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Ken Norton Obituary
Norton had been in poor health for the last several years after suffering a series of strokes, a friend of the fighter said.
"He's been fighting the battle for two years," said Gene Kilroy, Ali's former business manager. "I'm sure he's in heaven now with all the great fighters. I'd like to hear that conversation."
Norton broke Ali's jaw in their first bout, beating him by split decision in 1973 in a non-title fight in San Diego. They fought six months later, and Ali narrowly won a split decision.
They met for a third time on Sept. 28, 1976, at Yankee Stadium and Ali narrowly won to keep his heavyweight title. Norton would come back the next year to win a heavyweight title eliminator and was declared champion by the World Boxing Council. But on June 9, 1978, he lost a bruising 15-round fight to Larry Holmes in what many regard as one of boxing's epic heavyweight bouts and would never be champion again.
Norton finished with a record of 42-7-1 and 33 knockouts. He would later embark on an acting career, appearing in several movies, and was a commentator at fights.
Norton started boxing when he was in the Marines, and began his pro career after his release from duty in 1967. He lost only once in his early fights but had fought few fighters of any note when he was selected to meet Ali. At the time, Ali was campaigning to try to win back the heavyweight crown he lost to Joe Frazier in 1973.
Few gave Norton, who possessed a muscular, sculpted body, much of a chance against Ali in the fight, held at the Sports Arena in San Diego, where Norton lived. But his awkward style and close-in pressing tactics confused his opponent and Norton broke Ali's jaw on the way to the decision that put him in the top echelon of heavyweight fighters.
TIM DAHLBERG, AP Boxing Writer
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
296 Entries
Randolph Brown
July 21, 2025
GOD BLESS YOU FAMILY AND ALL HIS FRIENDS
bernard campbell
June 8, 2025
amazing bravery..not too many remember..tunney they do..jammal herring..yea emersns boozer ..j frazier and never a bad word..i say the yankee stadium fight III was kens ...duane bobbick ..grant hill..winston no his son not griffey his own son mann sting go.. cornell/columbo we can do and glowe
Dia Singleton
May 2, 2025
One of the greatest that was ever in the game, my favorite boxer
Ken Norton!!!
Valenda Newell
June 26, 2016
I watching boxing last night, I started thinking about the old time favorites. KEN you were one of the best heavyweights I love to watch back in the 70's plus it didn't hurt you were good looking too. ..THANKS FOR SHARING YOUR BOXING SKILLS WITH THE WORLD......RIP
How you can show support
April 2, 2016
Semper Fi Marine RIP knowing that you accomplished, being a Dad and a U.S.Marine
kenneth samuels
March 1, 2016
one of the best boxer of all times kenneth norton r.i.p xx
One of my Fav boxers!
Rhonda Johnson
January 17, 2016
I was just watching Mandingo, hadn't seen in ages. You were do fine and still handsome to the end. A lot of peopler misd you, as a fan i miss you. RIP. Greetings and sympathies to the family and children of Ken Norton
alton darden
October 28, 2015
rip champ.
MARLYN JOHNSON
September 8, 2015
I remember 1963 at Camp Lejeune..You & Art Redden together winning it all for the Corps...we knew then that in you our boxing team had a wonder...WHAT A WONDER !...thank you for prooving us right...A very nice person-funny too..REST MY BROTHER..SEMPER FI...SEMPER FI .
Harry Simpson
September 18, 2014
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Saepe Expertus, Semper Fidelis, Fratres Aeterni.
Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
July 14, 2014
thanks for your service to our usa. peace and comfort to his family and friends.jw ..s.c.
sarah mazor
June 29, 2014
Champ,
it was a big honour for me seeing you smiling and your great heart and wonderful fights will always be a big inspiration for me as long as I live,
missing you very much,
Steve
June 2, 2014
It was with heartfelt sadness that I learned of Ken Norton's passing. He defeated "The Greatest" Muhammad Ali, making him one of the greatest boxers of all time. He was a gentleman and a credit to boxing who was twice given the title of "Father of the Year" by the Los Angeles Times and Los Angeles Sentinel. Ken
Norton once said "Of all the titles that I've been privileged to have, the title of 'dad' has always been the best."
Ken Norton - 1974
May 25, 2014
Ken Norton - 1977
May 25, 2014
Ken Norton - 1978
May 24, 2014
Don Drilling
April 11, 2014
One of the classiest heavyweights ever! The world lost a great man.
March 23, 2014
Loved Ken Norton, great human being and fighter. So sorry we have lost him
God Bless
Phil Brown, Columbia, Md
Isaac Christian Jr
February 8, 2014
Great Fighter RIP my Brother
Isaac Christian and family
January 20, 2014
May you rest in peace.
