Randall "Tex" Cobb, American boxer and actor
Randall Craig "Tex" Cobb, born on May 7, 1950, carved out a distinctive path through both the grueling world of professional boxing and the vibrant landscape of film and television. An American athlete and performer, Cobb's imposing presence and remarkable durability made him a memorable figure in the heavyweight division, a reputation he later leveraged in a successful acting career, often portraying tough-guy roles.

His Illustrious Boxing Career

Cobb's journey into the combative arts began in 1975 with full-contact kickboxing, a discipline that undoubtedly honed his toughness and striking ability. This foundation served him well as he transitioned to professional boxing just two years later, in 1977. Standing tall in the demanding heavyweight class, Cobb quickly became known for his relentless, brawling style and the sheer power he could unleash with his punches. Yet, perhaps his most legendary attribute was his "chin"—widely regarded as one of the greatest of all time. This incredible resilience allowed him to absorb punishment that would fell lesser fighters, making his bouts thrilling and often going the distance against formidable opponents.

One of the defining moments of his boxing career came in November 1982 when he stepped into the ring to challenge the formidable Larry Holmes for the coveted WBC and lineal world heavyweight titles. Despite a valiant effort, Cobb ultimately lost the contest by a one-sided unanimous decision. However, the fact that he went the full distance against a legendary champion like Holmes only further cemented his reputation for unyielding toughness. Throughout his career, Cobb collected significant victories over several notable heavyweights of his era, showcasing his skill and power against respected names such as Bernardo Mercado, the fearsome puncher Earnie Shavers, and the former Olympic gold medalist and world champion Leon Spinks. His consistent performance and tenacity earned him recognition within the sport's elite, with The Ring magazine ranking him among the global top 10 heavyweight boxers in both 1981 and 1982, a distinction echoed by BoxRec in 1982.

From Ring to Screen: An Acting Odyssey

Beyond the squared circle, Randall "Tex" Cobb seamlessly transitioned his imposing physique and distinctive persona into a vibrant acting career. His natural gravitas and tough-guy image made him a sought-after character actor, frequently cast in roles as a villain, henchman, or intimidating presence across numerous films and television series. This second career allowed him to extend his public profile, becoming a familiar face to audiences who might not have followed his boxing exploits.

Among his memorable screen appearances are roles in critically acclaimed productions and popular cultural phenomena. He notably contributed to the Coen brothers' quirky and beloved film Raising Arizona, adding his unique brand of tough-guy charm to their distinctive cinematic universe. On television, Cobb made an impact in iconic shows such as the stylish and groundbreaking crime drama Miami Vice, where his rugged look perfectly fit the gritty urban landscape, and the long-running action series Walker, Texas Ranger, often clashing with Chuck Norris's titular character. These roles showcased his versatility, proving that his charisma extended far beyond the boxing ring.

Frequently Asked Questions about Randall "Tex" Cobb

Who is Randall Craig "Tex" Cobb?

Randall Craig "Tex" Cobb is an American figure known for his multifaceted career as a former professional heavyweight boxer, a martial artist, and a distinctive character actor in film and television.

What was "Tex" Cobb's boxing style?

Cobb was renowned for his brawling style, characterized by relentless pressure and considerable punching power. He was most famous for possessing one of the "greatest chins of all time," meaning he was exceptionally durable and difficult to knock out.

Did "Tex" Cobb ever fight for a world title?

Yes, in November 1982, he unsuccessfully challenged Larry Holmes for the WBC and lineal world heavyweight titles. He lost by a unanimous decision but demonstrated incredible toughness by lasting the full fight.

Who were some of the notable boxers "Tex" Cobb defeated?

Cobb secured significant victories against esteemed heavyweights of his era, including Bernardo Mercado, the legendary knockout artist Earnie Shavers, and former unified world heavyweight champion Leon Spinks.

What are some of Randall "Tex" Cobb's notable acting roles?

He has appeared in a variety of films and television series, often playing villainous or tough-guy characters. Prominent examples include roles in the Coen brothers' film Raising Arizona and the popular television series Miami Vice and Walker, Texas Ranger.