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RIP: Leon Spinks

RIP: Leon Spinks
06 Feb
2021
Not in Hall of Fame

Former Heavyweight Champion, Leon Spinks, passed away today following a long battle with cancer.  He was 67. 

At the 1976 Montreal Olympics, Spinks represented the United States and won Gold in the Light Heavyweight division.  Spinks turned pro, and in only his eighth fight, defeated the Muhammed Ali for the Heavyweight Championship.  This was the highlight of his career, as Spinks lost the title back to Ali seven months later.

Spinks challenged Larry Holmes for the Heavyweight Title in 1981, but lost via TKO in the 3rdround. He later dropped down in weight, and challenged for the WBA Cruiserweight Title but lost to the incumbent, Dwight Muhammad Qawi.  

Spinks still had a name but over the rest of his career, he lost more than he won.  His last fight was in 1995, and he retired with a record of 26-17-3. 

Spinks’ younger brother, Michael, was also a former Heavyweight Champion, and his son, Cory, is a former World Welterweight Champion.

We here at Notinhalloffame.com would like to extend our condolences to the fans, friends and family of Leon Spinks.

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