Best fights of Jimmy Ellis

Over 14 years as a professional, Jimmy Ellis compiled a 40-12-1 (24) record, including four title fights. Here are his best fights.

1. 1. Jimmy Ellis defeats Floyd Patterson

   On September 14, 1968 Jimmy Ellis defended his WBA heavyweight title against Floyd Patterson. Ellis was 28 years old with a record of 26-5, and Patterson was 33 with a record of 46-6-1. Ellis was on a 11-fight winning streak, while Patterson was coming off a loss. Ellis won via points decision. Defended the title.

2. 2. Jimmy Ellis defeats Oscar Bonavena

   On December 2, 1967 Jimmy Ellis faced Oscar Bonavena in a heavyweight bout. Ellis was 27 years old with a record of 24-5, and Bonavena was 25 with a record of 31-3. Ellis was on a 9-fight winning streak and Bonavena was on a 10-fight winning streak. Ellis won via unanimous decision.

3. 3. Jimmy Ellis defeats Jerry Quarry

   On April 27, 1968 Jimmy Ellis fought Jerry Quarry for the vacant WBA heavyweight title. Ellis was 28 years old with a record of 25-5, and Quarry was 22 with a record of 26-1-4. Ellis was on a 10-fight winning streak and Quarry was on a 3-fight winning streak. Ellis won via majority decision. Won the vacant title.

4. 4. Jimmy Ellis loses to Muhammad Ali via KO

   On July 26, 1971 Jimmy Ellis fought Muhammad Ali for the vacant WBC-NABF heavyweight title. Ellis was 31 years old with a record of 30-6, and Ali was 29 with a record of 31-1. Ellis was on a 3-fight winning streak, while Ali was coming off a loss. Ali stopped Ellis via TKO in the 12th round. Failed to win the vacant title. Lasted into the 12th round.