Leroy Jones (boxer)

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Leroy Jones, born February 10, 1950, was a moderately successful American boxer born in Denver, Colorado.

[edit] Boxing career

Jones' professional career began with a third round knockout of John Scroggins on July 30, 1973. His next fight was against undefeated Larry Frazier, whom he defeated in six by decision. His next two fights against Joe Anderson and Paul Solomon ended in first round knockouts. Things were looking good for Jones as he ran his record to 24-0 against a collection of fighters ranging from very good to very mediocre. However, during this time it became apparent that Jones had a real problem with conditioning, as he fought at weights ranging from 228 pounds in 1973 to 271 pounds in 1977.

On March 31, 1980 Jones got his weight down to 254.5 pounds for a match against champion Larry Holmes for the WBC title. The fight ended in 8th round TKO loss for Jones. Jones' career went on temporary hiatus due to a detached retina suffered against Holmes, ^[1] but Jones was able to return to the ring once more on August 26, 1982 when he knocked out journeyman Jeff Shelburg in eight rounds, but his weight was up again, to a career high of 275 pounds.

With that Jones' professional boxing career came to a close. Fans may speculate at the reason for his unexpected retirement; theories include deteriorating health, lack of an appetite for training, and lack of toughness (the only knockout loss of his life came in the second-to-last fight of his career). But in the end Jones retired with a 25-1 record following a knockout win, and the reason is a mystery. The final result is that Jones has been labeled a member of the "Lost Generation of Heavyweights." ^[2]