Mike Quarry ~ Forced To Fight On By Father ~ 'Road To Palookaville'

[Bill Paxtom]

Man! Tough business! I was thinking of myself at 22, I would have probably been just as gullible and easy to lead as Mike. Maybe not, but you never know.
Interesting and informative as always. Thanks, again.

Been Koed,

Take a look at Mike Quarry's {half-year} 1973 schedule that Gil Clancy set up for him.

* April 23, 1973 ............. Hal Carroll ............ Felt Forum, New York City
> Mike battles to a 10-Round Draw with a 'tough' and seasoned veteran.
> Mike fought with a 'chest infection'.
> Mike 'gassed out' down the stretch.
> Result > 'Draw 10'
> Fight Purse ....... $6560

* May 10, 1973 ............. Tom Bogs ............. Copenhagen, Denmark
> Only 17-Days after the tough bout with Hal Carroll, Gil books Mike in a bout against World-Class - Tom Bogs, in Denmark.
> Mike gets his left-eye 'sliced' in Round 5.
> Result > 'L Dec 10'
> Fight Purse ..... $18,000

* July 21, 1973 .............. Andy Kendall ........ Felt Forum, New York City
> Mike fights 'tough' Cleveland-slammer Andy Kendall in a 12-Round bout for the American Light-Heavyweight Championship.
> It was televised by ABC-TV 'Wide World of Sports'
> Again, Mike gets his left-eye sliced in Round 4.
> Mike requires '8-Stitches' on the left eye-brow.
> Result > 'Draw 12'
> Fight Purse .... $20,000

* October 3, 1973 .......... Billy Wagner ......... Orlando, Florida
> Mike is back in Florida, to take on 'faded' but tough veteran Billy Wagner.
> Mike gets 'lumped up' and has his left-eye sliced in Round 2.
> Mike in an 'upset' Decision Loss.
> Result > 'L Majority Dec 10'
> Fight Purse ..... $4610

* November 13, 1973 .... Chris Finnegan ...... London, United Kingdom
> Only 6-Weeks after the 'gruelling' bout with Billy Wagner, Gil books Mike for a bout in London, England.
> Mike is literally embarrassed out of the Ring by Chris Finnegan, and loses a 'one-sided' Decision.
> Result > 'L Dec 10'
> Fight Purse .... $12,000

* November 23, 1973
> Just 10-days after fighting Chris Finnegan in the United Kingdom
> Gil Clancy throws Mike in the Ring as a sparring-partner for older brother Jerry Quarry.
> Jerry is in New York City, preparing for his Friday Night ~ December 14, 1973 bout with Earnie Shavers.
> Gil Clancy was having a hard time getting decent 'sparring-partners' for Jerry, so he uses the younger Quarry as a sparring-mate.
> In the process, Mike gets his 'ribs' bruised up by Jerry's hooks to the body.

> Gil Clancy then tries to put Mike on the undercard of the Jerry Quarry - Earnie Shavers bout.
> Gil wants to match up Mike, with old nemesis - Andy Kendall, for a '3rd-Bout' between the two Light-Heavyweights.

> Mike Quarry has finally had enough, and tells Gil Clancy >
"What are trying to do me Gil. Get me 'killed' before my 23rd Birthday."

> Mike Quarry and Gil Clancy having a falling out, and their contract is terminated on November 30, 1972.

[Bill Paxtom]

Mike Quarry

After 'dumping' Manager - Gil Clancy on November 30th, Mike contacted his old friend
Pete Ashlock in Orlando, Florida.

Mike then 'signed' a deal with him, for Pete to get Mike some 'safe bouts' so that he
could get his name back after the 'disaster' 7-Month deal with Gil Clancy.

First thing Pete Ashlock did, was to tell Mike to unload the 'Irish Mike' moniker.

Pete Ashlock >
"I cant stand that nickname Mike. "Irish Mike" is finished. From now on you're going
by the name of .... 'Rock-n-Roll' Mike Quarry."

Mike Quarry >
"Oh no Pete. Oh Jesus Christ, when my Father {Jack} finds out about this, he's going to kill me."

Pete Ashlock >
"Don't worry about it kid. You're a 'Rock-n-Roll' guy now. Fast and loose. Stick with me, and
I'll make you a lot of money."
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Immediately, Pete Ashlock got Mike a 'somewhat' safe bout right away, and for Tuesday -
December 18, 1973 > and in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

First, Mike wanted to stay in New York City to watch his brother Jerry take on the dangerous
punching Earnie Shavers on Friday Night - December 14th at Madison Square Garden.

