Evander Holyfield thinks Riddick Bowe would've beaten Lennox Lewis if they fought early in their careers. The former heavyweight champ shared his opinion based on his experience fighting both boxers.
Holyfield, known as "The Real Deal," fought Bowe three times and Lewis twice during his career. He lost his WBA, WBC, and IBF heavyweight titles to Bowe in November 1992 but won back the WBA and IBF belts 12 months later. Their third fight in 1995 ended with Bowe knocking out Holyfield in the eighth round.
As for Lewis, Holyfield faced him twice in 1999. Their first fight ended in a controversial draw, with many thinking Lewis deserved the win. In the rematch eight months later, Lewis won by unanimous decision, taking Holyfield's WBA and IBF titles.
The rivalry between Lewis and Bowe started in 1992 when Bowe vacated the WBC belt to avoid facing Lewis. The bad blood between them continues to this day.
In a recent interview with Boxing Social, Holyfield shared his thoughts on who would've won if Lewis and Bowe had fought:
"If they fought early before Lennox got Emmanuel Steward, I think Riddick Bowe would've got him."
Holyfield's opinion highlights the impact of Emmanuel Steward on Lewis's career. Steward, who became Lewis's trainer, played a key role in improving "The Lion's" skills.
Lewis recently made headlines by commenting on Jake Paul's victory over Mike Tyson. It's worth noting that Holyfield also has history with Tyson, having beaten him in 1996 to become champion again.
The hypothetical Lewis-Bowe match-up remains one of boxing's great "what-ifs." While we'll never know for sure who would've won, Holyfield's insight adds an interesting perspective to the debate.
