Rahman's claim carries weight, considering he shocked the world 24 years ago by knocking out Lewis in South Africa. That night, Rahman walked away with the WBC and IBF heavyweight titles in what's considered one of the biggest upsets in boxing history.
Lewis, often regarded as one of the greatest heavyweights of all time and the best British fighter ever, didn't let that loss define him. Seven months later, 'The Lion' got his revenge. In their rematch, Lewis stopped Rahman in the fourth round with a brutal left-right combo.
The initial upset put Rahman on the map, but Lewis's power left a lasting impression. In his recent interview, Rahman didn't hesitate when asked about the hardest hitter he'd faced.
"I would have to say Lennox Lewis, definitely."
Lewis's career speaks for itself. He won an Olympic gold medal at the 1988 Seoul Games before turning pro. As a professional, he became the undisputed heavyweight champion in 1999 after beating Evander Holyfield. Lewis won the heavyweight championship three times in total.
Rahman's career had its own highlights after the Lewis fights. He regained the WBC title in 2005 and defended it to a majority decision draw against James Toney in 2006. His resume includes bouts with other notable heavyweights like David Tua, Alexander Povetkin, and Wladimir Klitschko.
Lewis retired with only two losses on his record, both of which he avenged against Rahman and Oliver McCall. He effectively beat every fighter he ever faced, cementing his legacy as one of boxing's all-time greats.
Rahman's acknowledgment of Lewis's power adds another layer to the British-Canadian fighter's already impressive legacy. It serves as a reminder of the impact Lewis had in the ring, even on those who managed to beat him.