary American trainer Eddie Futch.
Round two was kind of even. You can say that the champion had the edge. But, from round 3 on, the champion Spinks had the control, but somehow, Davis' roughhousing inside tactics made the champion uncomfortable by mauling, grabbing, and roughing in. Spinks looked very frustrated because he couldn't get the challenger to hit him flush.
But, round 8, a straight right hand put Davis on the canvas. And that was a sign of victory for the champion. Now, he could buy his time to stop Davis by putting his punches together.
And putting his punches together he did. A right hand on the jaw of Davis wobbled him and the American referee, Larry Hazzard, wisely stopped the contest and protected Davis from further punishment.
The winner by technical knockout in round 9 and still the WBA Light-Heavyweight Champion of the World!...... Michael Spinks! It was Spinks's 5th title defense.
After the fight, Dwight Muhammad Qawi, the WBC World Champion counterpart who was at ring side, came to Spinks and both declared victory over the other. Both were shouting and screaming over the ABC Sports announcer Chris Finkel what they were going to do to each other. It was a funny scene.
But, this the fight that the public had been waiting for. A multi-million dollar payday for both fighters for the Undisputed World Light-Heavyweight Crown. The fight is on because of Qawi's two great wins over former champion Matthew Saad Muhammad of Philadelphia, PA. It will be scheduled for March of 1983.
Spinks improves to 22-0, with 16 knockouts.
Davis drops to 13-4, with 4 knockouts. As for Davis, he fought 9 more times, including a rubber match loss to Qawi and lost his last 7 straight fights, retiring in 1989.
The fight was televised by ABC Sports on Saturday, September 14, 1978.
Davis, age 29, a club fighter, had a record 13-3 with 4 knockouts. An unorthodox boxer that comes at you from different angles. He was a very strong boxer. He is the younger brother of top rated Light-Heavyweight contender Eddie Davis.
Among Johnny Davis' highlights, he beat the current WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion at the time Dwight Braxton, (now Dwight Muhammad Qawi) by split decision in 6 rounds in November 1978. But, in the return match, Braxton dominated him in January 1981 by decision in 10 rounds.
Since then, Davis won 3 straight, including a major upset against top rated and aging contender Alvaro "Yaqui" Lopez of Mexico in January 1982 by a ten round una decision.
Now, the opportunity of a lifetime is there for Johnny. But, at 5'9", can he handle the strength and physical advantages of the champion? Let's see.
Davis started strong against a patient champion who is considered a slow starter. But, as the rounds go by, the champion Spinks, age 26, gets stronger and stronger. He reminds me of a Light-Heavyweight Alexis Arguello. Both had the same style, but Spinks is in my view, much mobile than Arguello. Both were trained by the legendary American trainer Eddie Futch.
Round two was kind of even. You can say that the champion had the edge. But, from round 3 on, the champion Spinks had the control, but somehow, Davis' roughhousing inside tactics made the champion uncomfortable by mauling, grabbing, and roughing in. Spinks looked very frustrated because he couldn't get the challenger to hit him flush.
But, round 8, a straight right hand put Davis on the canvas. And that was a sign of victory for the champion. Now, he could buy his time to stop Davis by putting his punches together.
And putting his punches together he did. A right hand on the jaw of Davis wobbled him and the American referee, Larry Hazzard, wisely stopped the contest and protected Davis from further punishment.
The winner by technical knockout in round 9 and still the WBA Light-Heavyweight Champion of the World!...... Michael Spinks! It was Spinks's 5th title defense.
After the fight, Dwight Muhammad Qawi, the WBC World Champion counterpart who was at ring side, came to Spinks and both declared victory over the other. Both were shouting and screaming over the ABC Sports announcer Chris Finkel what they were going to do to each other. It was a funny scene.
But, this the fight that the public had been waiting for. A multi-million dollar payday for both fighters for the Undisputed World Light-Heavyweight Crown. The fight is on because of Qawi's two great wins over former champion Matthew Saad Muhammad of Philadelphia, PA. It will be scheduled for March of 1983.
Spinks improves to 22-0, with 16 knockouts.
Davis drops to 13-4, with 4 knockouts. As for Davis, he fought 9 more times, including a rubber match loss to Qawi and lost his last 7 straight fights, retiring in 1989.
