Larry Holmes Lost To Mike Tyson But Names The Heavweight Legend Who Would KO Him With First Punch

Larry Holmes Lost To Mike Tyson But Names The Heavweight Legend Who Would KO Him With First Punch
Image credit: MVP

George Foreman and Mike Tyson are recognised as two of the greatest heavyweights in boxing history.

‘Big’ George was a dominant force within the heavyweight division during the late 1960’s and early 1970’s, before capturing the world heavyweight championship for the first time with a memorable win against Joe Frazier in 1973.

He walked away from the sport in 1977 after a number of difficulties inside and outside of the ring, but made a sensational return 10 years later, going on to become the oldest world heavyweight champion in history.

‘Iron’ Mike is another accomplished heavyweight who was at his formidable best throughout the late 80’s and early 90’s, as he became the youngest world heavyweight champion in history when he defeated Trevor Berbick in 1986.

He went on to make nine defences of his heavyweight crown, picking up the undisputed championship along the way with wins against Larry Holmes, Michael Spinks and Frank Bruno.

Holmes, who was known as ‘The Easton Assassin’ was beaten by Tyson in January 1988, suffering a fourth round knockout defeat at the hands of the fearsome younger man.

Speaking to Sky Sports Boxing, Holmes gave his prediction for a fantasy showdown between Tyson and Foreman, as he claimed ‘Iron’ Mike would not have been as successful during that golden heavyweight era.

“I ain’t knocking Mike Tyson, but no.. George Forman would win in two seconds, he hit too hard.

Anybody come at George Foreman you got to box like I did, or Ali did, you can’t stay there and take those punches. They take your head off. Bam, bam, it’s like the kitchen sink he’s hitting you with.”

‘Iron’ Mike made a sensational return to boxing last November, losing to YouTube sensation turned professional boxer Jake Paul over eight rounds at the AT&T Stadium in Texas.