Linda Cappitti
January 12, 2014
I was so sad to hear of Ken,Sr`s.passing. He was a patient where I worked . He was so kind,funny and wonderful to staff and other patients. He was my brother`s hero and signed an autograph for him.
Condolences and blessings to his family and friends. He was a wonderful man.
Linda Cappitti
Gwendolyn Jackson
January 5, 2014
R.I.Love Ken Norton-
Kathy & Buddy & Our Cat Family
January 3, 2014
RIP Ken Norton.....we love you....sending prayers to the family...Angel Wings Always Around Us....
Kathy & Buddy & Our Cat Family
January 3, 2014
RIP Ken Norton....we love you....sending prayers to the family....Angel Wings Always Around Us.....
G. J. O.
December 29, 2013
May the God of comfort bring you peace. In Rev.:3,4 God promises us that death will be no more.
Jan Little
December 27, 2013
I met you a few years ago when u see were in town. You visited the Jacksonville Correctional Center Substance Abuse program. I shook your hand and told you my brother and sister were your school mates. We loved to see you Box. You brought great fame to Jacksonville! God Speed!
Björn Ljungberg
December 14, 2013
Thank you for Everything you give to boxing. Will Always remember you.
neil pasquale
October 30, 2013
to a great fighter and friend .neil pasquale
Rick Hilder
October 23, 2013
Kenny Norton was one of my childhood heroes. I just found out of his passing , my thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family and fans who admired him.
Beverly Beasley
October 14, 2013
Kenny, you were loved by all who met you, I haven't seen you since Ken Jr. was a little boy, you came to the bay area to visit my father and my husband and I came over to see you. When you see the rest of our family tell them hello. Much love.
Beverly Beasley
October 14, 2013
Rest in Peace Ken, we haven't seen you in a few years, but you have always been on my mind, my father was crazy about you and enjoyed your visit's as well as your mother and father's visit. I will not give away my father or grandfather's name's but the family knows who we are. God bless your family and tell my father, grandmother and grandfather hello. There was much love from us to you.
Damian Farnworth
October 8, 2013
A Wonderful Man And Great Boxing Champ Loved Forever
Monty Zopf
October 5, 2013
To the greatest fighter of all time,may you rest in peace.
October 5, 2013
R.I.P Champ.
Black Sheldon
October 5, 2013
You have my deepest sympathy for the family and friends.
Dan Proulx
October 3, 2013
Semper Fidelis Marine!
Chalanda Clark-Bailey
October 1, 2013
To Ken Norton Jr. and Family. My prayers are with you.
Tommys two idols...
TRISHA MORRISON
October 1, 2013
Dear Kenny...
Take care of my Tommy.
Bless you all.
Trisha Morrison
wife and widow of Tommy Morrison
October 1, 2013
To Ken,
You were a great friend and a fun workout partner. You also gave me great advise. I will miss you so much. Love, Milliane
God's Art
Jay Wither
September 30, 2013
May God forgive and accept him son ken back to Omega.
victoria williams-fitzpatrick-blanchard
September 29, 2013
Our condolences to the Norton family May Kenny rest in Peace. He made his mark in this world , be proud of his legacy and keep him in our memories always..
Billy Dillon
September 29, 2013
Ali was my favorite back in the days; however, you are a great CHAMPION. May you REST IN PEACE.