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Michael Spinks vs Johnny Davis (September 18, 1982)
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
The big super fight for the Undisputed World Light-Heavyweight Crown is on.
It was the first undisputed championship in the Light-heavyweight division since WBC World Champion Bob Foster destroyed WBA World Champion Vicente Rondon by knockout in 2 rounds in 1972.
Michael Spinks, 26, the WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion meets Dwight Braxton, 30, the WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion to prove once and for all who is the real boss of the 175lbs division.
The fight was scheduled on Friday, March 18, 1983 at the Convention Center in Atlantic, NJ.
Now, who's this Dwight Braxton? Well, Braxton is a guy that had a compelling story. A rags to riches story that defied all the odds against him.
As his counterpart Spinks, Braxton was born in extreme poverty. He was born in Baltimore, MD, but grew up in Camden, NJ. In Camden, he was compelled into crime. At 20 years old, he was convicted of arm robbery.
It was at the Rahway State Prison were Braxton got interest into boxing. He saw his former inmate and future rival, top contender James Scott, making a career out of professional boxing. So, at 25, with no boxing amateur experience, Braxton became professional in 1978.
Another odd against him was that although he was very strong as an ox, he was too short fighting Light-heavyweights. He was listed 5'7", but had a long reach of 74".
With a record of 19-1-1 with 12 knockouts, Braxton climb to the top wasn't a an easy one. He lost to tough Johnny Davis of Hempstead, NY by decision in 6 rounds. But, in the rematch, Braxton beat Davis soundly in January 1981. That win put him in the line to challenge WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion Matthew Saad Muhammad in December 1981.
Braxton, stunningly dominated Saad Muhammad, who was the favorite to win the contest. He knocked out Saad Muhammad in 10 rounds to become the WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion. That win by Braxton, stopped the super fight that Spinks wanted with Saad Muhammad for the Undisputed World championship. .
Not convinced, Saad Muhammad asked for a rematch. Can Braxton do it again against the warrior Saad? And in the rematch, in August of 1982, Braxton repeated the dosis, this time, much quicker, by stopping Saad in 7 rounds. So, a dream match with Spinks was over for Saad Muhammad.
Among his other highlights on his way with the Super fight with Spinks, Braxton beat former WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion Mike Rossman by knockout in 7. He beat his ex-inmate, the feared and awesome top contender James Scott by decision in 10 and knocked out top contenders Jerry Martin and Eddie Davis in title defenses. This fight with Spinks would be his 4th title defense.
It was the first undisputed championship in the Light-heavyweight division since WBC World Champion Bob Foster destroyed WBA World Champion Vicente Rondon by knockout in 2 rounds in 1972.
Michael Spinks, 26, the WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion meets Dwight Braxton, 30, the WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion to prove once and for all who is the real boss of the 175lbs division.
The fight was scheduled on Friday, March 18, 1983 at the Convention Center in Atlantic, NJ.
Now, who's this Dwight Braxton? Well, Braxton is a guy that had a compelling story. A rags to riches story that defied all the odds against him.
As his counterpart Spinks, Braxton was born in extreme poverty. He was born in Baltimore, MD, but grew up in Camden, NJ. In Camden, he was compelled into crime. At 20 years old, he was convicted of arm robbery.
It was at the Rahway State Prison were Braxton got interest into boxing. He saw his former inmate and future rival, top contender James Scott, making a career out of professional boxing. So, at 25, with no boxing amateur experience, Braxton became professional in 1978.
Another odd against him was that although he was very strong as an ox, he was too short fighting Light-heavyweights. He was listed 5'7", but had a long reach of 74".
With a record of 19-1-1 with 12 knockouts, Braxton climb to the top wasn't a an easy one. He lost to tough Johnny Davis of Hempstead, NY by decision in 6 rounds. But, in the rematch, Braxton beat Davis soundly in January 1981. That win put him in the line to challenge WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion Matthew Saad Muhammad in December 1981.
Braxton, stunningly dominated Saad Muhammad, who was the favorite to win the contest. He knocked out Saad Muhammad in 10 rounds to become the WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion. That win by Braxton, stopped the super fight that Spinks wanted with Saad Muhammad for the Undisputed World championship. .
