James Tillis is an American former professional boxer and actor. Known as "Quick", he was famous for his remarkable fast hand speed for a man of his size and build. A natural southpaw, Tillis changed to orthodox midway in his amateur career. His left remained the stronger hand and for that reason, he had a powerful jab and left hook, together with the ability to switch stances while fighting. Tillis challenged for the WBA world heavyweight title in 1981, but was defeated in a fifteen-round unanimous decision fight against Mike Weaver. Tillis was the first man to go the distance with Mike Tyson in 1986, breaking his knockout-streak and giving him a close fight, nearly a draw, with two of three judges scoring the fight 6-to-4. He holds notable wins over Ron Stander by TKO in the 7th round in 1980, and the hard punching Earnie Shavers by ten-round decision in 1982.