Jimmy Young Defeats Jose 'King' Roman ~ 'Gets To Challenge Muhammad Ali Next'

[Bill Paxtom]

Friday ~ February 20, 1976

Coliseo Roberto Clemente ~ San Juan, Puerto Rico

Jimmy Young ~ 16-4-2 {5 KO's} ~ 6' 2" ~ 208 lbs.
vs.
Jose 'King' Roman ~ 47-14-2 {24 KO's} ~ 5' 10" ~ 196 lbs.
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'Little' Jimmy Young {209 lbs.} pounded out an easy but somewhat boring 10-Round
Decision over Puerto Rico's ~ Jose 'King Roman {196 lbs.}

The 27 year-old - Philadelphia Heavyweight utilized a 4" height and 5" reach advantage to send out
busy left-hands into the muscular Roman throughout the first 5-rounds.

Only in Rounds 6 and 7, did the shorter 29 year-old - Puerto Rican manage to make a fight out the bout,
as he bulled his way inside, and scored some fine flurries as Young laid back and played defense.

But a well-rested Jimmy Young put forth a strong charge in Round 8, as he had rested in the
previous 2-Rounds. Jimmy landed several jolting right-hands to the head of Roman who was
staggered 'twice'.

But Young who had Roman in serious trouble, inexplicably backed off, and let his squat
opponent off-the-hook.

With the bout well in hand, Young used a pesky left-jab to keep Roman on the outside
and away over the last 2-Rounds.

Most at ringside had Jimmy Young winning by a 99-93 score.

[Bill Paxtom]

"The Muhammad Ali 1976 Road Show"

In January 1976 , Muhammad actually agreed to defend his Title against Jimmy Young, after
Muhammad fought 'The Belgian Joke' Jean-Pierre Coopman.

It was to take place in San Jose, Costa Rica.

Muhammad was signed for $1,500,000 - and was guaranteed a 'favorable' judges
scoring table.