Leon Spinks (July 11, 1953 – February 5, 2021) was an American professional boxer who competed from 1977 to 1995. In only his eighth professional fight, he won the undisputed heavyweight championship in 1978 after defeating Muhammad Ali in a split decision , in what is considered one of the biggest upsets in boxing history.

Pro debut for Spinks ©BoxRec is the official record keeper for 410 sports authorities worldwide, it is not under direct control of any single authority. Data may be incomplete/inaccurate.

Feb 6, 2021 · Leon Spinks, who scored one of boxing’s greatest upsets when he defeated Muhammad Ali to capture the heavyweight championship in February 1978, but lost his crown in a rematch seven months...

Feb 7, 2021 · LAS VEGAS — Leon Spinks, who won Olympic gold and then shocked the boxing world by beating Muhammad Ali to win the heavyweight title in only his eighth pro fight, has died. He was 67.

Feb 6, 2021 · Leon Spinks, who surprised the boxing world by beating Muhammad Ali for the world heavyweight title in 1978, died Friday night at age 67, according to the Firm PR, a public relations firm that...

Feb 6, 2021 · Leon Spinks, heavyweight champ who beat Muhammad Ali in a 1978 upset victory, died Friday after battling prostate cancer at the age of 67.

Feb 1, 2025 · Leon Spinks (born July 11, 1953, St. Louis, Missouri, U.S.—died February 5, 2021, Henderson, Nevada) was an American boxer who won an Olympic gold medal in 1976 and was the world heavyweight champion in 1978.