Eddie Mustafa Muhammad facts for kids

Eddie Mustafa Muhammad (born Edward Dean Gregory on April 30, 1952) is a famous American former professional boxer. He was once the world champion in the light heavyweight division, holding the title from the WBA. After his boxing career, he became a boxing trainer and sometimes acted in movies.

Early Boxing Days

Before he became a professional, Eddie boxed as Eddie Gregory. He won two New York Golden Gloves Championships. This is a big amateur boxing competition.

He won the 147-pound Open Championships in both 1971 and 1972. In 1971, he beat Vito Antuofermo, who later became a middleweight champion. The next year, he won against Patrick Maloney. Eddie trained at the Police Athletic League's Howard Houses in Brooklyn, New York.

Professional Boxing Career

Eddie Mustafa Muhammad was known as "Flame" when he turned professional in 1972. In 1977, he fought for the WBA Light Heavyweight Title. He lost this fight to Víctor Galíndez.

Becoming a World Champion

Eddie got another chance at the title in 1980. He fought Marvin Johnson and won in the 11th round. This made him the WBA Light Heavyweight Champion!

He successfully defended his title two times in 1980. In 1981, he lost a fight that was not for his title. Later that year, he lost his championship belt to Michael Spinks.

Later Fights and Retirement

After losing his title, Eddie fought many smaller matches. In 1985, he got another shot at a world title. This time it was for the IBF Light Heavyweight Title against Slobodan Kacar. Kacar won by a very close decision.

Eddie fought three more times after that. He made a short comeback in 1988. However, he stopped boxing for good later that year after losing a fight.

Acting Roles

Besides boxing, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad also appeared in two movies. In the 1980 film Raging Bull, he played the role of Billy Fox. He also appeared as himself in the 1981 movie Body and Soul. He also appeared in a 2008 film called Hope for the Broken Contender.