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Top 12 All-Time Worst Cheap Shots

Published: Friday, 18 September 2026 at 2:15 PM
Top 12 All-Time Worst Cheap Shots
Key Things to Know
  • The article lists some of the most famous and egregious cheap shots in professional boxing history.
  • Jack Dempsey knocked out Jack Sharkey in 1927 while Sharkey was complaining to the referee.
  • Floyd Mayweather Jr. knocked down Arturo Gatti in 2005 after the referee called to stop punching.
The Story in 60 Seconds

This article compiles some of the most egregious cheap shots in boxing history, defining them as blows landed when an opponent is not expecting it or cannot defend themselves. The list highlights famous incidents where fighters took advantage of distracted or downed opponents, often leading to controversial knockdowns, disqualifications, or no-contests.

Specific historical examples detailed include Jack Dempsey's 1927 knockout of Jack Sharkey and Floyd Mayweather Jr.'s 2005 knockdown of Arturo Gatti. Additionally, the list features Mike Tyson's late hit on Orlin Norris in 1999, which resulted in a no-contest, and Arthur Abraham's 2010 disqualification for hitting a downed Andre Dirrell.

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