John Tate (boxer) - Definition

John Tate was an American prizefighter and Olympian boxer who briefly held the World Boxing Association Heavyweight title from 1979 to 1980.

Tate captured a bronze medal at the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games, and would go on to capture the WBA title on October 20, 1979 by defeating Gerrie Coetzee by decision, succeeding Muhammad Ali, who had relinquished the title that summer. Tate's reign would be brief, however, as he would lose the title to Mike Weaver just five months later.

Tate's life after his championship reign was brief and troubled, suffering from a cocaine addiction during the 1980's, being convicted on petty theft and assault charges, serving time in prison, and at times panhandling on the streets of Knoxville, Tennessee.

On April 9, 1998, Tate would die of injuries sustained following a one-car automobile accident. His career record was 34-3, with 23 wins by knockout.