Holmes shared his thoughts in a recent interview with Seconds Out. He based his claim on his impressive boxing record, which includes 75 fights, 69 wins, and 44 knockouts. Holmes also mentioned that in the six fights recorded as losses, he believes he didn't actually lose.
"No matter how good of a fighter I was and I consider myself as one of the greatest fighters of all time, people don't wanna hear that but the facts is in the pudding. Listen who beat me? My record speaks for itself, 75 fights, 69 wins, 44 knockouts, in the six fights they say I lost I didn't lose, and Muhammad Ali even when I beat him they said well he was old, so we gotta get old, if he can't do the things stay out of the ring… I think I have the right to say that I'm the greatest"
Holmes' claim comes as a surprise to many, as Ali is often called "The Greatest" in boxing circles. Ali's career was filled with memorable moments, starting with his professional debut in 1960, just months after winning Olympic gold in Rome.
Ali grabbed his first world title in 1964 when he stopped Sonny Liston in the sixth round in Miami. He went on to defend his title nine times. One of Ali's most famous victories came in 1974 during "The Rumble in the Jungle" where he knocked out George Foreman in the eighth round in Zaire.
Holmes and Ali did face each other in the ring in 1980, with Holmes coming out on top. However, this fight was the second-to-last in Ali's career, and there were concerns about Ali's health at the time.
Despite Holmes' technical brilliance and outstanding ability, his claim to be greater than Ali is sure to spark debate among boxing fans. Many still see Ali as the greatest fighter to ever step into the ring. Holmes, however, feels his record gives him the right to make this bold statement.
As the discussion continues, it's clear that both Holmes and Ali have left lasting impacts on the sport of boxing, each with their own unique legacy.