Leotis Martin vs. Karl Mildenberger

Karl Mildenberger 205 lbs lost to Leotis Martin 194 lbs by KO in round 7 of 12

• Date: 1968-04-05
• Location: Festhalle, Frankfurt, Hessen, Germany
• Referee: Ben Bril

"American Leotis Martin knocked out European champion Karl Mildenberger in the 7th round of a scheduled 10 rounder before 7,000 fans here Friday night. Mildenberger was down twice in the 7th round from a series of strong hooks before Dutch referee Ben Bril signaled the end (after the 3rd knockdown). The bell sounded when Bril reached 'two' on his count but according to the rules the count continued and Mildenberger was unable to move. He was carried to his corner by handlers, bleeding from the mouth. Martin quickly familiarized himself with Mildenberger's southpaw style and consistently landed long rights on his opponent's chin. Martin clearly won the first three rounds before Mildenberger appeared to rally as the lighter American seemed to tire from the fast pace. However, Martin closed the 6th round with a stinging left hook that signaled the beginning of the end." -Associated Press

• This bout scuttled plans for a proposed Sonny Liston - Karl Mildenberger bout later in the year. Also, British promoter Harry Levene stated he would lose interest in a Mildenberger - Henry Cooper bout for the European title if the German could not get past Martin. However, the Mildenberger - Cooper fight did take place several months later.