Pete Ashlock made arrangements for Mike to get a flight out of New York City to Milwaukee
on Sunday ~ December 16th, so he could be in Milwaukee 2-Days before his bout.

Mike also wanted to stay in New York, to do light gym-work and to be ready for the bout
in 2-Weeks.

The deal between Mike and Pete Ashlock was simple. Mike got to keep {70%} and Pete
got {30%} on all bouts outside of Florida. Pete was the Manager, and he booked all the
deals and made the financial arrangements.

In bouts at Pete Ashlock's - Sports Arena in Orlando, Florida > there would be a different
arrangement, depending on the opponent.

[Bill Paxtom]

Tuesday ~ December 18, 1973

Eagles Club ~ Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Promoter ........... Harry Simos
Attendance ........ 1823 .....{ 'Sell-Out' }
Gate Receipts .... $14,300

* Mike Quarry - 38-4-3 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 11" ~ 176 lbs. ~ {Age; 22 years, 9 months}
vs.
* Karl Zurheide - 42-12-4 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 11" ~ 177 lbs. ~ {Age; 30 years, 10 months}
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mike Quarry is introduced as 'Rock-n-Roll' Mike Quarry. Mike is now ranked as the #3 American
Light-Heavyweight, but is #15 Ring Magazine.

Karl Zurheide {'The Scappoose Express'} is a popular Wisconsin Light-Heavyweight. The 9-Year
Professional always puts on a good show for the fans, as he is a 'fighter'.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Mike Quarry Tops Karl Zurheide In Close Bout ~

Mike Quarry had to finish strong over the last 3-Rounds to earn a 'close' 10-Round Decision win
over veteran Karl Zurheide last night.

The 22 1/2 year-old Quarry got off to a slow start in the bout, as Karl Zurheide was effective as
he 'counter-punched' Quarry throughout the first 5-Rounds, as well as displaying a good defense.

But as Zurheide moved in close during the middle-Rounds, Quarry was able to take advantage of his
speed as he scored with quick-combinations into Zurheide's face, forcing the Wisconsin-based local
to cover up or hold.

Over the last 3-Rounds, Zurheide attempted to move inside and maul Quarry. But the quick boxer
was able to score with fast left-jabs and left hooks into Zurheide's head.

Scorecards
* Referee - Milt Rickum ........ 97-96 > {4-3-3} > Mike Quarry
* Judge - Howard Wahlen .... 97-95 > {5-3-2} > Mike Quarry
* Judge - Rick Baman .......... 98-95 > {5-2-3} > Mike Quarry

Fight Purses
* Mike Quarry ....... $4500 {Plus Travel and Hotel Expenses}
* Karl Zurheide ..... $3000

~ After Bout Comments ~

Mike Quarry >
"I wanted to pace myself early. I knew that I could handle Karl. He's a good defensive fighter,
but he sure hung on a lot. He should have punched more, if he wanted to win. You can't win on
defense alone."

"I was in control of the bout, as I landed the cleaner punches down the stretch when the bout
was on the line. I'll give him another shot. I'll come back here next year {1974}."

Karl Zurheide >
"I honestly thought that I won. I want another shot at him, Hell yes."

"He threw a lot of punches, but he missed with most of them. A lot of 'flash' and no power. The
punches that I landed were 'jolting' blows."

Matt Baulie {Manager for Karl Zurheide} >
"It was close. Quarry threw a lot of punches, but he had nothing on them. Karl had the edge during
the first-half, and Quarry had the edge in the second-half. It was a {1-Point} difference. Somebody
had to win I guess."

[Bill Paxtom]

January 1974

Mike Quarry

1974 ended on a good note, as I won my last fight {December 18th} over Karl Zurheide.

My record was 39-4-3 {12 KO's}, but I had fallen out of the Top 10, down to #16.

I was out to prove the 'Boxing Critics' wrong, and was set to be the best I could
in getting back to the Top.

My Manager {Pete Ashlock} said that we should pick up a few 'safe opponents' to
get on a winning-streak going, so we could get back into the Top 10.

My old 'Trainer' {Frank Brazell} was back with me now. And Pete was busy lining
up a few bouts for February 1974.

