James Hughes (boxer)

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James Melvin Hughes (October 20, 1965 – July 25, 1995) was an American welterweight boxer from Mobile, Alabama. He turned professional in 1987 and was known for his appearances on USA Tuesday Night Fights. Nicknamed "Jesse James" and "The Outlaw," he lost to fighters like Maurice Blocker, Vincent Pettway, and James McGirt. After a 1994–95 winning run, he won the USBA welterweight title. His last bout was against Nick Rupa in late 1995.

Hughes was found dead in a swamp near his home after that fight. An autopsy noted some blunt head trauma but could not determine the exact cause of death. There were no knife or gun wounds. Trace amounts of cocaine were found in his liver, but not enough to kill him. The overall cause of death remained undetermined, though there was water in his lungs.