James Kinchen


James Kinchen is an American former professional boxer who competed from 1980 to 1992. Nicknamed "the Heat", Kinchen is best known for his bout against Thomas Hearns for the inaugural WBO super middleweight title. He also challenged twice for world titles at light heavyweight.

Amateur career

Kinchen started his career out of McKinney, Texas as a three-time Golden Gloves champion, as well as three-time Southwestern AAU champion. He ended his amateur career with a record of 127-12.

Professional career

Kinchen made his professional debut on August 8, 1980, defeating O'Daniel Marks via first-round knockout at the Dallas Convention Center. He won his first title on November 24, 1984, stopping Alex Ramos via ninth-round KO for the USBA middleweight title. He later captured the vacant NABF super middleweight title on October 13, 1988 with a unanimous decision victory over Marvin Mack. Less than a month later he challenged Thomas Hearns for the newly-created WBO super middleweight title, replacing an injured Fulgencio Obelmejias. Kinchen knocked Hearns down in the fourth round of the fight, but ultimately lost a close majority decision. Kinchen also challenged for the WBA and IBF light-heavyweight world titles.

Professional boxing record

Pro boxing titles

  • USBA middleweight champion
  • NABF middleweight champion

    Personal life

Kinchen now resides in San Diego, California. Also a convert to the Church of God in Christ, longtime member now Pastor of Helping Hand COGIC.