Heavyweight Contender
In 1988 he won the NABF heavyweight title with a decision over the towering Larry Alexander, and followed it up with more easy points wins over respected challengers Renaldo Snipes, Jesse Ferguson, and ex-world champion Greg Page (boxer).
Page had been considered as an opponent for Evander Holyfield, however after defeating Page, the shot was not offered to Norris. In 1990 he was outboxed by crafty ex-world champion Tony Tubbs (a decision later changed to a no-decision after Tubbs tested positive for an illegal substance), and followed up that momentum killer with a further loss, an 8th round TKO to hard hitting Bert Cooper, where Norris was decked in the 8th round and twisted his knee, unable to continue.
In 1990 Norris regained some ground by beating future world champion Oliver McCall by split decision, and in 1991 regained his NABF title with a first round knockout of Lionel Washington. He defended the title against ex-world champion Tony Tucker, however lost on a controversial split decision, after it appeared Norris had outboxed his giant opponent rather easily.
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