Ken Norton

The Great Ken Norton Would Have Been 80 Today

The Great Ken Norton Would Have Been 80 Today

For a fighter who, aside from having so many positively fine assets, “couldn’t take a big punch”, former WBC heavyweight champ Ken Norton sure faced a who’s who of heavyweight bangers – George Foreman, Earnie Shavers, Jerry Quarry (not an all-out banger but a puncher with authority), Larry Holmes (also, no lethal tranquilliser but a solid puncher all the same), Gerry Cooney, and one or two other guys.… read more “The Great Ken Norton Would Have Been 80 Today”

On This Day: Ken Norton Bursts Duane Bobick’s Bubble Courtesy Of A First Round KO

On This Day: Ken Norton Bursts Duane Bobick's Bubble Courtesy Of A First Round KO

Talk about a heavily hyped fighter being utterly and ruthlessly exposed. On this day in 1977, 26-year-old “Great White Hope” Duane Bobick, trained by the great Eddie Futch, put his glossy 38-0(32) pro record on the line against the fear greater experienced (and just far greater fighter, period) Ken Norton.… read more “On This Day: Ken Norton Bursts Duane Bobick’s Bubble Courtesy Of A First Round KO”

George Foreman Vs. Ken Norton – A 49 Year Old Display Of Chilling Punch Accuracy

George Foreman Vs. Ken Norton – A 49 Year Old Display Of Chilling Punch Accuracy

It’s not the 50th anniversary of a memorable fight, but it’s pretty darn close at 49 years. It was on this day in March of 1974 when a peaking George Foreman made the second defense of the world heavyweight title; this seemingly “Big George’s” personal, you-dare-take-it-from him-at-your-own-risk property at the time.… read more “George Foreman Vs. Ken Norton – A 49 Year Old Display Of Chilling Punch Accuracy”

45 Years Ago Today: Ali Vs. Norton III – A Taxing, Physical Chess Match

45 Years Ago Today: Ali Vs. Norton III – A Taxing, Physical Chess Match

45 years ago, the one and only Muhammad Ali ruled the roost as far as the talent-rich heavyweight division was concerned. Ali, at age 34, was not the sublime, untouchable dancing master he had been; nor was he the superbly conditioned warrior who had taken everything a primed George Foreman could offer.… read more “45 Years Ago Today: Ali Vs. Norton III – A Taxing, Physical Chess Match”