Frank Bruno, the former British heavyweight boxer, has named Tim Witherspoon as the hardest hitter he ever faced in his career. This revelation comes as a surprise, considering Bruno's bouts with legendary boxers like Mike Tyson and Lennox Lewis.
Bruno shared this insight during a recent interview with The Business Excellence Channel. When asked about the heavyweight who hit him the hardest, Bruno didn't hesitate to name Witherspoon.
"A guy called Tim Witherspoon that I fought. Yeah, 15 rounds he was a dangerous man."
Bruno's career in the 1980s and 1990s saw him face off against some of boxing's biggest names. He stepped into the ring with Mike Tyson twice, losing both times by stoppage. He also fought Lennox Lewis, Oliver McCall, Carl Williams, and Joe Bugner.
The pinnacle of Bruno's career came in 1995 when he won the WBC heavyweight title at Wembley Stadium, defeating Oliver McCall. This victory, on his fourth attempt at a world title, was an emotional moment that delighted his many adoring fans.
'Terrible' Tim Witherspoon, a former sparring partner of Muhammad Ali, was a two-time heavyweight champion. Bruno and Witherspoon clashed in a WBA title fight at Wembley Stadium in 1986. Witherspoon won by knockout in the 11th round, securing his second short-lived reign as champion.
Witherspoon's career spanned several decades. He retired in 2003 with an impressive record of 55 wins from 69 fights, including 38 knockouts.
It's worth noting that despite losing to Mike Tyson twice, Bruno doesn't consider him the hardest hitter he faced. Bruno also recently admitted that Lennox Lewis was the only opponent he truly disliked.
Throughout his career, Bruno was known for his grit and sportsmanship, making him a firm fan favorite in British boxing. His ability to withstand powerful punches from various opponents makes his assessment of Witherspoon's punching power all the more significant.
