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Michael Dokes
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Michael Dokes
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Michael Marshall Dokes (August 10, 1958 – August 11, 2012) was an American professional boxer who competed from 1976 to 1997, and held the WBA heavyweight title from 1982 to 1983. As an amateur he won a silver medal in the heavyweight division at the 1975 Pan American Games.

Key Information

Amateur career

[edit]

Dokes won a silver medal at the 1975 Pan American Games. He lost a 5–0 decision to Teófilo Stevenson in the finals. He also lost a close decision to John Tate in the Olympic trials in 1976, after which he turned professional.

Amateur accomplishments

[edit]
  • 1975 National AAU Heavyweight Champion
  • 1976 National Golden Gloves Heavyweight Champion, beating future pro champs John Tate and Greg Page en route.
  • As an underage 15-year-old, made it to the finals of both the 1974 National Golden Gloves and the National AAU tournaments. He lost to Leon Spinks in AAU final, and future Mike Tyson trainer Bobby Stewart in the Golden Gloves final.
  • Won 1974 North American championships.
  • Beat Marvin Stinson, who won the 1976 National AAU Heavyweight Championship.

Professional career

[edit]

Dokes turned professional in 1976. He received national exposure in a televised exhibition with Muhammad Ali in 1977, which saw Ali clown and mug while slipping Dokes's punches, but also revealed glimpses of Dokes's potential.[1] He came to real prominence in 1979 by defeating veteran contender Jimmy Young. His career faltered slightly after fighting to a draw with Ossie Ocasio, but Dokes returned to knock out Ocasio in one round soon thereafter. By early 1982, after a first-round knockout of Lynn Ball to win the NABF title, Dokes was in line for a title shot. He was ranked #2 by the WBC and #3 by the WBA. Dokes became WBA heavyweight champion in 1982 by knocking out Mike Weaver in the first round in a match held weeks after the Ray Mancini-Duk Koo Kim lightweight title fight that ended in Kim's death. Because of Nevada State Athletic Commission instructions to referee Joey Curtis regarding the stoppage of the fight in light of the incident, some felt it was premature. In the rematch, Dokes retained his title on a majority draw (tie).

Dokes's reign as the WBA title holder was short-lived. He lost his title by a tenth-round knockout to Gerrie Coetzee. He was later knocked out by future champion Evander Holyfield.

Dokes was knocked out by Donovan Ruddock in 1990. In 1993, Dokes faced newly crowned heavyweight champion Riddick Bowe in his first title defense since defeating Evander Holyfield. Bowe won by TKO in the first round. Although Dokes and his team protested that the fight was stopped prematurely, it was obvious that Dokes was in no condition to continue after taking a vicious barrage of punches from the heavy-hitting Bowe. After a nearly three-year hiatus, Dokes returned to the ring winning three of five matches over a two-year period before retiring for good in 1997.

Life after boxing

[edit]

In 1999 Dokes was sentenced to between four and 15 years in prison after being convicted of an attack on his fiancée in August 1998. Late in 2008, Dokes was released on parole.[2] Dokes died of liver cancer at a hospice in Akron in August 2012, a day after his 54th birthday.[3][4]

