When did Sonny Liston become the world heavyweight champion?
A dominant contender of his era, he became the world heavyweight champion in 1962 after knocking out Floyd Patterson in the first round, repeating the knockout the following year in defense of the title; in the latter fight he also became the inaugural WBC heavyweight champion.
How old was Sonny Liston when he went to prison?
When caught in January 1950, Liston gave his age as 20, while the St. Louis Globe-Democrat reported that he was 22. Convicted and sentenced to five years in Missouri State Penitentiary, Liston started his prison time on June 1, 1950. Liston never complained about prison, saying he was guaranteed three meals every day.
Why was Sonny Liston called the yellow shirt bandit?
Liston turned to crime and led a gang of thugs who committed muggings and armed robberies. Because of the shirt he wore during robberies, the St. Louis police called Liston the “Yellow Shirt Bandit.”. When caught in January 1950, Liston gave his age as 20, while the St. Louis Globe-Democrat reported that he was 22.
What was the name of the movie about Sonny Liston?
Liston was the subject of a 1995 HBO documentary titled Sonny Liston: The Mysterious Life and Death of a Champion . In the 2001 film Ali, Liston was portrayed by former WBO Heavyweight Champion Michael Bentt . Liston was the subject of a 2008 feature film based upon his life titled Phantom Punch.
What kind of stare does Sonny Liston have?
Sonny Liston is a remarkable physical specimen, and seldom if ever has a fighter so dominated the sport by sheer muscular mass. His baleful, obsidian stare intimidates fighters, sportswriters and the occupants of the first 20 rows of any arena he enters.
Who is the son of Zora Folley?
Robert Folley, son of Zora Folley, was fighting in the light heavyweight division making his pro debut at the Felt Forum, on June 19, 1986. ^ Dundee, Angelo; Bert Sugar (2009).
Who are some famous people Zora Folley beat?
Folley beat contenders Eddie Machen, George Chuvalo, Bob Cleroux (twice), Oscar Bonavena (the first match was one sided with Bonavena being decked but Bonavena won the rematch three years later) and Doug Jones. He also had draws with Karl Mildenberger and Eddie Machen (their first fight).