American · Newark, USA · Born 13 July 1956American professional boxer who became the first light heavyweight champion to win a heavyweight title, defeating Larry Holmes twice before losing to Mike Tyson
Michael Spinks became the first light heavyweight champion to win the heavyweight title when he defeated Larry Holmes in 1985. An intelligent, technical fighter trained by Eddie Futch, Spinks used his movement and angles to neutralise the larger Holmes twice. His brief but significant heavyweight career ended with a first-round knockout loss to Mike Tyson in 1988, but his light heavyweight legacy — where he went undefeated — is one of the division's finest.
Only light heavyweight to win heavyweight title
How They Played
Technical boxer with excellent footwork and counter-punching
Lasting Impact
First fighter to take heavyweight title from undefeated champion
Career Honours
- Olympic Gold Medalist (Middleweight) at the 1976 Montreal Olympics
- WBA Light Heavyweight Champion (1981–1985)
- IBF Heavyweight Champion (1985–1988)
- Undisputed Light Heavyweight Champion
- First Light Heavyweight Champion to win the Heavyweight Championship
- Ring Magazine Fighter of the Year 1983
- NABF Light Heavyweight Champion
- WBC/WBA/IBF Unified Light Heavyweight Champion recognition
American Athletes