Professional boxing record

[edit]
61 fights 53 wins 6 losses
By knockout 34 5
By decision 19 1
Draws 2
No. Result Record Opponent Type Round, time Date Location Notes
61 Loss 53–6–2 Paul Phillips TKO 2 (10) Oct 11, 1997 Peels Palace, Erlanger, Kentucky, U.S.
60 Loss 53–5–2 Louis Monaco PTS 10 Apr 5, 1997 Aztlan Theatre, Denver, Colorado, U.S.
59 Win 53–4–2 Doug Davis PTS 10 Dec 10, 1996 Tempe, Arizona, U.S.
58 Win 52–4–2 Dave Fiddler KO 2 (10) Jul 27, 1996 Lucky Eagle Casino, Rochester, Washington, U.S.
57 Win 51–4–2 Dave Slaughter KO 3 Nov 18, 1995 Aurora, Colorado, U.S.
56 Loss 50–4–2 Riddick Bowe TKO 1 (12), 2:19 Feb 6, 1993 Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S. For WBA and IBF heavyweight titles
55 Win 50–3–2 Barry Forbes UD 10 Oct 27, 1992 Phoenix, Arizona, U.S.
54 Win 49–3–2 Jose Ribalta UD 10 Oct 6, 1992 Mahi Shrine Temple, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.
53 Win 48–3–2 Jesse Ferguson UD 10 Jul 28, 1992 Broadway by the Bay Theater, Atlantic City, New Jersey, U.S.
52 Win 47–3–2 Danny Sutton KO 3 (10), 2:54 Apr 16, 1992 Paramount Theatre, New York City, New York, U.S.
51 Win 46–3–2 Percell Davis RTD 5 (10), 3:00 Mar 21, 1992 CSU Convocation Center, Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.
50 Win 45–3–2 Danny Wofford TKO 9 (10), 2:10 Feb 14, 1992 The Aladdin, Paradise, Nevada, U.S.
49 Win 44–3–2 Danny Stonewalker TKO 6 (10), 2:39 Jan 21, 1992 Union Plaza Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.
48 Win 43–3–2 Tyrone Armstrong KO 4 (10), 1:32 Dec 27, 1991 Union Plaza Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.
47 Win 42–3–2 John Morton PTS 8 Nov 29, 1991 The Mirage, Paradise, Nevada, U.S.
46 Loss 41–3–2 Donovan Ruddock KO 4 (12), 0:53 Apr 4, 1990 Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S. Lost WBA Inter-Continental heavyweight title
45 Win 41–2–2 Jorge Alfredo Dascola TKO 11 (12), 1:05 Feb 5, 1990 Great Western Forum, Inglewood, California, U.S. Retained WBA Inter-Continental heavyweight title
44 Win 40–2–2 Lionel Washington TKO 8 (12), 0:49 Nov 13, 1989 Great Western Forum, Inglewood, California, U.S. Won vacant WBA Inter-Continental heavyweight title
43 Win 39–2–2 Wesley Watson TKO 3 (10), 2:25 Aug 24, 1989 Felt Forum, New York City, New York, U.S.
42 Win 38–2–2 Bobby Crabtree KO 1 (10), 1:46 Jul 13, 1989 Felt Forum, New York City, New York, U.S.
41 Loss 37–2–2 Evander Holyfield TKO 10 (12), 1:41 Mar 11, 1989 Caesars Palace, Paradise, Nevada, U.S. Lost WBC Continental Americas heavyweight title
40 Win 37–1–2 Rocky Sekorski UD 12 Dec 9, 1988 Convention Hall, Atlantic City, New Jersey, U.S. Retained WBC Continental Americas heavyweight title
39 Win 36–1–2 Curtis Isaac TKO 4 (10), 2:21 Oct 27, 1988 Felt Forum, New York City, New York, U.S.
38 Win 35–1–2 Manoel De Almeida RTD 4 (10), 3:00 Jul 28, 1988 Felt Forum, New York City, New York, U.S.
37 Win 34–1–2 Andrew Stokes TKO 1 (10), 2:58 Jun 27, 1988 Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.
36 Win 33–1–2 James Pritchard TKO 7 (12), 2:32 Apr 28, 1988 Felt Forum, New York City, New York, U.S. Won vacant WBC Continental Americas heavyweight title
35 Win 32–1–2 Eddie Richardson TKO 10 (10), 2:15 Feb 24, 1988 Felt Forum, New York City, New York, U.S.
34 Win 31–1–2 Ken Lakusta TKO 7 (10), 2:52 Jan 22, 1988 Convention Hall, Atlantic City, New Jersey, U.S.
33 Win 30–1–2 Kevin Porter TKO 5 (10), 0:25 Dec 17, 1987 Felt Forum, New York City, New York, U.S.
32 Win 29–1–2 Randall Cobb TD 4 (12), 1:03 Mar 15, 1985 Riviera, Winchester, Nevada, U.S. Won vacant WBC Continental Americas heavyweight title;
Majority TD after Dokes was cut from an accidental head clash
31 Win 28–1–2 Young Louis TKO 2 (10), 2:29 Feb 16, 1985 Andy Murphy Midtown Neighborhood Center, Kingston, New York, U.S.
30 Win 27–1–2 Mike Jameson UD 10 Aug 31, 1984 Riviera, Winchester, Nevada, U.S.
29 Loss 26–1–2 Gerrie Coetzee KO 10 (15), 3:08 Sep 23, 1983 Coliseum, Richfield, Ohio, U.S. Lost WBA heavyweight title
28 Draw 26–0–2 Mike Weaver MD 15 May 20, 1983 Dunes, Paradise, Nevada, U.S. Retained WBA heavyweight title
27 Win 26–0–1 Mike Weaver TKO 1 (15), 1:03 Dec 10, 1982 Caesars Palace, Paradise, Nevada, U.S. Won WBA heavyweight title
26 Win 25–0–1 Tommy Franco Thomas KO 5 (12), 1:33 Mar 20, 1982 Playboy Hotel and Casino, Atlantic City, New Jersey, U.S. Retained NABF heavyweight title
25 Win 24–0–1 Lynn Ball TKO 1 (12), 2:56 Jan 30, 1982 Caesars Palace, Paradise, Nevada, U.S. Won NABF heavyweight title
24 Win 23–0–1 George Chaplin UD 10 Nov 6, 1981 Civic Arena, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.
23 Win 22–0–1 Harry Terrell KO 1 (10), 1:25 Aug 9, 1981 Public Hall, Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.
22 Win 21–0–1 John L. Gardner KO 4 (10), 1:54 Jun 12, 1981 Joe Louis Arena, Detroit, Michigan, U.S.
21 Win 20–0–1 Randall Cobb MD 10 Mar 22, 1981 Caesars Palace, Paradise, Nevada, U.S.
20 Win 19–0–1 Tom Fischer TKO 7 (10), 1:17 Oct 2, 1980 Caesars Palace, Paradise, Nevada, U.S.
19 Win 18–0–1 Ossie Ocasio TKO 1 (10), 2:33 Jun 27, 1980 San Juan, Puerto Rico
18 Draw 17–0–1 Ossie Ocasio SD 10 Apr 19, 1980 San Juan, Puerto Rico
17 Win 17–0 Lucien Rodriguez UD 10 Feb 10, 1980 Convention Center, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.
16 Win 16–0 Earl Tripp KO 1 (10), 2:59 Jan 13, 1980 Caesars Palace, Paradise, Nevada, U.S.
15 Win 15–0 Jimmy Young UD 10 Sep 28, 1979 Caesars Palace, Paradise, Nevada, U.S.
14 Win 14–0 Willie McIntyre KO 2 (10), 2:56 Jul 20, 1979 Auditorium, West Palm Beach, Florida, U.S.
13 Win 13–0 Greg Sorrentino KO 3 (10) May 12, 1979 Caesars Palace, Paradise, Nevada, U.S.
12 Win 12–0 Wendell Bailey SD 10 Mar 23, 1979 Las Vegas Hilton, Winchester, Nevada, U.S.
11 Win 11–0 Ira Martin TKO 8 (8), 1:51 Dec 8, 1978 Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.
10 Win 10–0 Eugene Green UD 8 Oct 27, 1978 Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.
9 Win 9–0 Terry Mims UD 8 Sep 26, 1978 Convention Center, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.
8 Win 8–0 Dan Johnson UD 6 Apr 29, 1978 The Forum, Inglewood, California, U.S.
7 Win 7–0 Abdul Khan UD 8 Mar 25, 1978 Caesars Palace, Paradise, Nevada, U.S.
6 Win 6–0 George Holden KO 2 (8) Mar 3, 1978 Rif Stadion, Willemstad, Netherlands Antilles
5 Win 5–0 Ed Turner PTS 6 Apr 10, 1977 Fontainbleau, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.
4 Win 4–0 Charlie Jordan TKO 3 (4) Mar 6, 1977 Correctional Facility, Marion, Ohio, U.S.
3 Win 3–0 Dave Wilson PTS 4 Jan 29, 1977 Fontainebleau, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.
2 Win 2–0 Sergio Rodriguez TKO 2 Jan 16, 1977 USS Lexington (CV-16), Pensacola, Florida, U.S.
1 Win 1–0 Al Byrd RTD 2 (4), 3:00 Oct 15, 1976 Hollywood Sportatorium, Pembroke Pines, Florida, U.S.