john amodeo
September 29, 2013
My sincerest condolences to the Norton family. I was honored to write his bio, 'Believe--Journey from Jacksonville.' Mr. Norton made me feel at ease and I was enriched by his bio and the struggles he endured. A remarkable man with a stellar record. I'm grateful to have known him. john v amodeo
STEPHEN BROWN
September 28, 2013
Rip Ken
Sandra Floreth Reeder
September 28, 2013
I just remember Kenny as a good guy, in high school. He always had a smile and was especially nice to one of my friends, just always taking the time to say Hi and tease her a bit when he walked past in the hall. She would blush but was happy. She passed away early in an auto accident in California in 1969. I know that your Dad also had an accident and that he had to persevere, as did you all. I am grateful to have known him a little and to see now all that he accomplished. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Joe Valdez
September 28, 2013
A True Warrior , a Marine and a tough fighter
Love You Ken
MARSHA BUTLER
September 28, 2013
KENNY R.I.P. IN 1973, I REMEMBER AS A LITTLE GIRL, MY FAMILY AND I WERE LIVING IN MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN. MY SISTER AND I HAD A BEDTIME SCHEDULE THAT WAS TIGHT. MY MOM AND DAD LET US STAY UP PAST OUR CURFEW, ONLY SO WE COULD SEE THE BOXING MATCH, OF KENNY BREAKING THE JAW OF THEN, CASSIUS CLAY, WHO IS NOW KNOWN AS MUHAMMED ALI. KENNY WAS FROM THE LITTLE TOWN OF JACKSONVILLE, ILLINOIS, WHERE WE HAD LIVED AT THE YEAR BEFORE MOVING TO MILWAUKEE. WE FOUND OUT KENNY WAS GOING TO TO BE HOME DURING THE SAME TIME WE WERE GOING TO BE THERE. I WAS AT MY AUNT HAZEL AND UNCLE PAUL'S HOUSE ON ANNA STREET WHEN KENNY WAS JOGGING PAST. I REMEMBER MY MOM (BARBARA DANIELS- WILSON) INTRODUCING MY SISTER AND I TO KENNY. I FOUND OUT YEARS LATER, KENNY WAS A TRACK STAR FOR HIS HOMETOWN. ANOTHER TIME WE GOT TO STAY UP LATE WAS WHEN KENNY ACTED IN THE MOVIE MANDINGO. PARENTS CENSORED WHAT THE KIDS WATCHED BACK THEN, SO WE HAD TO CUT THAT MOVIE SHORT AND GO TO BED A LITTLE EARLIER WHEN A SCENE NOT APPROPRIATE FOR KIDS WAS SHOWING. KENNY, YOU WILL BE MISSED AND IS A LEGEND IN YOUR TIME.
Debi Storm
September 28, 2013
I am a better person because of knowing you! You were truly a gentle giant. I was so honored that you allowed me into your world and have never been treated so much like a lady as from you and your friends. You will be missed by so many! Save me a place..... Love Deb
September 27, 2013
May you rest in peace Ken. You were one Awesome boxer in your days. May you rest in the arms of the angels. God bless u my friend.
Dick Fitzsimmons
September 27, 2013
As a class mate at JHS, thanks for the memories. My greatest clam to fame was our sop. year tackling practice. I was told to be the ball carrier and Ken was to tackle me. He did what he was told, ending my football by dislocating my sholder. Oh well.
RIP, Ken.
Mike Bogusz
September 27, 2013
The boxing world lost a great champion this past Wednesday. Ken, You will be missed, but never ever, be forgotten. Rest in peace champ!!!!!!!!
Lyman Pauli
September 27, 2013
RIP my hero. You were the man that drove me to become a boxer as a young child and later a pro. Glad I met you on a few occasions. The pleasure was all mine. God Bless YOU.
John Saxon
September 27, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Joyce Steele
September 27, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
ROD THOMPSON
September 27, 2013
I met Ken twice back in the early 2000's, while working for United Airlines at SFO airport. He was very funny, had a great sense of humor and was very down to earth and very kind. It was a pleasure meeting you Ken.....R.I.P.
A
September 27, 2013
Good night sweet Prince....
DENISE MOSS-KELLER
September 27, 2013
I PRAY FOR PEACE FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
Stuart Hennessey
September 27, 2013
R.I.P. ken a Champion and a Gentleman
Susan Guerin
September 27, 2013
Mr. Norton was an admired athlete. I watched him on Wide World of Sports with my father. He was a cool, humble champion who served us all well as an ideal champion. May God bless all who knew him personally and were blessed by him directly.
Amber Howe
September 27, 2013
Both of my parents, Sharon Dobson Woodworth and Rik Prewitt were classmates of Mr. Norton and both held him in high esteem. I understand my dad (who passed away in 2006) was a childhood friend also and that Mr. Norton's mother was my grandmother Prewitt's teaching aide at the State Hospital School. Many people from Jacksonville have these personal connections and lovely stories to tell. Jacksonville was and is very proud of Ken Norton.
Bernard Heald
September 27, 2013
R.I.P. Ken Norton a great marine a great fighter a legend and a wonderful human being goodnight god bless and sleep well your mission accomplished never to be forgotten one of a kind
scott gibbins
September 27, 2013
meet you once in the uk.a gentleman and a great boxer a legend of the 70s god bless
sallie mickens
September 27, 2013
My prayers for your family at this time
Ken will be missed by many. God bless you all.
Sergeant Major f. Michael Cline (USMC Ret.)
