Classic Photo: Ken Norton vs Muhammad Ali

Ken Norton ad Muhammad Ali, I'm not 100% certain but I believe this is from their first fight at the Sports Arena in San Diego, California.

This Ken Norton autographed photo was a Christmas gift back in 2009-2010 (?) by my pal Scott Gombrich, one of the truly great and long lasting friends to come out of my years with McDonnell Douglas and Boeing. Much appreciated!

Ken Norton Has Passed Away

By Randy De La O

Former Heavyweight Champ Ken Norton has passed away. Norton fought during what was possibly the greatest heavyweight era in the history of boxing. He won the first of three fights with Muhammad Ali. He will be remembered as one of boxing's good guys.

On a personal note, I met Ken Norton in 1976,when I fought Eduardo Barba at the Aladdin Hotel in Las Vegas. He was one of the announcers/analysts for the fight. At 6"3' and with a Herculean build, he was an imposing figure. At one point during the fight I was up against the ropes, near Norton, when I heard him say, "I think De La O is tired". He was right, I was.

My family and I want to express our condolences to the Norton family.

R.I.P. Champ!