[Bill Paxtom]

Tuesday ~ February 5, 1974

Fairgrounds Arena ~ Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Attendance ............. 2366
Gate Receipts ....... $14,300

Promoter .............. Pat O'Grady

* Mike Quarry - 39-4-3 {12 KO's} ~ 178 lbs. ~ 5' 11" ~ Reach; 71" ~ {Age; 22 years, 11 months}
vs.
* Brian Kelly - 45-10-0 {26 KO's} ~ 174 lbs. ~ 5' 10" ~ Reach; 72" ~ {Age; 33 years, 11 months}
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~ The Skinny ~

"Rock-n-Roll' Mike Quarry travels to the Southwest, for a 'warm-up' bout against
veteran Oklahoman - 'American' Brian Kelly.

Mike and Trainer {Frank Brazell} drive from Anaheim, California on Saturday {February 2nd}
to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Brian Kelly was one 'Hell' of an Amateur, and was a pretty decent Light-Heavyweight.

Though labeled as a 'Southwest Fighter', Brian was coming into the bout riding a '6-Bout'
winning streak.

Brian, like Mike Quarry, was also 'Knocked Out' by Bob Foster in a previous World Championship
bout.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Quarry Scores Decision, Jabs Way To Win ~

Former World-Rated Light-Heavyweight - Mike Quarry used an 'accurate' left-jab to cruise to an
easy 10-Round Decision over veteran - Brian Kelly.

Quarry picked up the pace in Round 2, and poked Brian Kelly with repeated left-jabs to the face.

The hard-punching Oklahoman never was able to get close enough to land any of his power
punches, and was forced to back up when he traded with the younger and faster boxer.

Scorecards
* 99-91
* 99-91
* 99-92

Fight Purses
* Mike Quarry ....... $4000 ~ {Plus [$150] in Travel Expenses, and 3-Day Hotel Stay}
* Brian Kelly ......... $2000

~ After Bout Comments ~

Mike Quarry >
"It was a good 10-Rounder. I was just too fast for Brian. He {was} a good fighter."

[Bill Paxtom]

Wednesday ~ February 6, 1974

Albuquerque, New Mexico

~ Mike Quarry To Arrive Today ~

~ Mike Quarry To Fight In Albuquerque ~

Former World Light-Heavyweight Challenger - Mike Quarry will arrive today to begin
training for his bout with Bobby Rascon next week {Friday - February 15th}.

Mike Quarry {Age; 22 years, 11 months} now goes by the nickname of 'Rock-n-Roll'.

Quarry, who had a 'rough' 1973, has won his last '2-Bouts' and hopes a victory over the
local Bobby Rascon will move him 'one-step' closer towards a rematch with World Champion -
Bob Foster.

Quarry is arriving from Oklahoma City, where he fought last night in winning a 'solid' 10-Round
Decision over Brian Kelly.

Bob Foster will also be on this Fight-Card, as he will box a 3-Round Exhibition with Fred Wallace,
a Light-Heavyweight from Dallas, Texas.

The bout, to be held at the Civic Auditorium will be promoted by Paul Chavez, and an expected
crowd of 2500 is anticipated.

[Bill Paxtom]

Friday ~ February 15, 1974

Civic Auditorium ~ Albuquerque, New Mexico

Promoter ............. Paul Chavez
Attendance .......... 2050
Gate Receipts ...... $14,350

* Mike Quarry - 40-4-3 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 11" ~ 177 lbs. ~ {Age; 22 years, 11 months}
vs.
* Bobby Rascon - 55-14-1 {32 KO's} ~ 5' 10" ~ 171 lbs. ~ {Age; 32 years, 1 month}
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

'Rock-N-Roll' Mike Quarry will take on 'tough' veteran in New Mexico Light-Heavyweight
Bobby Rascon.

Bobby, who is a local Hero, is a big fan favorite as he an aggressive-style.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Mike Quarry Keeps Title Hope Alive ~

Mike Quarry was forced to work hard, to edge out tough-veteran Bobby Rascon over 10-Rounds
in winning a Unanimous Decision.

Rascon 'stalked' the clever-boxing Quarry over the early going, and forced the visitor to move
quickly and to stay on the perimeter over the first 4-Rounds.