Not convinced, Saad Muhammad asked for a rematch. Can Braxton do it again against the warrior Saad? And in the rematch, in August of 1982, Braxton repeated the dosis, this time, much quicker, by stopping Saad in 7 rounds. So, a dream match with Spinks was over for Saad Muhammad.
Among his other highlights on his way with the Super fight with Spinks, Braxton beat former WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion Mike Rossman by knockout in 7. He beat his ex-inmate, the feared and awesome top contender James Scott by decision in 10 and knocked out top contenders Jerry Martin and Eddie Davis in title defenses. This fight with Spinks would be his 4th title defense.
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elmersalsa
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Michael Spinks vs Dwight Braxton
Undisputed World Light-Heavyweight Championship
(March 18, 1983)
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
Everything is set and ready to go for Dwight Braxton, the Camden Buzzsaw, the WBC World Light-Heavyweight Champion, to unify his crown against the WBA World Light-Heavyweight Champion Michael Spinks of St Louis, MO.
It's Friday, March 18, 1983 at the Convention Center in Atlantic City, NJ.
A packed house came to see one of the most anticipated fights of the 1980s decade.
Spinks, age 26, a slow starter, surprisingly started fast by using his long left jab. At 6'2", Spinks had a 7" height advantage, but only a 2" inch reach advantage against the stocky shorter champion.
From rounds 1 to 7, Spinks, with his smart boxing and lateral movement and stiff left jabs, was confusingly dominating Braxton. It was hard for Braxton to get inside that long reach of Spinks.
But, a strange change of events happened in round 8. Braxton connected a right to Spinks's jaw and stepped on Spinks's left foot and Spinks went down the canvas. Surprisingly, American referee, Larry Hazzard, counted it as a knockdown. Spinks didn't believe that it was. Spinks went to the canvas 3 times that round. But two of them were clearly slips.
But the knockdown reinvigorated Braxton and it slowed down Spinks a bit. After round 10, Spinks, in my view, was winning the fight by one point. But BOTH fighters looked exhausted from the pace of the action.
Spinks, though exhausted, put his heart will and determination like a real champion should be. He started to dominate from round 11 by using lateral and stiff left jabs.
Braxton was exhausted too. But, the pace and the physical advantages of Spinks were too much to overcome, but he kept going. Unbowed and still willing for the win, he threw a lot of left hooks to Spinks. Spinks felt them.
Back and forth they went from the 13th to the last round, which is the 15th. There's only one winner. Braxton needed a knockout to win the fight. He is too tired. He couldn't stop Spinks.
By the end of the fight, both fighters received a standing ovation because of the technical skills and grit determination from both fighters.
The scoring went as follows:
Judge Tony Perez scored it 144-141 for Spinks.
Judge Frank Cappuccino scored it 144-141 for Spinks.
And Judge Tony Catellano scored it 144-140 for the new Undisputed and undefeated Light-Heavyweight Champion of the World!......... Michael Spinks!
I scored it 144-141, also for Spinks.
Both fighters received a title fight record for the Light-heavyweight division, a sum of $1.5 million dollars.
Spinks, improves to 23-0, with 16 knockouts in his sixth title defense. He becomes the first undisputed champion of the division since the great Bob Foster in 1972.
Braxton, age 30, drops to 19-2-1 with 12 knockouts. He changed his name in 1982 before this fight as Dwight Muhammad Qawi. But, because of marketing and promoting the fight, Spinks' promoter, Butch Lewis, thought that the last name Braxton was more suitable.
It wasn't the end for Dwight Muhammad Qawi. He couldn't make the 175lbs limit anymore and jumped up to cruiserweight. At cruiserweight, he became WBA World Cruiserweight Champion and lost the crown to the great Evander Holyfield in a war by decision in July 1986. Two years later, at heavyweight, he fought come backing former Heavyweight Champion of the World, the great Big George Foreman in 1988. Foreman knocked him out in 7 exciting rounds.
Qawi finally retired in 1998 with a record of 41-11-1 with 25 knockouts. The Camden Buzzsaw was inducted into the International Boxing Hall Fame in Canastota, NY in 2004.
