Jimmy Ellis - Definition and Overview

James Albert "Jimmy" Ellis (1940-present) was an American prizefighter who held the World Boxing Association Heavyweight title from 1968 to 1970.

Vacated by the organization a year earlier when it ceased recognition of childhood friend Muhammad Ali for refusing to enter military service, Ellis captured the vacant WBA title by defeating Jerry Quarry on April 27, 1968. He would reign as champion until being defeated in 1970 by Joe Frazier.

Ellis would continue boxing until 1975. Today though he suffers from dementia pugilistica, he remains active in the Louisville community, working with youth groups, senior citizens, and young aspiring fighters.