Background
He was born in Milburn, Texas and was raised during the Great Depression.
He was born in Milburn, Texas and was raised during the Great Depression.
Jenkins scored knockout victories over noted fighters Lou Ambers, Tippy Larkin, and Mike Belloise. After winning the championship from Ambers Jenkins went wild, spending his money on whiskey, women and cars. He rarely went to sleep before dawn, drank recklessly and crashed several motorcycles and cars.
Fighting with an injured neck he suffered from a motorcycle crash, Jenkins was outpointed over 15 rounds.
He was involved in the Doctorate-Day invasion. Jenkins was decorated for gallantry and his actions, including the Silver Star, and saved several men after they were cut off behind enemy lines.
When the Korean War broke out he re-enlisted in the infantry. He attempted a comeback after World World War II, but was unable to regain his status as a top lightweight and welterweight.
He retired from boxing in 1950.
In 2003, Jenkins made the Ring Magazine"s list of 100 greatest punchers of all time. Jenkins died October 30, 1981 in Oakland, California. He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
On December 19, 1941 Jenkins defended his title against Sammy Angott.