Evander Holyfield is often described as one of the greatest fighters in the history of boxing.
In a career that spanned 27 years, ‘The Real Deal’ enjoyed success as the undisputed champion at both cruiserweight and heavyweight, with both reigns coming during the ‘three belt era’.
During his illustrious career, the Olympic bronze medalist crossed paths with many of the greatest heavyweights of their time, including Lennox Lewis, Mike Tyson and George Foreman to name just a few.
Appearing on The Big Podcast With Shaq, Holyfield talks of his regret in facing Riddick Bowe and how he didn’t listen to advice given by his mother on why he shouldn’t have befriended potential opponents.
“Riddick Bowe is the first person that I didn’t listen to what my momma told me. My momma told me not to become friends with people you’re going to compete with. She said you’ll tell them too much.
Riddick Bowe was that guy. I started sparring with him at the age of 18 when he was getting ready to go to the Olympics. I became good friends with him.”
The Alabama-born Holyfield shared the ring with ‘Big Daddy’ on three separate occasions, with the first encounter coming in November 1992 when Bowe defeated Holyfield to become the first man to place a blemish on his then perfect record.
It was revenge for ‘The Real Deal’ in their rematch just a year later, which was followed by an eighth round stoppage victory for Bowe in their trilogy bout which took place on November 4 1995, which brought their rivalry to a halt.