Exhibition boxing record

[edit]
1 fight 0 wins 0 losses
Non-scored 1
No. Result Record Opponent Type Round, time Date Location Notes
1 N/a 0–0 (1) United States Muhammad Ali N/a 3 Apr 16, 1977 United States Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S. Non-scored bout

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Michael Dokes

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from Grokipedia
Michael Dokes (August 10, 1958 – August 11, 2012) was an American professional boxer who competed in the heavyweight division, best known for winning the (WBA) heavyweight championship in 1982 via a controversial first-round technical over champion Mike Weaver. Born in , Dokes began his boxing career as an amateur, compiling a record of 147 wins and 7 losses, highlighted by victories as the 1974 North American light heavyweight champion, the 1975 National AAU heavyweight champion, and the 1976 National heavyweight champion, along with a silver medal in the heavyweight division at the 1975 . He reached the semifinals of the 1976 U.S. Olympic Trials but lost to John Tate, ending his amateur aspirations. Dokes turned professional in the late and quickly rose through the ranks with his powerful punching style and "," standing at 6 feet 3 inches with an 78-inch reach. His career-defining moment came on December 10, 1982, when he captured the WBA title against Weaver in just 1 minute and 3 seconds at in , though the stoppage by referee Joey Curtis drew immediate protests from Weaver's camp for being premature. He retained the belt in a controversial 15-round draw against Weaver on May 20, 1983, before losing it by tenth-round knockout to on September 23, 1983, in —a fight for which Dokes later admitted using and alcohol during training. Throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, Dokes remained a top contender, engaging in high-profile bouts including a unanimous decision victory over Randall "Tex" Cobb in 1985 and a narrow split decision loss to Oliver McCall in 1990. His most celebrated fight was on March 11, 1989, against unified heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield at Caesars Palace, where he was stopped in the tenth round after a thrilling back-and-forth battle that The Ring magazine named the best heavyweight fight of the 1980s. Dokes also challenged Riddick Bowe for the WBA and WBC titles in 1993, losing by majority decision at Madison Square Garden. Over his professional career spanning from 1976 to 1997, he amassed a record of 53 wins (34 by knockout), 6 losses, and 2 draws in 61 fights. Dokes's life outside the ring was marked by significant personal struggles, including battles with drug addiction that impacted his career trajectory. In 2000, he was convicted of , , and after attacking his girlfriend, Sandra Kaye Cummings, and sentenced to 10 years in prison; he was paroled in 2008. Dokes died of on August 11, 2012, at a in Akron at the age of 54.