Rascon, fighting from a 'crouch', came in low and pressed, making Quarry work. The New Mexico
veteran kept Quarry 'off-balance' during the first 4-Rounds by 'lashing' out with left-hooks to the head
and body.

Quarry was able to switch-gears in Round 5, and scored with several good left-hooks into Rascon's
head. Quarry picked up his pace and kept the momentum going in Round 6, as he was now landing
with hard left-jabs to the face, causing Rascon's nose to 'trickle-blood'.

Coming out for Round 7 {Quarry's Trainer- Frank Brazell} told his fighter to move inside.

In Round 7, Mike followed his Trainer's instruction, and moved inside, where he avoided Rascon's
wide hooks and countered with 'fast-combinations' to the body and head.
.
In Round 8, Quarry continued with his inside attack and did well. But half-way through the Round,
Rascon caught Quarry with a good 'left-hook' to the chin, and Quarry 'wobbled' to the Ropes.

But Quarry was able to hold on, and ride out the storm.

In Round 9, Quarry came back with a series of left-uppercuts and long-range hooks to stall Rascon's
attack.

In Round 10, Quarry had his 'best' Round, as he slammed Rascon with 'jolting-hooks', sending the
local veteran's mouthpiece skidding across the canvas.

Scorecards
* Referee - Jim Cleary .............. 98-95 {5-2-3 in Rounds} > Mike Quarry
* Judge - Willis Barnes ............. 99-93 {7-1-2 in Rounds} > Mike Quarry
* Judge - Richard Kosolowski .... 97-94 {6-3-1 in Rounds} > Mike Quarry

Fight Purses
* Mike Quarry .......... $5022 > {35% of the Gate Receipts} ~ Plus, Hotel Expenses and Ammenites
* Bobbby Rascon ..... $2800

~ After Bout Comments ~

Mike Quarry >
"It was a good fight. Bobby is very tough and keeps on charging. He forces the action, and he never
allows you to rest."

"I consider this a good win, as Bobby is a quality fighter. He's a tough veteran, and he's as game
as they come."

"I came here to see if I can get a fight with Bob Foster again. If the money is 'right', I'll take the
first Train back here to Albuquerque."

~ Other Action ~

World Light-Heavyweight Champion - Bob Foster fought a 3-Round 'Exhibition' with Dallas Light-Heavyweight
Fred Wallace.

Bob Foster >
"I'll fight Mike again. But the money has to be right. I figure { $80,000 } will do it."

[Bill Paxtom]

Saturday ~ March 2, 1974

Ellis Park Stadium ~ Johannesburg, South Africa

Attendance ......... 25,000 {Approximate}

* Mike Quarry - 41-4-3 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 11" ~ 176 lbs. ~ {Age; 23 years, 0 months}
vs.
* Pierre Fourie - 44-3-1 {9 KO's} ~ 6' 1 1/2" ~ 177 lbs. ~ {Age; 28 years, 9 months}
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~ The Skinny ~

Just '2-Weeks' after fighting Bobby Rascon in New Mexico, Mike finds himself in South Africa.

As Manager - Pete Ashlock could not pass up the deal {Fight Purse; $20,000} with all expenses
covered.

Mike, who is now ranked as the #12 WBA Light-Heavyweight following '3-Straight' wins needs
this victory to get back into the Top 10.

According to 'Press Reports', this bout was billed as a 'WBA Elimination Bout', with the winner
to get a 'chance' at World Champion - Bob Foster in May 1974.

The South African - Pierre Fourie was a 'fast-handed' boxer, who employed an excellent
left-jab with 'quick' ring movement.

The South African had challenged Champion - Bob Foster 'twice' in 1973 >
* June 20th
* December 1st

Pierre took the Champion {15-Rounds} 'both' times, in competitive bouts.

Pierre who is ranked as the #5 WBA Light-Heavyweight is seeking a '3rd-Bout' with World
Champion - Bob Foster.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~ Quarry Beaten Loses In South Africa ~

~ Pierre Fourie Wins, Decisions Quarry In Spirited Bout ~

In a well-contested Light-Heavyweight bout, Pierre Fourie out-punched American - Mike Quarry
over 10 'spirited' Rounds.

The South African, fighting before 25,000 supporters, had the edge thru the first 3-Rounds, as he
scored with quick-combinations each time that Quarry moved in within range.

Fourie was the aggressor and scored with quick 'left-right' {one-two} punches into the American's
face, reddening it by the end of Round 3.

