Larry Holmes is widely considered to be one of the greatest heavyweights to have ever graced the sport.
Known as ‘The Easton Assassin’, Holmes’ storied professional career began back in 1973 and would go on to span across four decades up until his retirement in 2002.
He reigned as the world heavyweight champion for seven years between 1978 and 1985, racking up victories over the likes of Leon Spinks, Trevor Berbick, James Smith and ‘The Greatest’ Muhammad Ali along the way.
His world title reign came to an end when he was beaten by Michael Spinks in September of 1985, before he fell short in their rematch just a few months later. He challenged unsuccessfully for the world heavyweight championship on several occasions before his retirement, although he is still regarded as being one of the best heavyweights of his era.
Long before he rose to the pinnacle of the heavyweight division within the paid ranks, Holmes worked his way to an Olympic Games semi-final bout in 1972 when he faced the hard-hitting Nick Wells.
In resurfaced footage, Holmes is shown to suffer a devastating first round knockout defeat to Wells when they clashed back in 1972 – actually the second stoppage Wells scored over the legend – in what proved to be one of his final amateur bouts before he entered the professional ranks one year later.
Rare footage of future Heavyweight Champ and ATG Larry Holmes getting absolutely blitzed in one round by monster puncher Nick Wells during the 1972 Olympic Trials.#Boxingpic.twitter.com/ebR8QBgq4O
— Aris Pina (@PunchZoneAris) August 24, 2025
Whilst he fell short in his attempt at representing the USA in the Olympic Games, Holmes would go on to write his name into boxing history throughout the course of his professional career, proving himself to be one of the greatest heavyweights to have ever laced up the gloves.
As for Wells, the popular Texan turned pro in 1976 and would hang up the gloves seven years later with a record of 16 wins (15 KOs) and seven losses.
