Michael Spinks turned professional with a win over Eddie Benson, knocked out in one round on April 17, 1977 in Las Vegas. With that, Spinks began a 31 fight winning streak that would almost extend to the end of his career. After four more wins, Spinks finished '77 with the first fight that began a gradual ascent in opposition quality: an eight-round decision over Gary Summerhays, a popular young boxer of the time. In 1978, Spinks won two fights, including an eight-round decision over former world Middleweight title challenger Tom Bethea, in the same undercard where his brother Leon dethroned Ali as
Michael Ponce de Leon Michael Ponce de Leon Michael Ponce de Leon (1922-2006; Mexico) He has exhibits in more than sixty museums in the United States and throughout Europe, as a painter and printmaker. He was given a one person-exhibition by Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington D.C., and has been awarded over 65 purchase prices or medals. Ponce de Leon is the recipient of Guggenheim Fellowships; Two Tiffany Foundation Fellowships, and a Fulbright Grant for Scandinavia. He has taught at Art Students League; Pratt Graphics Center and Pratt Institute; New York University; University of Pennsylvania, and Columbia University, NY, as well as directed