Larry Holmes, the legendary heavyweight boxer known as "The Easton Assassin," has opened up about his career and admitted there was one champion he knew he couldn't beat - Mike Tyson.
Holmes, who dominated the heavyweight division for years with his powerful jab, started his professional career at 23 - relatively late for a boxer. Before turning pro, he gained valuable experience as a sparring partner for Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier.
In 1978, Holmes won the WBC heavyweight title in a close, hard-fought battle against Ken Norton. He went on to defend his title 17 times, facing tough opponents like Earnie Shavers, Mike Weaver, and Gerry Cooney.
A significant moment in Holmes' career came in 1980 when he defeated Muhammad Ali. While this victory solidified his claim as the heavyweight king, it was a bittersweet moment for Holmes, who beat a faded version of his former idol.
Holmes' undefeated streak stretched to an impressive 48 fights before Michael Spinks narrowly ended it in 1985. This loss prevented Holmes from surpassing Rocky Marciano's famous 49-0 record.
In the later stages of his career, Holmes made several attempts to regain the title, facing opponents like Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield. These attempts were unsuccessful, and Holmes eventually retired in 2002 at the age of 52.
One fight that still stings for Holmes is his 1988 bout against Mike Tyson. After a two-year layoff and out of shape, Holmes faced Tyson in his absolute prime. The outcome was a stoppage loss for Holmes.
Holmes revealed that he took the Tyson fight purely for financial reasons. He recounted a conversation with promoter Don King:
"I asked him who, and he said Mike Tyson. I said I can't beat Mike Tyson. Don said, what if I give you three and a quarter million dollars, and I said: 'Where's Mike at?'"
Despite the loss, Holmes' legacy as one of boxing's greats remains intact. His 23-year career, spanning 75 fights with only 6 losses, cements his place in boxing history.
After defeating Holmes, Tyson defended his title four more times before suffering a shock loss to Buster Douglas. This turn of events underscores the unpredictable nature of heavyweight boxing and the enduring legacy of fighters like Larry Holmes.
