Leon Spinks

Date of Birth: July 11, 1953

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: February 5, 2021

Biography

Leon Spinks was an American professional boxer who gained worldwide fame for his extraordinary victory over Muhammad Ali in 1978. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Spinks began his career as an amateur, winning a gold medal in the light heavyweight division at the 1976 Summer Olympics. He turned professional later that year and quickly ascended the ranks of the heavyweight division. Spinks shocked the world when he defeated Ali in just his eighth professional fight, capturing the World Heavyweight Championship. Despite his historic win, Spinks’ career was marked by ups and downs, characterized by financial struggles and personal challenges. He continued to fight until the 1990s, and later faced health issues due to his boxing career. Leon Spinks passed away on February 5, 2021.

5 Interesting Facts about Leon Spinks

1. Leon Spinks won the gold medal in the light heavyweight division at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal.

2. Spinks defeated Muhammad Ali on February 15, 1978, in one of the biggest upsets in boxing history.

3. He served in the United States Marine Corps before becoming a professional boxer.

4. Spinks had a career record of 26 wins, 17 losses, and 3 draws.

5. He was inducted into the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame in 2017.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Leon Spinks

1. “I never turned down a fight. I never ducked anyone.”

2. “I love my family, and my fans mean the world to me.”

3. “I had my ups and downs, but I never stopped fighting.”

4. “Becoming a champion was a dream come true, but staying a champion was the hardest part.”

5. “I fought the best because I wanted to be the best.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At his peak, Leon Spinks’ net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.

Children

Leon Spinks had three children: 1. Leon Calvin Spinks, who tragically died in a shooting in 1990. 2. Cory Spinks, who became a professional boxer and held multiple world titles. 3. Darrell Spinks, who also pursued a career in boxing.