Share on FacebookTweet about this on TwitterShare on LinkedInPin on PinterestEmail to someone

On June 12, 1981, Larry Holmes defeated Leon Spinks to retain the WBC heavyweight boxing title he had first claimed just over three years earlier with a split decision over Ken Norton.

Today in Sports History presented by Starr Cards

Holmes would go on to defend his crown ten more times, before losing to Spinks’ brother Michael in a 15-round bout on September 21, 1985.

HOLMES VS SPINKS

Holmes entered the fight with Spinks with a perfect 37-0 record with 27 of the wins coming by KO. Legendary announcer Howard Cosell called the action as Homes cruised to a relatively easy 3rd round victory by TKO.

Embed from Getty Images

In all, Holmes made 20 successful title defenses, placing him behind only Joe Louis at 25, and much later, Wladimir Klitschko at 22.