But Quarry made a 'good charge' during the middle-Rounds, as he landed with fast left-jabs and
left-hooks from outside, especially in Round 5 when he 'jarred' the South African with a 'hard'
left-hook to the jaw.

In heated exchanges during Rounds 7 and 8, it was Fourie who delivered the 'cleaner' punches,
as he tagged the American in the face with several 'sharp' right-hands, sending Quarry's hair flying.

In Round 9, Quarry moved inside and attempted to 'slug-it-out', but the South African smartly kept
a 'tight-defense', and was not caught with anything damaging.

In the 'Final Round', both fighters fought with caution for the first 2-Minutes. Then Fourie pressed
with a fast-attack, and caught Quarry by surprise, sending him back on his heels with a volley
of punches. Quarry took the punches and recovered, and then came back with his own 'flurry'
just before the Bell sounded ending the bout.

Scoredards
* 67-66 = {4-3-3 in Rounds} > Pierre Fourie
* 66-65 = {5-4-1 in Rounds} > Pierre Fourie
* 67-65 = {5-3-2 in Rounds} > Pierre Fourie



~ After Bout Comments ~

Mike Quarry >
"I honestly thought I won."

"I let him set the pace over the first 3-Rounds, because I wanted to see what he had. I knew
he was fast, but I wanted to test his power."

"When I realized that he had 'no power' on his punches, I moved in during Round 4. I carried
the fight the whole way after that.

[Bill Paxtom]

Tuesday ~ March 12, 1974

Mike Quarry

Following the loss {L Dec 10} to Pierre Fourie in South Africa, Mike took his { $20,000 }
Fight Purse and record of 41-5-3 to England.

Mike took a 'flight' to London, United Kingdom to view the European Light-Heavyweight
Championship between John Conteh vs. Tom Bogs.

Fight Promoter - Harry Levene wanted to set up a bout between Mike and John Conteh
for May 1974, if John defeated Bogs.

Mike was a 'guest commentator' on the BBC Broadcast with Harry Carpenter.

Mike stated that >

He would fight Tom Bogs {who had defeated him earlier} if he won. But, that he doubted
whether John Conteh would fight him.

Mike Quarry >
"John Conteh likes to play it safe. He won't take a risk fighting me in a 10-Rounder. I'm too
fast for him. He wants to protect his #2 WBA / #2 WBC ranking."

"As for {Tom} Bogs, he just edged me in Denmark last year {May 10, 1973}. He got a lucky
'home town' Decision. It should have been a Draw. Really, it was a Draw."

[Bill Paxtom]

Wednesday ~ April 10, 1974

Sports Arena ~ Orlando, Florida

Promoter............. Pete Ashlock
Attendance ......... 2837
Gate Receipts .... $19,200

North American Light-Heavyweight Championship {12-Rounds}

* Mike Quarry - 41-5-3 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 11" ~ 177 lbs. ~ {Age; 23 years, 1 month}
vs.
* Gary Summerhayes - 22-4-2 {7 KO's} ~ 5' 11" ~ 174 lbs. ~ {Age; 24 years, 4 months}
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mke Quarry is now 'residing' in Orlando, Florida.

Fight Promoter/Manager ~ Pete Ashlock puts together an interesting bout for the NABF Championship.

Pete has brought in Canadian Light-Heavyweight Champion ~ Gary Summerhayes.

Summerhayes is a 'talented' boxer-puncher from Canada. Gary is durable and is an aggressive fighter
who likes to trade, as he take a good punch.

Gary had been riding a '13-Bout' unbeaten streak, until he was 'upset' in his previous bout, and lost
a 'controversial' 10-Round Split-Decision to Karl Zurheide in Milwaukee on January 21, 1974.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Quarry Grabs Unpopular Nod ~

~ Quarry Wins, Keeps NABF Title ~

~ Quarry Wins, Fans Boo Decision ~

Mike Quarry was given a rough going-over by Canadian - Gary Summerhayes. But the former
World Title Challenger used his experience and 'crisp-combinations to escape with a 12-Round
Majority Decision.

Quarry started off strong, as he used his speed and footwork to out-hit the strong but 'slow-starting'
Summerhayes.

But starting in Round 4, the Canadian showed his strength, as he slammed Quarry with solid left-hands
to the face.

