Buster Douglas Biography

James "Buster" Douglas, born on April 7, 1960, is an American former professional boxer who competed from 1981 to 1999. He became undisputed world heavyweight champion in 1990 after defeating Mike Tyson in a bout widely recognized as one of the greatest upsets in sports history. As a 42 to 1 underdog, Douglas defeated the previously undefeated Tyson by knockout in the 10th round to claim the WBC, WBA, and IBF titles. After high school, Douglas played basketball as a 6'0" power forward for Coffeyville Community College in Coffeyville, Kansas, during 1977 and 1978. He won his first five professional fights before facing David Bey while weighing 20 pounds more than his typical fight weight. Following six additional victories, Douglas drew with Steffen Tangstad on October 16, 1982. In 1986, he competed in three bouts, winning two of them by defeating former champion Greg Page and contender David Jaco.