When Don King announced that Jones would be next for Holmes—before Holmes had even defended against Lorenzo Zanon—the old bugaboo was back: “The Easton Assassin” was targeting tomato cans. This narrative was something Holmes bitterly assessed before the fight. “There’s so much conniving and scheming in boxing, there are days when I feel like I don’t want anything more to do with it,” Holmes fumed. “I win, but it’s never because of how good I am, always that my opponent is weak.” Jones had emerged from boxing outposts such as Denver and Wichita (as well as the seedy Las Vegas club scene) to challenge for a distinction that still retained a mythic power over the sporting public—even if it was now a disputed crown thanks to the limitless imbecility of dueling sanctioning bodies. Although Holmes had been the beneficiary of WBC chicanery in 1978, when he won a paper title from Ken Norton via narrow decision, he was in no mood to acknowledge Tate or his renegade WBA crown. “I’m the only true champion, and the people know it,” said Holmes. “If television, AP or UPI wants to say there are two champions, I can’t tell them what to say. But I think I’ve proven myself and regardless of what goes on elsewhere.” Part VI of a series on the title reign of Larry Holmes. I think historical articles should be shared for debate, illumination, interpretation, etc. https://hannibalboxing.com/shoot-the-moon-the-title-reign-of-larry-holmes-part-vi-leroy-jones/
