Holmes, known as "The Easton Assassin," started his pro career in March 1973 and hung up his gloves in 2002. He racked up an impressive record of 69 wins and just 6 defeats. Holmes grabbed the heavyweight title in 1978 and held onto it for 20 defenses, beating big names like Ken Norton, Muhammad Ali, Trevor Berbick, and Gerry Cooney along the way.
When asked about the hardest puncher he ever faced, Holmes didn't hesitate. He told Boxing News:
"Earnie Shavers, no doubt about it. He could knock the hell out of you!"
Shavers earned a reputation as one of the biggest punchers in boxing history. He racked up 76 victories in his career, with a whopping 70 coming by knockout. Shavers and Holmes met in the ring twice. Their first bout in March 1978 went the distance, with Holmes winning by unanimous decision. They faced off again in September 1979 when Holmes was the world champion. This time, Holmes stopped Shavers in the 11th round.
Shavers got two shots at the world title in his career. He lost a unanimous decision to Muhammad Ali in 1977, though he famously rocked Ali several times during the fight. His second title shot came against Holmes in their 1979 rematch.
Holmes' career wasn't all smooth sailing. He suffered back-to-back defeats to Michael Spinks, ending his 48-fight unbeaten streak. In 1988, Mike Tyson stopped him inside four rounds. Holmes also fell short in world title challenges against Evander Holyfield and Oliver McCall later in his career.
Shavers retired in 1995 and passed away in 2022 at the age of 78. Before his death, he shared his thoughts on who was better between Ali and Holmes, though the details of his opinion weren't included in the article.
Holmes' praise for Shavers' punching power speaks volumes, considering the caliber of opponents he faced throughout his career. It's a testament to Shavers' legendary status as one of boxing's most feared punchers.