Quarry bounced back to take Round 5 by tossing in continuous left-jabs and short left-hooks, as he
kept the Canadian on the defensive.

In Round 6, both fighters 'neutralized' each other, as each connected with left-jabs and by landing
with quick counter right-hands.

But the Canadian showed his durability, and made his mark during Rounds {7, 8 and 9} as jolted Quarry
with left-hands to the head, and 'cut' Quarry around both his eyes, as well as bruising up his forehead.

But Quarry showed his experience, and rallied during Rounds {10 and 11} by scoring with 'crisp-combinations'
to his opponents head, and then moved outside to the perimeter and circled away.

In the 'Final Round' > Summerhayes attacked with ferocity, and went after Quarry with everything he had,
driving Quarry around the Ring. As Summerhayes chased, the Sports Arena fans {2837} erupted while cheering
for the Canadian visitor.

The Canadian scored with 'lefts-and-rights' to the head, as Quarry was on the complete defensive for the first
2-Minutes. But Quarry showed his experience, and came back with his own series of punches, and tagged
the aggressive Summerhayes with several 'solid' left-hooks over the last 25-Seconds of the 12-Round bout.

At the 'Bell' > Gary Summerhayes' corner rushed into the Ring and lifted their fighter up in the air, while walking
him around the Ring, as the Sports Arena fans cheered for what they thought was the 'new' NABF Light-Heavyweight
Champion.

Mike Quarry, with 'cuts' over both eyes and a bruised forehead > slowly walked back to his corner, but raised both
hands in the air claiming victory.

Scorecards
* Judge - Jack DeFranco ...... 117-115 = {5-3-4 in Rounds} > Mike Quarry
* Judge - Bob Burns ............ 117-117 = {3-3-6 in Rounds} > 'Even'
* Judge - Mick Garry ........... 117-114 = {6-3-6 in Rounds} > Mike Quarry

After the Decision was announced >

The fans went wild, and tossed 'seat cushions' and 'popcorn boxes' into the Ring. Other items were sent into the
Ring as well, as the Ring Announcer, Boxing Officials and both Boxers {and handlers} ducked for cover.

After 5-Minutes, the Ring was littered with debris.

~ After Bout Comments ~

Mike Quarry >
"I can understand that the fans are upset. Gary fought hard, and had a great '12th Round'. But you can't award
a fight on 'one round' only."

"It was a good fight, but I landed a lot more punches. He landed some hard ones, but I was the one that landed
with more volume."

Gary Summerhayes >
"I don't question the Judges decision. They call what they see, and I fight in the Ring. But I'm not so sure that
Mike won this fight."

"Look at me, I'm 'unmarked'. Look at Mike. He's got 'facial-cuts', a bruised face, and a 'knot' on his forehead.
Who looks like the winner to you."

Fight Purses
* Mike Quarry ................ $7000
* Gary Summerhayes ..... $3500 {Plus Hotel and Travel Expenses}

[Bill Paxtom]

Tuesday ~ May 21, 1974

Music Theatre ~ Houston, Texas

Attendance ........... 2341
Gate Receipts ...... $17,300

* Mike Quarry - 42-5-3 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 11" ~ 178 lbs. ~ {Age; 23 years, 2 months}
vs.
* Karl Zurheide - 43-13-4 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 11" ~ 175 lbs. ~ {Age; 31 years, 3 months}
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~ The Skinny ~

Mike Quarry is now in Houston, Texas > taking on Milwaukee-veteran and previous foe Karl Zurheide,
who Mike fought back on December 18, 1973 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Mike is seeking to get back into the Top 10.

Mike is sporting a damaged left-eye brow {scar tissue}, from previous battles.

Karl Zurheide is a former student of the University of Houston, and is also visiting Houston for business
reasons.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Quarry Wins Over Karl Zurheide ~

'Rock-n-Roll' Mike Quarry breezed to a 10-Round Decision over veteran Karl Zurheide. The young Quarry
took control from the Opening Bell, and 'carried' the fight all the way.

Quarry used 'sharp' left-jabs, and swift-combinations, while moving around the perimeter of the Ring.

Karl Zurheide tried to get inside, but he was seldom able to reach Quarry with any of his heavy-hooks,
and was beaten to the punch in nearly every exchange.