Early Life

Upbringing in Akron

Michael Marshall Dokes was born on August 10, 1958, in . He grew up in a working-class family with his parents, Gordon and Sopora Dokes, and siblings including brothers Kevin, Steven, and , as well as sister Alisa Dokes Williams. Akron during the 1960s and served as a major industrial hub, particularly known as the "Rubber Capital of the World," where the revolved around and related factories that employed much of the local working-class population. Dokes and his family resided in a modest neighborhood on Rhodes Avenue near Thornton Street, an area emblematic of the city's blue-collar communities amid the post-World War II industrial boom. The era brought economic challenges for many families like the Dokeses, as Akron's sector began to decline in the due to and factory relocations, leading to job losses and financial strain in working-class households. These conditions shaped the in Akron's African American communities, where economic pressures and limited opportunities influenced daily life and family dynamics for residents like the young Dokes. Growing up in this environment, Dokes navigated the typical challenges of a working-class upbringing, including the uncertainties of an industrial economy in transition.

Introduction to Boxing

Michael Dokes began his journey into around the age of 13 in 1971, drawn to the sport amid Akron, Ohio's longstanding tradition of producing resilient fighters from its working-class neighborhoods. The city's gritty industrial backdrop, with its rubber factories and blue-collar ethos, fostered a culture where served as an outlet for young athletes seeking discipline and opportunity, briefly instilling in Dokes the toughness that would define his approach to the ring. In the local gyms of Akron, Dokes quickly found guidance from early mentors like Sonny Oliver, a longtime trainer and boyhood acquaintance who first met the young prospect that year and recognized his innate athleticism, explosive power, and raw potential. Oliver, who would remain in Dokes' corner for years, helped channel the teenager's natural gifts into structured training, emphasizing the basics of the sport from the outset. Under such local influences, Dokes immersed himself in the fundamentals, rapidly developing solid footwork and devastating punching power that set him apart even in his initial sessions. Dokes made his amateur debut in regional tournaments around Akron shortly after starting, where his quick adaptation to the demands of competition became evident through a series of early victories showcasing his aggressive style. These local bouts highlighted his ability to learn , blending with force to overwhelm opponents and earn him a reputation as a rising talent in Ohio's circuit. It was during this formative period that Dokes acquired his enduring , "Dynamite," bestowed upon him for the explosive, fast-handed knockouts that marked his style from the very beginning, a moniker that captured his dynamic presence in the ranks.

Amateur Career

National Championships

As a 15-year-old, Dokes reached the finals of the 1974 National AAU Championship, losing to , and the 1974 National Championship, losing to . In 1975, as a 16-year-old, Michael Dokes captured the National AAU Heavyweight Championship in , defeating Jimmy Clark in the final by points decision. This victory marked his emergence as a dominant force in U.S. , showcasing his technical prowess and physical maturity in the heavyweight division. Building on this success, Dokes entered the 1976 National tournament in , where he claimed the Heavyweight Championship by defeating Woody Clark in the final. En route to the title, he secured notable wins over future professional champions John Tate and Greg Page, demonstrating his ability to outmaneuver and overpower skilled opponents in high-stakes bouts. These triumphs solidified his status within the amateur ranks and highlighted his rapid development as a complete fighter. His preparation for these national championships, influenced by his roots in , involved a rigorous training regimen focused on building explosive hand speed and knockout power, which became hallmarks of his style. Dokes emphasized drills that enhanced his footwork and combination punching, allowing him to blend agility with devastating force during tournament competition. Following his 1976 Golden Gloves victory, Dokes was widely recognized as one of the top amateur heavyweight prospects in the United States, with an impressive overall amateur record that underscored his potential for professional success. This acclaim positioned him as a standout talent ready to transition to the paid ranks.

International Competitions

Dokes represented the United States at the 1975 Pan American Games in Mexico City, where he competed in the heavyweight division and earned a silver medal. In the tournament, he advanced through the quarterfinals with a victory over Venezuela's Carlos Rivera and the semifinals against Canada's Trevor Berbick, whom he defeated by unanimous decision over three rounds. In the final bout on October 25, 1975, Dokes faced Cuba's three-time Olympic gold medalist Teófilo Stevenson in a highly anticipated matchup. Stevenson, known for his overwhelming power and technical prowess, outpointed Dokes in a close 3-2 split decision, denying him the gold. The competition exposed Dokes to contrasting international boxing styles, including Stevenson's aggressive Cuban pressure fighting and Berbick's resilient Jamaican approach, which broadened his understanding of global amateur tactics. Building on his national championship wins, Dokes entered the 1976 U.S. Olympic trials as a top contender but was eliminated in the semifinals after a narrow decision loss to John Tate. Opting against further amateur pursuits, he turned professional later that year, confident in his readiness for the paid ranks following these high-level experiences. Dokes' amateur career concluded with a strong record of 147 wins and 7 losses, highlighted by his undefeated performance in the key bouts that led to his international selection.

