Leon Spinks July 11, 1953 – February 5, 2021, was an American professional boxer who competed from 1977 to 1995. In only his eighth professional fight, he beat Muhamed Ali to become the undisputed heavyweight championship in 1978. At the time a lower-ranked contender made history by beating Muhammad Ali on a 15-round split decision in Las Vegas, Nevada
After defeating Muhammad Ali in a split decision, in what was considered one of the biggest upsets in boxing history. Spinks was later stripped of the WBC title for facing Ali in an unapproved rematch seven months later, which he lost by unanimous decision. Spinks fought his battles with numerous illnesses resiliently but never lost his trademark smile.
The former heavyweight champion died at a young 67. He rose to prominence when he beat Ali for the heavyweight title in 1978. Had only 7 professional fights under his belt when he got in the ring with Ali. Spinks was born in St. Louis, the oldest of seven children of Leon and Kay Spinks, who separated when he was a child. The family was poor and the neighborhood was tough.
Leon Spinks, boxing's former heavyweight champion, dead at 67 http://reut.rs/3tx7GN7
Boxing legend Leon Spinks Jr. dies after battle with multiple cancers trib.al/jg2sggN
