James Smith (boxer)

James "Bonecrusher" Smith (born April 3, 1953) is a former American boxer who was briefly WBA heavyweight champion in the late 1980s. He is the first heavyweight champion with a college degree.

Early life

Smith was born in Magnolia, North Carolina. After graduating from high school in Warsaw, North Carolina, he attended James Sprunt Community College in Kenansville, North Carolina, earning an associate's degree in Business Administration in 1973. Two years later, he earned a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Amateur career

After serving in the US military (where he first played around with boxing in the gym) and working as a prison guard, Smith competed in a few amateur fights before turning professional in November 1981, at the late age of 28.

Pro career

He lost his first fight against James "Broad-Axe" Broad, a vastly experienced world class amateur and qualifier for the 1980 Olympics who was 2–0 as a pro. The fight was broadcast on ESPN, and Smith had come in on short notice and was not in great shape, looking out of depth against the skilled Broad. Smith was dropped in 4 rounds with body shots, and counted out.

The following year Smith upset future cruiserweight world champion and southpaw Ricky Parkey, then 2–0 as a pro, by winning a 6 round points decision. After scoring two knockouts,...
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