Biography

Ernie Terrell at one time was considered the Heavyweight Boxing Champion of the world, at least to the World Boxing Association who had stripped Muhammad Ali of his world championship after he met Sonny Liston in a rematch in 1965. At almost 6 feet 7 inches tall, Terrell has an outstanding amateur boxing background winning a Golden Gloves boxing title. In 1957 he turned professional under the management of "Big" Julie Isaacson. A lanky 198 pounds, Terrell was noted for his long jab and clutching style. He became a rated heavyweight contender when he decisioned Amos "Big Train" Lincoln in 10 rounds on June 9, 1962 in New York City. He followed with victories over top-10 rated Cleveland "Big Cat" Williams, Zora Folley and Bob Foster. As the number 2 contender in the world, he was matched with 4th rated Eddie Machen for the vacant WBA World Heavyweight Title when the WBA stripped Muhammad of his title for fighting ex-champ Sonny Liston. Terell defended his "title" successfully against George Chuvallo and Doug Jones, before being battered by Muhammad Ali in losing a 15 round decision in 1967. After losing decisions to Thad Spencer and Manuel Ramos, Ernie retired to pursue a singing career. In 1971 he made a comeback defeating 6 straight opponents including an upset knockout victor over 4th ranked Jose Luis Garcia. However in 1973, Terell lost a disputed 12 round decision to Chuck Wepner and than was knocked-out in one round by Jeff "Candy Slim" Merritt on September 10, 1973 in New York City. Terell retired following the Merritt fight and went on to become a highly successful promoter in Chicago.