Kenneth Howard Norton Sr. was an American professional boxer who competed from 1967-81. He knew how to shine in one of the best times of the queen division of boxing, his career as a fighter is divided into many memorable nights and others where the glory was not in his favor.
His career as a professional boxer began on November 14, 1967 when he defeated Grady Brazell by TKO. In the first 16 bouts of he accumulated victories that led him to possess the record of [16 (15KOs) -0-0]. His progress in professionalism seemed to be on the rise, so much so that "The Ring Magazine" had already named him as a prospect, but in match number 17, he lost surprisingly when he faced the Venezuelan José Luis García who beat him by KO.
After recovering from his first surprise loss, Norton racked up a string of victories that led to his first big chance and clinched a TKO victory over respected contender Henry Clark. This helped her get worldwide recognition for him.
Then he had a fight in which he beat Charlie Reno for UD, the next was the most important fight in Norton's career, the next fight was against the legendary Muhammad Alli. Joe Frazier who was training with Norton and had already defeated Alli said before the match: "He will have a lot of problems!" (referring to Alli).
Alli and Norton would meet in the ring for the first time on March 31, 1973 in which Alli was a 5-1 favorite, but Norton would surprise and win by SD over Ali, who had lost only to Joe Frazier. In that fight, Alli's jaw was broken due to strong blows from Norton, he connected, after completing this victory Norton would obtain the NABF title.
Within a few months the rematch match between Alli and Norton would become a reality and on September 10, 1973 they would meet again in the ring, this time Norton as champion and Ali as challenger, the match would result in a victory for Ali by SD. Some writers referenced Norton's overtraining for that match and the fact that Ken weighed 206lb (5 pounds less than in his first match) lent more credence to that hypothesis.
After not being successful in his first defense of his title, Norton would take another challenge with the intentions of being champion again and in 1974 he would face the historic George Foreman in Caracas, Venezuela, for the world heavyweight championship. The match generated great expectations among fans around the world.
After two losses in major bouts, many predicted decline in Norton's young career, but the reality was different. To be considered a legend, getting up is not an option, it is an obligation. Some consecrating nights were to come in Ken Norton's career.
RESPECT FOR A GIANT IN HISTORY.
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