 He also later spent time in prison for drug possession .Guthrie was the 1985 National Golden Gloves middleweight champion

Guthrie turned pro in 1989 and captured the Vacant IBF Light Heavyweight Title in 1997 with a win over Darrin Allen.He was seen as a looming threat to Roy Jones Jr at light heavyweight due to his punching power, but instead of a unification bout, he lost the title in his next fight to Reggie Johnson by a knockout in the 5th.