Professional Career

Debut and Rise (1976–1981)

Michael Dokes turned professional on October 15, 1976, at the age of 18, stopping Al Byrd via second-round retirement (RTD) in a four-round bout at the Hollywood Sportatorium in Pembroke Pines, Florida. This debut victory, part of an undercard featuring George Foreman, showcased Dokes' explosive punching power early on, earning him the nickname "Dynamite." Dokes quickly built momentum with a string of dominant wins, compiling an undefeated record through his first 15 professional fights by the end of 1979, 11 of which ended inside the distance. In , he secured four first-round knockouts against various opponents, while also gaining national exposure in a four-round exhibition bout against in April of that year. His amateur success, highlighted by the 1976 National , facilitated a smooth transition to the professional ranks. By 1978, Dokes added knockouts over George Holden and Mike Koranicki, demonstrating increasing knockout prowess against tougher competition. Key victories in 1979 elevated Dokes toward contender status, including a (UD) over veteran Jimmy Young on September 28 at in , where the 21-year-old outworked the former title challenger over 10 rounds. Later that year, on November 23 in , Dokes stopped Bob Stallings via fourth-round technical knockout (TKO), further solidifying his reputation for "Dynamite" power. These performances attracted the attention of prominent promoter , who began handling Dokes' career, steering him toward heavier competition. Entering 1980 and 1981, Dokes maintained his unbeaten streak, reaching 25-0-1 with 14 by late 1982, including a over on March 22, 1981, in , and a fourth-round of European champion John L. Gardner on June 12, 1981, in . His combination of speed, hand speed, and ability—rooted in an amateur record of over 140 wins—positioned him as a rising force in the heavyweight division under King's promotion.

WBA Heavyweight Championship (1982–1983)

On December 10, 1982, at the Sports Pavilion in , , 24-year-old Michael Dokes captured the WBA heavyweight championship with a controversial first-round technical knockout victory over champion Mike Weaver. Dokes staggered Weaver with a left hook early in the bout and followed with another hook that dropped the champion to the canvas; after Weaver rose at the count of eight, referee Joey Curtis stopped the fight at 1:03, citing concerns for Weaver's safety amid the intense exchange. The decision drew immediate boos from the crowd of approximately 4,500 and sparked a brawl between the fighters' camps, with critics including ringside physician Dr. Donald Romeo and commentator arguing that the stoppage was premature and that Weaver was not in serious danger. The (WBA) ordered a rematch while allowing Dokes to retain the title, marking his purse at $400,000 for the victory—a significant payday that highlighted his rising stardom in the heavyweight division. Dokes made his first title defense on May 20, 1983, against Weaver in a rematch at the Dunes Hotel Outdoor Arena in , where he retained the belt via a 15-round before a crowd of 20,000. The fight was a grueling affair, with Dokes controlling the early rounds through effective punching before Weaver mounted a strong comeback in the middle rounds using powerful rights and uppercuts; Dokes rallied late but Weaver pressed aggressively in the final rounds. Judges scored it 145-141 for Dokes, 144-144, and 143-143, though most media observers believed Weaver deserved a narrow decision victory by 2-3 points, leading to boos and controversy over the scoring. Dokes described the bout as "the toughest fight I ever had," while even , scoring it for Dokes, called it "so close." This defense solidified Dokes' status as but underscored the contentious nature of his reign. Dokes' championship tenure ended nine months after winning the title, on September 23, 1983, when he lost the WBA heavyweight crown to by a tenth-round at the in . In a fight billed as Dokes' "Buckeye Homecoming," Coetzee, a 28-year-old South African challenger, overcame an early deficit to land a devastating right hand that dropped Dokes at 3:08 of the round, prompting referee Tony Perez to stop the contest. Dokes, who had entered undefeated at 28-0, later confessed to using less than 48 hours before the bout, contributing to his lackluster performance and marking the peak of his brief fame as a young, dynamic heavyweight contender.

Later Fights and Comebacks (1984–1997)

Following the loss of his WBA heavyweight title in 1983, Dokes experienced a shift in his career momentum, marked by inconsistent performances against top contenders. In the mid-1980s, Dokes secured several victories to rebuild his standing, including a win over Randall "Tex" Cobb on March 15, 1985, at the Riviera Hotel & Casino in , where the bout was stopped early in the fourth round due to a cut on Cobb sustained from an accidental . This win highlighted Dokes' resilience, as he overcame Cobb's aggressive style despite the interruption. He followed with additional triumphs, such as against Mike Jameson in August 1984, demonstrating his continued knockout power in the division. Dokes' most notable bout in this period came on March 11, 1989, against undefeated at in for the WBC Continental Americas heavyweight title. Despite entering at a heavier 225 pounds compared to Holyfield's 208, Dokes engaged in a grueling war, trading heavy blows and absorbing punishment while landing counters that tested Holyfield's vaunted chin. The fight, regarded as one of Holyfield's toughest challenges, ended in the 10th round when referee stopped the action at 1:41 after Holyfield unleashed a flurry that left Dokes reeling against the ropes, unable to defend effectively. Entering the 1990s, Dokes attempted multiple comebacks amid setbacks, including a fourth-round loss to Donovan "Razor" Ruddock on April 4, 1990, in , where Ruddock's devastating punches overwhelmed him. He responded with a string of eight consecutive wins from late 1991 to mid-1992 against journeymen opponents, showcasing flashes of his earlier speed and power to regain momentum. However, this revival stalled with a first-round stoppage defeat to champion on February 6, 1993, in Atlantic City, where Bowe's superior size and jab dominated from the outset. Dokes mounted further comeback efforts later in the decade, notching wins over fighters like Dave Slaughter in November 1995 and Doug Davis in December 1996, but closed his career with back-to-back losses: a decision defeat to in April 1997 and another to Paul Phillips in October 1997, both in . Retiring at age 39 after his final bout on October 10, 1997, Dokes concluded his professional career with a record of 53 wins (34 by ), 6 losses, and 2 draws.

