Larry Holmes, the former world heavyweight champion, believes he's the greatest heavyweight boxer of all time. He shared this bold claim in a recent interview with Sky Sports Boxing, challenging the widely held view that Muhammad Ali holds that title.
Holmes, known as 'The Easton Assassin', had a boxing career that spanned nearly three decades. He held the heavyweight championship from 1978 to 1985 and was famous for having one of the best jabs in boxing history. During his reign, Holmes racked up impressive wins against fighters like Leon Spinks, Trevor Berbick, and even Muhammad Ali himself.
In his interview with Sky Sports Boxing, Holmes didn't hold back when discussing his place in boxing history. He admitted to copying some of Ali's styles early on but claimed he improved upon them. Holmes also expressed frustration at the lack of recognition he's received compared to other boxers like Mike Tyson.
"Why can't I fit in that box, why does Muhammad Ali have to be the greatest, he can say he's the greatest, you can say he's the greatest, but I know different, I'm the greatest."
Holmes backed up his claim by pointing to his record. He defended his title 20 times over seven and a half years. In comparison, he noted that Mike Tyson only managed three or four defenses over seven months. Holmes also argued that his championship reign lasted longer than Ali's and that he had more title defenses.
It's worth noting that Holmes and Ali had a unique relationship. Early in his career, Holmes served as Ali's main sparring partner. The two eventually faced each other professionally in 1980, with Holmes becoming the only man to ever stop Ali in that fight.
Holmes held onto his title until September 1985, when he lost to Michael Spinks. Despite this loss and his controversial statements, Holmes' incredible jab and long reign as champion have secured his place among boxing's all-time greats.
