Professional Boxer. He was the former World Boxing Association Heavyweight Champion (1965 to 1967). He turned professionally in 1957 and went on to win his first eight contests. This time period also saw Terrell form his music ensemble "Ernie Terrell and the Heavyweights" which featured his younger sister Jean Terrell who succeeded Diana Ross as lead singer of "The Supremes" in 1970. During the pinnacle of Terrell's boxing career, the six foot six inch figure scored victories over such quality opponents as Cleveland Williams, Zora Folley (both in 1963) and Bob Foster (1964, who would go on to become the World Middleweight Champion). Terrell defeated Eddie Machen in 1965 to capture the World Boxing Association crown and defended the title twice, before suffering a unanimous decision loss to Muhammad Ali in February of 1967. Terrell will probably be best remembered for that bout in which Ali (formerly known as Cassius Clay who converted to the Black Muslim faith) taunted him by repeatedly saying "What's my name?", as a result when Terrell referred to Ali by his former name. He retired in 1973 with a 46 win (21 knockout), 9 loss record.
Professional Boxer. He was the former World Boxing Association Heavyweight Champion (1965 to 1967). He turned professionally in 1957 and went on to win his first eight contests. This time period also saw Terrell form his music ensemble "Ernie Terrell and the Heavyweights" which featured his younger sister Jean Terrell who succeeded Diana Ross as lead singer of "The Supremes" in 1970. During the pinnacle of Terrell's boxing career, the six foot six inch figure scored victories over such quality opponents as Cleveland Williams, Zora Folley (both in 1963) and Bob Foster (1964, who would go on to become the World Middleweight Champion). Terrell defeated Eddie Machen in 1965 to capture the World Boxing Association crown and defended the title twice, before suffering a unanimous decision loss to Muhammad Ali in February of 1967. Terrell will probably be best remembered for that bout in which Ali (formerly known as Cassius Clay who converted to the Black Muslim faith) taunted him by repeatedly saying "What's my name?", as a result when Terrell referred to Ali by his former name. He retired in 1973 with a 46 win (21 knockout), 9 loss record.
Bio by: C.S.
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