40 years ago

Tim Witherspoon vs James Bonecrusher Smith

Fight Information
  • Date:
  • Venue: Riviera Hotel & Casino , Las Vegas , Nevada
  • Title: NABF Heavyweight Title
  • Promoter: Don King
  • Referee: Richard Steele
  • TV: HBO World Championship Boxing
Fighters Information
Tim Witherspoon

Record: 25-2-0

Weight: 221½ lbs

James Smith

Record: 18-5-0

Weight: 228¾ lbs

Fight Summary

Tim Witherspoon defended his North American Boxing Federation (NABF) Heavyweight title against James 'Bonecrusher' Smith on June 15, 1985, on a Don King-promoted card. The fight demonstrated the gap in class between the two heavyweights over twelve rounds.

Witherspoon controlled the action throughout, with his superior boxing skills evident as he repeatedly outmanoeuvred and outboxed Smith. Under referee Richard Steele's supervision, the champion put on a masterclass, reflected in the unanimous scoring. All three judges - Dick Cole, John McSweeney, and Dave Moretti - turned in identical scorecards of 119-109 in Witherspoon's favour.

The bout represented Witherspoon's first defence of his NABF title, and while Smith showed durability in lasting the distance, he could not mount any significant offence against the champion. The one-sided nature of the contest was evident in the scoring, with Smith claiming just a single round on each judge's card.

Tim Witherspoon vs James Bonecrusher Smith on YouTube

Tim Witherspoon vs James Bonecrusher Smith YouTube thumbnail


Frequently Asked Questions About Tim Witherspoon vs James Bonecrusher Smith

When did Tim Witherspoon vs James Bonecrusher Smith take place?

Tim Witherspoon vs James Bonecrusher Smith took place on 15th June 1985, 40 years ago at Riviera Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada.

Where was Tim Witherspoon vs James Bonecrusher Smith held?

The fight was held at Riviera Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada.

What title was at stake in Tim Witherspoon vs James Bonecrusher Smith?

Tim Witherspoon and James Smith contested the NABF Heavyweight Title on 15th June 1985.

What were the fighters' records going into Tim Witherspoon vs James Bonecrusher Smith?

Tim Witherspoon entered with a record of 25-2-0 at 221½ lbs. James Smith had a record of 18-5-0 at 228¾ lbs.

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