Fight:634987

Ernie Collins 183 lbs beat Ford Smith 205 lbs by TKO in round 6 of 10

• Date: 1939-06-02
• Location: Olympic Arena, Reno, Nevada, USA
• Referee: George Cunningham

From the Nevada State Journal: "The knockout came after Collins gritted his teeth, waded into the the tremendous swings from the 205-pound Reno giant and landed his famous overhand 'scalp punch.' Smith rocked back on his heels, hands at his sides, as the Shoshone brave braced himself and delivered punch after punch without return. The courageous Smith went glassy-eyed, reeled twice in complete circles and came crashing to the canvas with a resounding thud." After rising at the count of eight, Smith "floundered about helplessly as Collins wearily plodded after him for the kill. Collins pumped in rights and lefts to the face as Smith, out on his feet, slumped into the ropes. Referee Cunningham stepped in and halted the battle without the formality of a count just as the towel came sailing in from Smith's corner. The crowd roared a tribute to both men, for each took a terrific beating."