Though he won by a wide-margin, Mike Quarry had his left eye-brow 'sliced open' in Round 9, when he
got caught by a right-hook from Karl Zurheide. It was the 'only' Round that the veteran won on the
Scorecards.

Scorecards
* 99-93 = {7-1-2 in Rounds} > Mike Quarry
* 99-93 = {7-1-2 in Rounds} > Mike Quarry
* 99-92 = {8-1-1 in Rounds} > Mike Quarry

Fight Purses
* Mike Quarry ....... $5500 {Plus Hotel Expenses and Ammenities}
* Karl Zurheide ..... $3000 {Plus Travel and Hotel Expenses}

Mike Quarry >
"Karl gave me a better fight up in Milwaukee back in December {1973}. But tonight, I was faster and
stronger then I was in our last bout. I got off to a fast start, and 'Rock-n-Rolled' the whole 10-Rounds."

[Bill Paxtom]

June 15, 1974

What About Mike ?

* Mike Quarry ~ 'This Is Rough Work, When You Get It' *

For Mike Quarry, the 'Boxing Road' has been grueling for the past 18-Months.

Since December 1972, Mike Quarry {the younger brother of Jerry Quarry} has been
involved in '15-Bouts', while posting a record of 8-4-3.

The 23 year-old Quarry has seen himself go from the #2 World-Ranked Light-Heavyweight
in June 1972, down to the #15 position in the World Rankings.

Along the way, Mike has gone through '3' Managers, and numerous cuts to his left eye-brow.

And Mike went from 'Irish Mike', to 'Rock-N-Roll' Mike. Mike said the new nickname was the
idea of his Manager - Pete Ashlock, who likens it to a fast-mover.

Now it's time for a rest, as Mike plans to take '4-to-5 Months' off, and will return in November.

Mike Quarry >
"It's been a grueling 18-Months. I'm only 23, but I feel older. I need to take a break, because
I will need surgery on my left-eye brow, to repair some scar-tissue. I got the eye-brow 'sliced up',
and the only way to prevent it from opening up again is surgery."

"I shouldn't complain though, as I did very well financially during these 18-Months. I got to fight
in > Denmark - London, England - South Africa - New York City. In those bouts, I made some
real good money."

"When I come back, I will move to Houston, Texas - because my Manager- Pete Ashlock will
set up a few tune-up bouts for me there. After that, I will be seeking to get back into the Top 10,
and will try to get a bout with one of the ranked fighters."

[Bill Paxtom]

September 30, 1974

~ Mike Quarry Set Return In November ~

Former World Title Challenger - Mike Quarry will return to the Ring in November 1974, after taking
4-Months off to undergo facial surgery to repair scar-tissue above his left eye.

Mike, who now goes by the name of 'Rock-N-Roll' last fought on May 21st in Houston, Texas.

Quarry who now resides in Houston, plans to go after the Texas Light-Heavyweight Championship,
sometime in mid-November. The 23 1/2 year-old boxer, will begin his training circuit in Albuquerque,
New Mexico on October 10th.

Mike Quarry >
"I will work out in Albuquerque, New Mexico > because they have some good Light-Heavyweights
out there. I want brisk work-outs, and there are a few young guys who are pretty good out of the
Paul Chavez Gym."

"I'm also practicing in Karate, and they have a great Karate Academy there. I plan on a 6-Week
training circuit, so that I will be in the best shape of my career when I return."

"I look at the Top 10 Ratings in 'Ring Magazine', and I know that I can beat at least half of them."

Ring Magazine Ratings

*** Bob Foster
#1 . Jorge Ahumada
#2 . John Conteh
#3 . Len Hutchins
#4 . Victor Galindez
#5 . Karl Heinz
#6 . Tom Bogs
#7 . Avenamar Peralta
#8 . Yaqui Lopez
#9 . Pierre Fourie
#10. Richie Kates

[Bill Paxtom]

Saturday ~ November 16, 1974 {Port Arthur, Texas}

~ Frankie Evans' Title Goes On The Line Tuesday Night ~

~ Texas Light-Heavyweight Championship ~

Texas Champion - Frankie Evans and Challenger - Mike Quarry will battle in a 12-Rounder
at the Coliseum in Houston on Tuesday - November 19th.

26 year-old Frankie Evans will put his Texas State Title on the line Tuesday. Evans who caused a
'stir' 2 years ago {December 1972} when held Mike Quarry to a 10-Round Draw in Miami Beach, Florida.

