Book on Jeff 'Candy Slim' Merrritt

[Bill Paxtom]

Jeff 'Candy Slim' Merritt

Was working with Richie Giachetti as his chief trainer in 1973 and 1974.

Prior to fighting Henry Clark on March 4, 1974 >

Richie Giachetti >
"Jeff is one of the most vicious punchers that I have ever seen. In sparring, he breaks people.
He doesn't hit as hard as George Foreman, but he is sharper with his punches. He is more
accurate, and quicker."

"Jeff fractured Earnie Shavers jaw {July 1973} and took it off it's hinge with one punch. I have
never seen that before. The kid is over 6' 4", and is real tall-and-lanky. He doesn't give you the
appearance that he is a brutal puncher, but he gets so much leverage in his swings, and that
doubles the power."

"We've had a hard time getting sparring partners for Jeff. He busts everybody up in 1 or 2 Rounds,
and nobody wants to take him on anymore here in Cleveland."

"He'll be tested by Henry Clark, as he has never been off his feet. Henry is tougher than he appears,
and is a tricky sort of boxer who gives you angles. Jeff just has to be patient, and wait for an opening.
Sooner or later, he'll get to Henry."