Louisville native Jimmy Ellis, a former heavyweight champion, was honored with a Hometown Hero banner. The banner was unveiled on the Murphy Elevator Building on East Main Street in downtown Louisville.
Ellis’ Boxing Career
Ellis started his career as a middleweight but went on to win the WBA World Heavyweight Title by defeating Jerry Quarry in 1968. He reigned as World Heavyweight Champion from 1968 to 1970 before surrendering the title to Joe Frazier. Ellis passed away in May 2014, but his legacy lives on through the downtown symbol.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.