Lennox Lewis, the former undisputed world heavyweight champion, has made it clear that Muhammad Ali stands as the greatest heavyweight boxer in history.
Lewis shared his opinion on April 4, 2023, responding to a post on his X account. When someone suggested Ali wasn't even in the top 10, Lewis didn't hesitate to set the record straight.
"You're right. He's not top 10… he's number 1."
This statement carries weight coming from Lewis, who's got an impressive boxing career himself. He won the Olympic super-heavyweight gold medal in 1988 and turned pro shortly after. In 1992, he became the WBC heavyweight champion when Riddick Bowe vacated the title.
Lewis's path to the top wasn't without bumps. He lost to Oliver McCall in 1994 but came back strong, avenging that defeat three years later. In 1999, he reached the pinnacle of his career, becoming the undisputed world heavyweight champion.
Despite these achievements, Lewis doesn't see himself as the best. He gives that honor to Ali, whose career was nothing short of legendary.
Ali burst onto the scene as an Olympic gold medalist and quickly made his mark in the pro ranks. He shocked the world in 1964 when he stopped Sonny Liston in the sixth round to become world heavyweight champion.
Ali's career took an unexpected turn in 1967 when he refused to serve in the Vietnam War. This decision kept him out of the ring for three years. But Ali came back stronger than ever.
In 1974, he reclaimed the heavyweight championship in the famous "Rumble in the Jungle" against George Foreman. Throughout his career, Ali faced and defeated a who's who of heavyweight boxing, including Floyd Patterson, Ken Norton, and Joe Frazier.
Lewis's own case as one of the best heavyweights is strong. He avenged both of his professional losses and had notable victories over fighters like Evander Holyfield, whom he fought to a split decision draw before winning a unanimous decision in their rematch.
But for Lewis, Ali's impact and achievements put him in a league of his own. His tweet leaves no room for doubt - in the world of heavyweight boxing, Muhammad Ali reigns supreme.
