Boxing Only


Jerry Quarry

Jerry Quarry Profile Image
  • Nickname: Irish / Bellflower Bomber
  • Date of Birth: 15th May 1945
  • Died: 3rd January 1999 (53 years old)
  • Career length: 27 years 4 months
  • Status: Deceased
  • Nationality: USA Flag USA
  • Birthplace: Bakersfield, California, USA Flag Bakersfield, California, USA
  • Residence: Los Angeles, California, USA Flag Los Angeles, California, USA
  • Division: Heavyweight
  • Reach: 72"
  • Height: 6ft 0"
  • Stance: Orthodox
  • BoxRec: Jerry Quarry
  • Debut: 3rd June 1965

Biography

Jerry Quarry was an American professional boxer who competed from 1965 to 1992. Nicknamed "Irish" or "The Bellflower Bomber," Quarry was considered one of the most popular fighters during his peak career from 1968 to 1971. Despite never winning a world title, he is often regarded as one of the best heavyweights of his era.

Born on May 15, 1945, Quarry began boxing at a young age under his father's guidance. At the age of 19, he won the National Golden Gloves championship in 1965, knocking out all five of his opponents in the tournament—a feat that remains unmatched.

Quarry turned professional in 1965 and quickly made a name for himself. He won multiple fights and earned a spot in the World Boxing Association's tournament to replace Muhammad Ali, who had been stripped of his title. Quarry defeated former champion Floyd Patterson in the game but lost to Jimmy Ellis in the final.

Throughout his career, Quarry faced some of the biggest names in boxing, including two highly publicized fights against Muhammad Ali. In their first encounter in 1970, Quarry was cut badly over his left eye, resulting in a technical knockout loss in the third round. They met again in 1972, with Ali winning by a seventh-round stoppage.

Quarry also fought Joe Frazier twice, losing both times. Their first bout in 1969 was named Fight of the Year by Ring Magazine. Other notable opponents included George Chuvalo, Ron Lyle, Earnie Shavers, and Ken Norton.

Despite his toughness and skill, Quarry never captured a world title. He came close several times, but his propensity to cut easily and his struggles against elite-level competition kept him from achieving his ultimate goal.

Quarry retired in 1975 with a record of 50-8-4 but made brief comebacks in 1977 and 1983. His final fight came in 1992 at the age of 47, a six-round decision loss to Ron Cramner.

In his later years, Quarry suffered from severe dementia pugilistica, a condition caused by the repeated blows to the head he endured throughout his career. He could not care for himself and required constant assistance from family members. Tragically, Quarry passed away on January 3, 1999, at the age of 53.

Jerry Quarry's legacy in boxing is that of a fan favourite who always gave his best in the ring. Despite never winning a world title, his exciting style, toughness, and willingness to fight anyone made him one of the most famous boxers of his era. His battles with Ali, Frazier, and other top contenders remain memorable in boxing history. However, his story also serves as a sobering reminder of the long-term consequences that can result from a career in professional boxing.