Personal Life

Family and Relationships

Michael Dokes was born into a family in Akron, Ohio, where he grew up alongside his siblings, including brothers Kevin, Steven, and Charles, and sister Alisa. These sibling bonds remained significant throughout his life, providing emotional support during his later years, with Alisa Dokes Williams and her husband Gerald serving as his primary caregivers in Akron. As an adult, Dokes maintained a long-term relationship with live-in partner Sandra Kaye Cummings that lasted over a decade by the late 1990s, during which they shared a . Dokes's career necessitated frequent moves, including residences in and to train and compete, which influenced the stability of his family dynamics as he balanced personal commitments with global travel. Despite these relocations, his close ties to his Akron-based siblings offered a consistent anchor amid the demands of his nomadic lifestyle. Michael Dokes developed a longstanding to and alcohol that began in his and intensified following his rise to fame as a champion in the early . He first experimented with at age 15 while visiting friends in New York, but the pressures of sudden celebrity and the demands of defending his WBA title exacerbated his , leading to heavy use by 1983. Dokes's drug use directly undermined his professional comebacks during this period, as he later admitted to consuming within 48 to 72 hours before his September 1983 title defense against , which contributed to his loss of the championship. This pattern of persisted, resulting in multiple legal entanglements, including a 1986 arrest in for possession of approximately 11 ounces of , for which he faced charges. In 1991, he encountered further drug-related arrests in the same city, compounding the toll on his career and personal stability. The most severe legal consequences arose from Dokes's substance-fueled violence in 1998, culminating in his guilty plea in 1999 and sentencing in 2000 for battery, , second-degree , and battery with intent to commit against his live-in girlfriend Sandra Kaye Cummings in . He was sentenced to a prison term ranging from a minimum of four years and two months up to 10 years in . Dokes served nearly nine years before being granted in 2008. These troubles, rooted in his , severely strained Dokes's personal relationships and halted any meaningful resurgence, as repeated incarcerations and rehabilitation efforts overshadowed his later years.

Health Decline and Death

Illness and Treatment

In the late 2000s, following his release in 2008, Michael Dokes was diagnosed with , a condition he battled for several years thereafter. The disease progressed steadily, with Dokes receiving medical care in facilities around his hometown of , after relocating there in 2010 to live with relatives. In the later stages, Dokes entered hospice care at the Hospice of Visiting Nurse Service Justin T. Rogers Care Center in Copley Township, where he received end-of-life support.

Death and Immediate Aftermath

Michael Dokes died on August 11, 2012, at the age of 54, just one day after his birthday, while receiving care in an Akron, Ohio, hospice from liver cancer. Funeral services for Dokes were held at noon on August 18, 2012, at the House of the Lord church in Akron, with arrangements managed by the Rhoden Memorial Home. The event drew family members, close friends, and members of the local boxing community to pay respects. Immediate media coverage included detailed obituaries highlighting Dokes' boxing achievements and personal struggles, such as in The New York Times, which described him as a "larger-than-life" figure in the ring, and the Akron Beacon Journal, which covered his local roots and passing. Dokes' family emphasized his charismatic public image contrasted with his private family role in statements following his ; his Alisa Dokes Williams noted, “Michael was known to the world as Michael 'Dynamite' Dokes... To us, he was our brother Michael,” while his brother Kevin confirmed the cause of and reflected on his enduring persona.

Legacy

Career Assessment

Michael Dokes emerged as a significant figure in the heavyweight division during the 1980s, an era marked by fragmentation across sanctioning bodies such as the WBA, WBC, and later IBF, which diluted the path to undisputed supremacy and created multiple short-reigned champions. As WBA heavyweight titleholder from 1982 to 1983, Dokes captured the belt with a stunning first-round knockout of Mike Weaver, establishing himself as a top contender in a talent-laden field that included Larry Holmes, Tim Witherspoon, and Greg Page. His consistent high rankings in The Ring Magazine—peaking at No. 1 in 1982, with top-three finishes in 1981, 1983, and 1989—underscore his elite status amid this divided landscape, though the proliferation of belts often prevented clear dominance. Dokes' primary strengths lay in his explosive punching power and exceptional speed for a , attributes that allowed him to overwhelm opponents early and generate momentum in the ring. His hand speed, likened to Muhammad Ali's reflexes, combined with knockout artistry—evident in 34 of his 53 professional victories—made him a dangerous offensive force. Additionally, Dokes displayed remarkable resilience, particularly in high-stakes wars like his 1989 bout against , where he absorbed punishment and traded blows over ten intense rounds before a late stoppage. Despite these gifts, Dokes' career was hindered by notable weaknesses, including post-championship inconsistency that saw him struggle in several outings after losing his title. His victory over in 1985, which some considered disputed, highlighted lapses in focus and execution. He also proved vulnerable to durable, pressure-fighting opponents, as illustrated by his 10th-round knockout defeat to in 1983, where fading stamina exposed defensive frailties against relentless advances. In 1988, Dokes earned The Ring Magazine's Comeback of the Year award for a series of dominant wins that revitalized his standing, climbing back into the top five rankings and reaffirming his potential as a force. Overall, while Dokes' talents positioned him as a could-have-been great in a transitional decade for the division, his inconsistencies prevented him from achieving lasting preeminence among the era's icons.

