Book on Jeff 'Candy Slim' Merrritt

[Bill Paxtom]

June 1975

The Kansas City Times

Staff Reporter; Ken Hentgen

'Jeff Merritt To Right His Wrong Ways'

Former World Ranked Heavyweight - Jeff Merrit may soon get a 'special release' from the Missouri State Prison.

After 11-Months behind bars at the Jefferson City facility, Jeff may get his release at the end of this month {June 1976}.

Jeff Merritt,

"I've been clean for 11-Months. No more Drugs. I'm a new man now, and I am no longer 'Candy Slim'. Now just call me plain old 'Jeff'.
I want to fight again. As soon as I get out, I'm heading right into a Boxing Gym to work out. I've got to be in control and stay right.
I'll need about 4-Weeks to get ready for a bout. I'll take on a few 'soft' opponents at first to see where I'm at. Then I'll evaluate my
performances before I take the next step. I'm not going to rush into anything. This could be my last chance."

"I'm still a young man {Age; 28 years, 5 months}. I'm not beat up, and have a lot left to give. I've already talked to a 'promoter' in
Orlando, Florida. He said he would get me a 'few' tune-up bouts at first, to build up my name and get me some 'press' in the newspapers."

"That's the plan for Phase I."