Holyfield to replace de la Hoya in his fight against Belfort

After former six-weight world champion Oscar De La Hoya (39-6, 30 KOs) was forced to withdraw from his fight against former UFC champion Brazilian Vitor Belfort (1-0, 1 KO) due to coronavirus, the American was officially replaced by his countryman, 58-year-old Evander Holyfield (44-10-2, 29 KOs), the only ever four-time world heavyweight champion and former all-time featherweight champion.

American media reports that Holyfield vs. Belfort fight on September 11 in Hollywood, Florida (originally scheduled for tonight in Los Angeles) was scheduled for eight two-minute rounds, but according to recent press releases, it will not be an exhibition fight, although some call it so because of the short rounds. Interestingly, the California Athletic Commission has refused to sanction this bout.

Holyfield had his last fight in 2011, beating Brian Nielsen early in Copenhagen.

On the Triller Fight Club undercard night, Holyfield-Belfort viewers will also see, among others, a David Haye vs Joe Fournier exhibition bout.