Montell Griffin’s Two Wins Over James Toney Deserve More Recognition

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Montell Griffin is often remembered for the controversial disqualification victory over Roy Jones Jr., but that moment tells only part of his story. Two victories over James Toney, a world title and years spent against the division’s leading names define a career worthy of far greater recognition.

Griffin first emerged as a serious contender by improving to 14-0 with a victory over fellow unbeaten Ray Lathon. His reputation took another step forward in February 1995 when he upset former IBF super middleweight champion James Toney to win the vacant IBF Inter-Continental light heavyweight title. Many viewed the result as one of the year’s biggest surprises after Toney had previously lost only to Roy Jones Jr.

Any thought that the first victory was a fluke disappeared two years later. Griffin defeated Toney again, becoming one of the few fighters to own multiple victories over the future Hall of Famer. Between those wins, Griffin also claimed the NABF light heavyweight title by stopping Matthew Charleston in July 1996.

Griffin never relied on overwhelming punching power. He built his success through disciplined footwork, timing, and accurate counterpunching that often frustrated opponents looking to force the action. That patient style allowed him to compete with elite fighters despite giving away advantages in natural strength against some rivals.

The defining night of Griffin’s career came in March 1997 against unbeaten WBC light heavyweight champion Roy Jones Jr. Griffin was knocked to one knee late in the ninth round when Jones landed another punch while Griffin remained down. Referee Tony Perez immediately disqualified Jones, awarding Griffin the championship in one of boxing’s most controversial finishes. The rematch left no debate, as Jones reclaimed the title with a first-round knockout, handing Griffin the first defeat of his professional career.

Griffin remained among the division’s leading contenders for several more years. He won seven straight fights following the Jones rematch before losing the NABF title to Eric Harding. He later challenged unbeaten WBO champion Dariusz Michalczewski in Germany, captured the WBC Continental Americas title with a victory over Derrick Harmon, regained the NABF title against George Khalid Jones, and received another world title opportunity against Antonio Tarver for the vacant IBF and WBC championships.

Griffin retired with a professional record of 50-8-1 with 30 knockouts after facing one of the deepest collections of opposition of his era. Although the disqualification victory over Roy Jones Jr. remains the most replayed moment of his career, it should not define his legacy. His two victories over James Toney, world championship reign, and willingness to face elite competition make Griffin one of the most accomplished light heavyweights of his generation.