Career
A native of Portland, Oregon, Spencer made his professional boxing debut in May 1960. After building up a 31-5 record, which included wins over contenders Doug Jones, Brian London and Amos Lincoln, he was highly regarded enough to be a part of the eight-man WBA elimination tournament, held after Muhammad Ali had been stripped of the title. Despite entering the bout as a 6/4 favourite, Spencer lost to Quarry by a 12th round TKO. Spencer lost his next three fights by knockout, to Leotis Martin, Billy Walker and Mac Foster, and was never a serious title contender again.
He continued boxing until 1971, though without winning another bout.
Spencer died in his sleep on December 13, 2013 in Valleo, California. Spencer"s son Todd Spencer was a football star for United States.C., and played 3 seasons in the North.F.L. for the Steelers and the Chargers.