Originally posted by QueensburyRules
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Larry Holmes,
When he defeated Ken Norton {June 9, 1978} Larry woud have 1-year before he was
required to make a 'mandatory' defense versus the #1 WBC Challenger.
Larry, then was entitled to a 'non-mandatory defense', which was the Alfredo Evangilsta bout
on November 10, 1978.
Larry was then, going to defend his title versus the Jimmy Young vs. Ossie Ocasio rematch
winner, which was held on January 27, 1979.
Ossie wins, and Larry fights Ocasio on March 23, 1979.
Ken Norton, after losing to Larry Holmes on June 9, 1978 - temporarily retired.
Kenny came back on November 10, 1978 (Larry Holmes vs. Alfredo Evangilista undercard),
and stops Randy Stephens (who had just upset Stan Ward).
Kenny was promised a June 1979 bout versus Larry Holmes, but he decided to take some big
bucks to foolishly fight Earnie Shavers in March 23, 1979 - (on the Larry Holmes vs. Ossie Ocasio undercard).
Kenny 'did' not need the Shavers bout to get a rematch.
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