Larry Holmes is one of the greatest heavyweights in the history of boxing.
The 75-year-old from Georgia enjoyed an illustrious career which began in 1973 and ending in 2002. He held the world heavyweight championship for 8 years between 1978 and 1985, losing six times in a 75-fight campaign.
Holmes was part of that golden generation of heavyweights, which included the likes of Muhammad Ali, George Foreman, Joe Frazier and Ken Norton. He defeated Norton in 1978 to become WBC heavyweight champion, holding the coveted ‘green and gold’ belt for over 5 years.
Another legendary heavyweight who broke on to the scene a little later is Mike Tyson, who still holds the record for being the youngest world heavyweight champion in boxing history.
Tyson faced Holmes 1988, knocking ‘The Easton Assassin’ out in the fourth round to retain the undisputed heavyweight title. ‘Iron’ Mike was at his formidable best when he faced Holmes, despite being just 21-years-old at the time.
In a clip on Sky Sports Boxing’s Ringside show Sky Sports Boxing’s Ringside show, ‘The Easton Assassin’ was asked if Tyson would have survived in that golden era, to which he responded by saying this.
“I ain’t knocking Mike Tyson… No!
Joe Frazier would beat him up at his own style. Ali? Slap him all day with the jab. Kenny Norton? Too strong. George Foreman? 2 seconds.”
The 59-year-old from New York made a sensational return to the sport in November, facing YouTube star turned professional fighter Jake Paul.
‘Iron’ Mike managed to see out the eight round contest without suffering any serious damage, much to the delight of his fan base. He announced shortly after the bout with Paul that he would be going back into retirement, despite initially confirming his plans to fight on.