September 27, 2013
On behalf of everyone past, present and future United States Marine Corps ALL-Marine Boxing Team Members Coaches, Trainers & Boxers we give our upmost heartfelt condolences for a True Marine Warrior! Champ you have brought some much to our Corps and provide a legacy unmatched by others for all us to follow. As you have enter into the Kingdom of the Lords guiding hands know that God will keep you in his might grasp and tell all those Marines who guard the Pearly Gates to stand tall, salute and receive a Hall of Famer who has came to rest and let no one disturb but the angels assigned to him. Rest In Peace Champ. "Keep your hands up" and enjoy the ulimate victory being with God!!!! OOH RAH!!! SEMPER FIDELIS MARINE!!!! Respectfully and Honored, Sergeant Major F. MIchael Cline Sr. (USMC Ret.) Former USMC All-Marine BOxer, Coach & Trainer!!
Christopher Mandrachio
September 27, 2013
In every aspect of life Kenneth Howard Norton Sr. Excelled as an athlete, an Marine, as an Man. You were an inspiration to many young men who entered the squared circle. You exhibited Class an a demeanor that exemplified heart & desire. When describing yourself to the Media before your first fight with Muhammad Ali you, said you were an Ham & egger, you were so much more than that, you taught boys like myself how to win with humility & how to lose with Grace. You never complained. Rest in Peace Kenneth Howard Norton Sr. You will be missed by many & forgotten by none...
Pete Parry
September 27, 2013
Ken ALWAYS took time for his fans, despite his own physical problems he never turned away. He was a TRUE CHAMPION in every sense of the word. R.I.P. Champ... you will never be forgotten
Paula Boring
September 26, 2013
He was a great legend may god rest his soul.R.I.P Gone but never forgotten.
Dana Boring
September 26, 2013
My prayers go out to the family and may he rest in peace.
Pat Prewitt Taylor JHS "65
September 26, 2013
God Bless you Ken Norton, you have taught many a young person that if you keep trying anything can happen. My prayers are for your family.
John Ebrey
September 26, 2013
My prayers go out to the family. We have lost a great man. See you later Champ
JHS 1960 Undefeated!
Catherine Spencer Stewart
September 25, 2013
I wanted to offer my condolences to Mr. Norton's family. My father, J. Richard Spencer, who tragically passed away three years ago, also grew up in Jacksonville. Richard and Ken played football together at Jacksonville High! They were the two biggest players on the team, each weighing 200 lbs. when JHS went undefeated in 1960! I still have the little gold memorial football pendant that I assume they gave to every player. I wonder if you've ever seen Ken's? I shared a picture of my dad's, which I treasure. When I wear it, I have great memories of him. Anyway, you are all in my thoughts and prayers. I understand the pain of losing your dad. It's ALWAYS too soon. God be with you.
James "Teddy" Brinson
September 25, 2013
To my nephew Ken Jr. and the entire Norton family, I send my love to you and my prayers are with you. My thoughts are of my one time brother-in-law Ken Norton Sr. God Bless the family.
September 25, 2013
Family are in my prayers;I still have the memories of our reunion (about 25 years ago/and have treasured the memories of accussing Ken to have greduated at 11years of age according to his "birthdate" claimed back in those years! Wish I could be there to meat the family,but my thoughts are withyou all! Alma (Cox) McVicker
Kay
September 24, 2013
Rip champ! Prayers to the family.
Judith Perry
September 24, 2013
You will be missed
Oma Wheatley & Family
September 24, 2013
Our heartfelt prayers and sympathy are
with the Norton family, at this time.
May God bless and comfort you
Ernie Brown
September 24, 2013
I want to send prayers to the Norton family. I was blessed to have met Mr Ken Norton who was and will always be a champion in my heart. Mr Norton made me feel proud to be a Navy boxer. God Bless U Ken. Ernie Brown Cornerman.
Apostles Ben and Jay Postley
September 24, 2013
Kenny and I were friends as young teens. His family and my family were friends even when we moved to the suburbs of Chicago. We were distant cousins. My prayers are with the family. Blessings. Apostles Ben and Jay Postley, Panama City, Fl.
Kathryn Hackman
September 24, 2013
We are the Crimsons, mighty, mighty, Crimsons. That's who we are.
Bunny Rosenberger
September 24, 2013
Goodbye to a very special man and champion. My father loved you like a son and took such great pleasure in your visits and of all your accomplishments. You will be missed, condolences to your family.
Tom Dailey
September 24, 2013
I graduated with Ken in 1961 from Jacksonville High School. Several years ago, I wrote to our classmates about a kind and uplifting act by Ken during his trip to St. Paul (when I live) for a prize fight in mid-October 1976. How he had sent to the hospital intensive care ward where my infant daughter was slowly recovering from a serious illness a cluster of bright helium-filled balloons and a small stuffed bear with a Get Well Soon card in which he'd handwritten a special note to this tiny girl, by remembered name, and signed as “your Dad's friend.”