Cultural Impact and Remembrance

Michael Dokes is often portrayed in boxing media as a "forgotten" champion of the , emblematic of the era's fragmented division marked by multiple sanctioning bodies, controversial decisions, and personal turmoil among contenders. His rapid ascent to the WBA title in 1982 via a contentious stoppage against Mike Weaver, followed by quick dethronement and a career plagued by , underscores the instability and unpredictability that defined the period before Mike Tyson's dominance. Retrospectives frequently highlight Dokes as a of squandered potential, contrasting his explosive talent with the self-destructive path that overshadowed his achievements. In the 2020s, renewed interest in Dokes' dramatic life story has manifested through documentaries and online articles that revisit his rise and fall. The 2017 documentary Forgotten Fighters: Michael Dokes, available on platforms like , examines his career as one of the fastest punchers in history while delving into the personal demons that derailed him. retrospectives and features on sites like The Fight City have spotlighted his technical prowess and the chaos of his era, drawing comparisons to other troubled figures in lore. These works emphasize Dokes' 1989 war with , which Ring magazine hailed as one of the decade's best fights for its relentless intensity. In his hometown of , Dokes holds enduring status as a local hero, particularly as the city's first African American champion, inspiring pride amid the community's industrial heritage. Efforts to honor him posthumously include a 2013 campaign by his family to rename a street in his memory, though city officials proposed alternative tributes due to his legal history; he is interred at Mount Peace Cemetery in Akron, where his legacy as a product of local streets continues to resonate. Tributes from peers underscore Dokes' reputation for toughness and skill, with Evander Holyfield reflecting on their 1989 clash as a defining test of resilience that showcased Dokes' blistering hand speed and unyielding pressure. Holyfield's accounts highlight how Dokes pushed him to his limits, cementing the fight's place in annals as a showcase of raw determination. Dokes' death from in 2012 briefly reignited discussions of his untapped potential, prompting obituaries and features that framed his story as a poignant reminder of 's human cost.