It's Friday, March 18, 1983 at the Convention Center in Atlantic City, NJ.
A packed house came to see one of the most anticipated fights of the 1980s decade.
Spinks, age 26, a slow starter, surprisingly started fast by using his long left jab. At 6'2", Spinks had a 7" height advantage, but only a 2" inch reach advantage against the stocky shorter champion.
From rounds 1 to 7, Spinks, with his smart boxing and lateral movement and stiff left jabs, was confusingly dominating Braxton. It was hard for Braxton to get inside that long reach of Spinks.
But, a strange change of events happened in round 8. Braxton connected a right to Spinks's jaw and stepped on Spinks's left foot and Spinks went down the canvas. Surprisingly, American referee, Larry Hazzard, counted it as a knockdown. Spinks didn't believe that it was. Spinks went to the canvas 3 times that round. But two of them were clearly slips.
But the knockdown reinvigorated Braxton and it slowed down Spinks a bit. After round 10, Spinks, in my view, was winning the fight by one point. But BOTH fighters looked exhausted from the pace of the action.
Spinks, though exhausted, put his heart will and determination like a real champion should be. He started to dominate from round 11 by using lateral and stiff left jabs.
Braxton was exhausted too. But, the pace and the physical advantages of Spinks were too much to overcome, but he kept going. Unbowed and still willing for the win, he threw a lot of left hooks to Spinks. Spinks felt them.
Back and forth they went from the 13th to the last round, which is the 15th. There's only one winner. Braxton needed a knockout to win the fight. He is too tired. He couldn't stop Spinks.
By the end of the fight, both fighters received a standing ovation because of the technical skills and grit determination from both fighters.
The scoring went as follows:
Judge Tony Perez scored it 144-141 for Spinks.
Judge Frank Cappuccino scored it 144-141 for Spinks.
And Judge Tony Catellano scored it 144-140 for the new Undisputed and undefeated Light-Heavyweight Champion of the World!......... Michael Spinks!
I scored it 144-141, also for Spinks.
Both fighters received a title fight record for the Light-heavyweight division, a sum of $1.5 million dollars.
Spinks, improves to 23-0, with 16 knockouts in his sixth title defense. He becomes the first undisputed champion of the division since the great Bob Foster in 1972.
Braxton, age 30, drops to 19-2-1 with 12 knockouts. He changed his name in 1982 before this fight as Dwight Muhammad Qawi. But, because of marketing and promoting the fight, Spinks' promoter, Butch Lewis, thought that the last name Braxton was more suitable.
It wasn't the end for Dwight Muhammad Qawi. He couldn't make the 175lbs limit anymore and jumped up to cruiserweight. At cruiserweight, he became WBA World Cruiserweight Champion and lost the crown to the great Evander Holyfield in a war by decision in July 1986. Two years later, at heavyweight, he fought come backing former Heavyweight Champion of the World, the great Big George Foreman in 1988. Foreman knocked him out in 7 exciting rounds.
Qawi finally retired in 1998 with a record of 41-11-1 with 25 knockouts. The Camden Buzzsaw was inducted into the International Boxing Hall Fame in Canastota, NY in 2004.
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elmersalsa
- Heavyweight
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Re: The Top 100 Greatest Boxers Pound per Pound of All-Time
It was an emotional and inspirational win for the great Michael Spinks. He won the greatest fight of his professional career.
Earlier in the year, Spinks lost his common-law wife in a car accident, leaving his two-year old daughter, Michelle, without a mother.
He had to bring all these emotions and pain into the ring. It didn't deteriorate his composure nor game plan. He fought a terrific smart fight against a very dangerous opponent.
What's next for this great champion? A move to cruiserweight? It's not farfetched. How about a move to heavyweight to make much more money?
The sky is the limit for this formidable great champion.
Earlier in the year, Spinks lost his common-law wife in a car accident, leaving his two-year old daughter, Michelle, without a mother.
He had to bring all these emotions and pain into the ring. It didn't deteriorate his composure nor game plan. He fought a terrific smart fight against a very dangerous opponent.
What's next for this great champion? A move to cruiserweight? It's not farfetched. How about a move to heavyweight to make much more money?
The sky is the limit for this formidable great champion.