Background
Born in Dublin, the son of boxer Spike McCormack, John McCormack grew up on Sean McDermott Street with five brothers and eight sisters.
Born in Dublin, the son of boxer Spike McCormack, John McCormack grew up on Sean McDermott Street with five brothers and eight sisters.
Known as "Young Spike" early on, he became better known simply as "Young McCormack". His professional career began in September 1963. In June 1966 he faced his namesake John McCormack in an eliminator for the British light heavyweight title at the Royal Albert Hall, winning on points.
McCormack made a second defence of his British title against Avoth in January 1969, and lost after being forced to retire in the eleventh round due to a cut to his left eyelid.
McCormack had five further fights in 1969, winning three but losing to Guinea Roger and Tom Bogs. In April 1970 he had his final fight, another shot at the British title against Avoth.
McCormack was disqualified in the eighth round.
McCormack successfully defended the title against Richards in November 1967, and in February 1968 faced Bob Dunlop at the Sydney Stadium for the vacant Commonwealth title. Dunlop stopped McCormack in the seventh round.