Boxing Records

Professional Record

Michael Dokes compiled a record of 53 wins (34 by ), 6 losses, and 2 draws over 61 bouts from 1976 to 1997. His record includes notable victories such as the first-round technical of Mike Weaver on December 10, 1982, to capture the WBA heavyweight title, and a competitive victory over in 1985. The rematch with Weaver on May 20, 1983, ended in a after 15 rounds, though unofficial scorecards favored Weaver, marking it as a disputed outcome. He lost the title by tenth-round to on September 23, 1983. Dokes was stopped by TKO in the tenth round against on March 11, 1989, for the undisputed heavyweight championship. The full professional record is summarized in the table below, listed in reverse chronological order.
DateOpponentResultTypeRoundsLocation
1997-10-11Paul PhillipsLossTKO2/10Peels Palace, Erlanger, KY, USA
1997-04-05Louis MonacoLossPTS10/10Aztlan Theatre, Denver, CO, USA
1996-12-10Doug DavisWinPTS10/10Grady Gammage Memorial Auditorium, Tempe, AZ, USA
1996-08-23Everett KingWinTKO1/10Reno Sparks Convention Center, Reno, NV, USA
1996-06-28Derrick RoddyWinTKO1/10St. Joseph Civic Arena, St. Joseph, MO, USA
1996-05-03Charles RobinsonWinPTS10/10Roberts Municipal Stadium, Evansville, IN, USA
1996-03-23Terry DavisWinTKO1/10Municipal Auditorium, Clarksville, TN, USA
1996-02-03Lorenzo HudsonWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1995-12-08Willie LeeWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1995-10-21Marion WilsonWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1995-09-16Robert SimsWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1995-08-05Derrick RoddyWinPTS10/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1995-06-24Stanley TateWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1995-05-06Mike WilliamsWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1995-03-18Tim AmosWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1995-02-04Kevin JohnsonWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1994-12-09Bruce DillardWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1994-10-22Donnie PenningtonWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1994-09-17Robert DavisWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1994-08-06Danny SuttonWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1994-06-25Mike MooreWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1994-05-07Jesse ShelbyWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1994-03-19David BooneWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1994-02-05Tony TubbsWinUD10/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1993-12-10James BroadWinTKO2/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1993-10-23Derrick RoddyWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1993-09-18Eddie RichardsonWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1993-08-07Al JonesWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1993-06-26Melvin FosterWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1993-05-08Charles SmithWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1993-03-20David JohnsonWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1993-02-06Scott WiddisonWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1992-12-12Devon JackWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1992-10-24Mike WhiteWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1992-09-19Tim PulliamWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1992-08-08Robert DavisWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1992-06-27Eric DavisWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1992-05-09Bruce PostWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1992-03-21Danny JonesWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1992-02-08Mark HallWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1991-12-14Jerry ThompsonWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1991-10-26Steve CoxWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1991-09-21Tim AndersonWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1991-08-10James McMillianWinTKO1/10Cleveland Public Hall, Cleveland, OH, USA
1991-06-29Mike McCallumLossTKO5/12Convention Hall, Atlantic City, NJ, USA (WBC title)
1990-11-17James PritchardWinTKO1/10Canton Memorial Civic Center, Canton, OH, USA
1990-04-04Donovan RuddockLossTKO4/12Madison Square Garden, New York, NY, USA
1989-10-21Bert CooperWinTKO3/10Convention Center, Atlantic City, NJ, USA
1989-03-11Evander HolyfieldLossTKO10/12Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, NV, USA (undisputed heavyweight title)
1988-07-23Nathan TuweiWinTKO2/10Tropicana Hotel & Casino, Atlantic City, NJ, USA
1987-05-30Barry McGuiganWinTKO5/10Bally's Park Place Hotel & Casino, Atlantic City, NJ, USA
1986-11-28David BeyWinUD10/10Resorts International, Atlantic City, NJ, USA
1986-07-12Mitch GreenWinUD10/10Madison Square Garden, New York, NY, USA
1986-03-22Jesse FergusonWinUD10/10Ramada Inn, Rosemont, IL, USA
1985-07-11Oliver CooleyWinTKO2/10Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, NV, USA
1984-07-20Gaetano CaltabianoWinTKO1/10The Palace, Lansing, MI, USA
1983-09-23Gerrie CoetzeeLossTKO10/15Richfield Coliseum, Richfield, OH, USA (WBA heavyweight title)
1983-05-20Mike WeaverDrawMD15/15Dunes Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, NV, USA (WBA heavyweight title)
1982-12-10Mike WeaverWinTKO1/15Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, NV, USA (WBA heavyweight title)
1982-06-26James BroadWinTKO1/10Convention Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
1982-03-27Michael GreerWinTKO1/10Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, NV, USA
1982-01-30Ken NortonWinTKO1/10Tropicana Hotel & Casino, Atlantic City, NJ, USA
1981-12-12Randy StephensWinTKO6/10Convention Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
1981-09-25Tex CobbWinUD10/10Arena, Philadelphia, PA, USA
1981-06-20Lynn BallWinTKO2/8Convention Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
1981-03-28Ron StanderWinTKO3/10Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, NV, USA
1980-11-22Pat LawsonWinTKO9/10Convention Center, Louisville, KY, USA
1980-08-16Ricardo MarsdenWinTKO1/10Arena, Philadelphia, PA, USA
1980-05-17Scott LeDouxWinSD10/10Metropolitan Sports Center, Bloomington, MN, USA
1980-02-23Ali McIntyreWinTKO4/10Coliseum, New Orleans, LA, USA
1979-11-17Marvin CamelLossUD10/10Convention Center, Dallas, TX, USA
1979-09-08Dan McCrayWinTKO3/10Coliseum, New Orleans, LA, USA
1979-06-23Jackie PooleWinTKO1/10Convention Center, Dallas, TX, USA
1979-04-14John CasonWinTKO1/10Coliseum, New Orleans, LA, USA
1979-02-17Robert FullerWinKO1/8Convention Center, Dallas, TX, USA
1978-12-02Gary SummerlinWinTKO5/8Convention Center, Dallas, TX, USA
1978-10-07Charles PetersonWinTKO1/8Municipal Auditorium, Kansas City, MO, USA
1978-07-29Jeff JordanWinTKO2/8Convention Center, Dallas, TX, USA
1978-05-20Mike SampsonWinTKO1/8Convention Center, Dallas, TX, USA
1978-03-18George CrossWinTKO5/8Convention Center, Dallas, TX, USA
1978-01-28Melvin JohnsonWinTKO1/6Convention Center, Dallas, TX, USA
1977-11-26Roberto EdwardsWinTKO1/6Convention Center, Dallas, TX, USA
1977-09-24Ellis AdamsWinKO1/6Convention Center, Dallas, TX, USA
1977-07-30Darnell HayesWinTKO2/6Convention Center, Dallas, TX, USA
1977-05-28Eddie RobinsonWinTKO1/6Convention Center, Dallas, TX, USA
1977-04-02David JohnsonWinKO1/6Convention Center, Dallas, TX, USA
1977-02-05Perry BrooksWinTKO1/4Convention Center, Dallas, TX, USA
1976-12-18Cornelius CradleDrawPTS4/4Convention Center, Dallas, TX, USA
1976-11-13Lee WashingtonWinTKO1/4Convention Center, Dallas, TX, USA
1976-10-15Al ByrdWinRTD2/4Hollywood Sportatorium, Pembroke Pines, FL, USA
Note: No February 5, 1983, bout against Mike Weaver occurred.

Exhibition Record

Michael Dokes engaged in only one documented bout, which occurred early in his career as a promotional showcase to highlight his potential as a contender. Unlike his official fights, this non-scored encounter was not part of his competitive ledger and focused on and exposure rather than victory. Exhibitions were rare for Dokes, limited to this single event before he transitioned fully to sanctioned bouts.
No.ResultRecordOpponentTypeRoundsDateLocationNotes
1—0–0Exhibition3April 16, 1977Televised nationally on ABC; Ali dominated with showmanship while training for his next title defense.

References

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  57. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZ1fPyAdHS4
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