During our short visit on that trip, I neglected to mention to Ken how – after graduation - I had lost track of him until 1965, when I was stationed at Goodfellow Air Force Base in Texas. That was where the USAF boxers were training for the Pan American games. On a visit to their gym to watch workouts, I asked the Airmen what they thought of their chances at the Games. “Not too bad,” they agree, “except for heavyweight – they may was well just mail that to Ken Norton, the Marine.” That was the first I knew of Ken's boxing or service enlistment but, true to the “crimson & white,” I told those guys that I knew Ken personally from high school, had participated in varsity track and football with him, and could vouch for the fact that “he is big, durable, fast, determined and smart.” They groaned and I went back to my barracks to pray that Ken would win at the Pan Am Games, and was delighted when he later did – and, soon after, announced for the pro's.
Today, my prayers are simply for his eternal freedom from the discomforts that he accumulated over the years, heavenly peace, the good company of others who also gave much to his sport, and time to look back on the gentle care and good humor that he sowed among the many he cared for and who now miss him.
Henry Votsmier
September 24, 2013
Thanks for the memories champ. One of the classiest people around.
Rhondia Richardson-McPike
September 24, 2013
Our deepest condolences to all the family of KEN NORTON's. May GOD continue to give the entire family comfort, strenght, peace, and many blessings during this time. Ken was a great man and a wonderful person. Even though he has gone home, he will always be remembered and thought of daily within our hearts. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. R.I.P Ken, we love you! The Richardson and McPike families.
Warren Henderson
September 24, 2013
I salute you fellow Marine may you rest in peace.Mr.Norton made me proud to be a Marine and a Black Man.God Bless the family and friends thank you all for sharing Mr.Norton with the world.
Gale Bowens
September 24, 2013
Ken Norton remains to be one of the greatest fighters of his times. May he rest in peace. To the family of Ken, know he is in a better place. May fond memories of your time with Ken bring you happiness and peace.
Gary Moore
September 24, 2013
I'm from louiville and a alli fan But; I always thought you beat him.My gods grace and mercy be with you snd your family. THANKS FOR THE GREAT MEMORIES .Rest in peace Champ.
Tonda Stouffe
September 24, 2013
I am sorry for your loss. I worked with his mother Ruth for years and met Ken at her funeral.
Bob Galvan
September 23, 2013
God bless you Ken.I got to meet you a couple of times and got a great picture with you.You were one of the Greatest Heavyweights of all time. RIP
Cyndi and Mack Hines
September 23, 2013
Your mom was an angel to me, Ken as you were to my husband . Rest in peace and know you are loved!
Patrick Fiorill
September 23, 2013
May you rest in eternal peace and happiness. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family; may you find peace.
Fred young sanford Houpe
September 23, 2013
I AM HURT BUT PROUD TO HAVE HAD A FRIEND LIKE ken Norton , we tain together and both had Coach Bill Slayton as our trainer. I can say this to Ken Norton jr. You made your dad the happiest Dad in the World when you won the Super Bowel. I was with him . God bless the family and may you remine strong.
September 23, 2013
May you find comfort knowing God cares for you and will comfort you threw this diffuilt time.My deepest condolence
Bernice Anderson
September 23, 2013
May GOD always bless you're family. Your father was a good man.
dave martinez
September 23, 2013
Such a great man, class act too. Champion Forever!
Becky Joyce
September 22, 2013
Rest in Peace! I am glad I was able to shake your big hand! your are the only famous person I ever got to shake hands with.
Alice Herrera
September 22, 2013
To the Norton family, I am so sorry for your loss. I grew up watching the Friday Night Fights with my Dad...and I remember Ken Norton was always right in there going "toe to toe" with the best of them!...He will surely be missed! Now he is in the arms of the Father who "knoweth all things.” Pray to Him for strength during this difficult time. May God bless you and thanks for sharing your loved one with all the world. What a "legacy" he left behind!
Bobbi Russell
September 22, 2013
To the family of Ken Norton,,God has spoken and called his child home. Be strong and know that God donot make mistakes it was just Ken time to Shine in Heaven as he shined here on earth. May God continue to bless all of you.
A long time Fan
Floyd and Bobbi Russell And Family
Sherry
September 22, 2013
May God give you peace, bless you and keep you in his will.
Mary Mitchell Daniels
September 22, 2013
To the family of Ken Norton, I will always remember Kenneth as a polite and friendly young man, also his laughter was very contagious. God bless you all.
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