Gerrie Coetzee vs Michael Dokes - boxing - WBA heavyweight title

Michael Dokes, WBA heavyweight world champion, vs Gerrie Coetzee, scheduled for 15 rounds

Date: September 23, 1983

Venue: Coliseum, Richfield, Ohio

Dokes stance: orthodox

Coetzee stance: orthodox

After Michael Dokes had taken Mike Weaver's WBA title from him in what was at the time the quickest heavyweight world title victory, he had the world at his feet. The only blemish on his 26-0-1 record had been a draw with Ossie Ocasio that he had brutally avenged in a rematch. As an 18 year-old five-fight novice, he had given a good account of himself in an exhibition with Muhammad Ali. No one denied Dokes had talent in abundance. His gimmick of throwing roses into the crowd at ringside ensured he got plenty of positive media attention.

The first signs that Dokes wasn't quite as good as his promoters claimed came during his rematch with Weaver. After 15 hard rounds, many observers felt Dokes had been rather lucky to get a draw and retain his title. Up next was the challenge of Gerrie Coetzee.

By coincidence, Coetzee had also drawn his previous fight against Pinklon Thomas over ten rounds (was this the first time two boxers had fought for a world title after both of them had drawn their previous bouts against different opponents?). Many at ringside felt the South African had done just enough to earn a win over Thomas. This was Coetzee's third attempt to win a world title and his first challenge without home advantage. No one doubted the challenger had the skills and the power to win, but did he have the self confidence and determination? In short, did he have the heart of a champion?

For an in depth look at their respective records, visit:

Michael Dokes - https://boxrec.com/en/box-pro/251

Gerrie Coetzee - https://boxrec.com/en/proboxer/176