Joe Lewis(1944-2012)

Blond, muscular, tall, handsome, and the greatest heavyweight point-fighter and kick-boxer of the 1960s and 70s, Joe Lewis coined the phrase,"American Kickboxing". He fought in the first kick-boxing heavyweight title fight in 1970. Had one of the greatest point-fighting careers in history. Lewis is one of only 5 men to defeat the legendary Chuck Norris. Turned professional in 1970. Was undefeated in his first 12 fights, all by knockout. The first kick-boxing champion to appear on the cover of the RING Boxing Magazine. Retired after losing back-to-back decisions. Years later, launched a highly publicized ring comeback. Achieved a world ranking, but failed to recapture his lost crown. Considered one of the top 3 greatest kick-boxing champions in history; some say he was the best.