The result was 'controversial', as both fighters claimed they had won. Mike Quarry took the result much
harder, and was 'crying' uncontrollably in his locker room after the bout, threatening to quit the sport.

Frankie Evans >
"Mike knows that I won that fight, that is why he was behaving the way he was. He was embarrassed
that he got man-handled by an 'unknown' like me. I was supposed to be a set-up opponent, and was
supposed to lose. But I tricked them up, and fought like Hell."

"Now I want him bad for this rematch. I'm ready to defend my Title. I'm going to whip Quarry , and
then go back after Lonnie Bennett who has beaten me twice."

[Bill Paxtom]

Tuesday ~ November 19, 1974

Sam Houston Coliseum ~ Houston Texas

Promoter ......... Pete Ashlock

Attendance ....... 2475 ....
Gate Receipts.... $17,570

* Texas Light-Heavyweight Championship

* Mike Quarry - 43-5-3 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 11" ~ 175 lbs. ~ {Age; 23 years, 8 months}
vs.
* Frankie Evans - 21-17-1 {15 KO's} ~ 6' 0" ~ 176 lbs. ~ {Age; 26 years, 2 months}
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Frankie Evans Runs Out On Ring Career ~

Texas Light-Heavyweight Champion - Frankie Evans walked out of the Coliseum tonight, just 30-Minutes
before his Title Defense against Mike Quarry.

In a bizarre twist of events, Evans walked out of his dressing-room and out of the Arena which had
{ 2475 fans} waiting for the 'Main Event'.

Fight Promoter - Pete Ashlock > had to get into the Ring and explain just what had happened to the
disappointed crowd, who erupted with a chorus of boo's.

Pete Ashlock said to the crowd >
"Frankie Evans just walked out of the arena. He ran out on everybody. I will reimburse everyone
who has purchased a ticket."

Pete Ashlock also stated that > Mike Quarry would be awarded the Texas Light-Heavyweight Championship,
and that he was giving him the 'State Trophy'.

Mike Quarry >
"Frankie Evans is 'yellow'. That's all I want to say. How in the Hell did this guy get '39-Bouts' in his career.

Mike Quarry also 'refused' the State Trophy, stating that he wanted to win it in the Ring, and did
not want to accept it under these circumstances.

Mike Quarry >
"I'll fight any Light-Heavyweight in Texas. I think that the Texas Boxing Commission has '111' guys listed.
They can pick anyone of them. Just make sure that they get into the Ring, that's all I ask."

Mike Quarry was supposed to receive {22% of the Gate} as a Fight Purse, which was to total > { $3865 }

Mike Quarry >
"It's not the money. I can deal with that. But I really needed this fight {work}. I trained for 6-Weeks in
Albuquerque for this fight. What a waste of time and effort."

~ As A Courtesy To The Fans ~

Mike Quarry sparred 3-Rounds with his brother Jerry, who was here in attendance to watch his brother's
bout.

Mike Quarry also sparred 3-Rounds with Houston Heavyweight - Jody Ballard.

~ Bizarre Twist ~

Frankie Evans stated that he was under the impression that the bout was scheduled for 10-Rounds. And that
he was supposed to receive { $1000 } as a Fight Purse for the bout.

Then 30-Minutes before the bout he was told that the bout was scheduled for 12-Rounds, as he was handed
a Cashiers Check for { $500 }.

Frankie Evans >
"I'm not fighting a 12-Rounder for a lousy { $500 }. Just who do they think I am, a 'garbage picker'. For a
12-Rounder I get { $1200 }. Now for what they did to me, I want { $1500 }, or I'm not getting into the Ring."

Frank Bonura {Manager for Frankie Evans} >
"I tried to get Frankie to get into the Ring. But he wasn't going for the { $500 }. Frankie had owed me { $225 },
and I told him to forget about paying me back, if he just got into the Ring and went through with the fight. But
he just got up from the chair in the dressing room, and walked straight out of the arena without saying a word."

"What can I do. I can't grab him and force him to fight. That's it, I'm done with him."

Pete Ashlock {Fight Promoter} >
"This guy {Frankie Evans} is crazy. The guy has lost '6' of his last 7-Bouts. He isn't worth { $1500 }. He should
be thanking me for getting him a fight. I was doing him a favor. I'll never book him again, ever."