Lennox Lewis has been retired for 20 years but remains a popular figure in the sport with plenty of opinions people are still keen to hear.
Lewis is undoubtedly one of the best heavyweights of his generation, and certainly in plenty of conversations about the best ever given what he achieved in the ring.
The so-called ‘pugilist specialist’ turned professional in 1989 having already represented Canada in two Olympic Games, the latter of which saw him pick up a super-heavyweight gold medal.
His first three years in the pro ranks saw him quickly pick up regional belts including the European, British, and Commonwealth titles. By 1992 he was the number one ranked fighter with the WBC and he was elevated to full champion after Riddick Bowe refused to fight him for the title.
He went on to beat the likes of Mike Tyson, Vitali Klitschko, Shanon Briggs and Evander Holyfield on his way to becoming the undisputed champion.
‘The Lion’ was known for his punching power and his masterful jab, both of which made him hard to beat and left him with a record of 41 wins out of 44 fights and one of the few men to retire from boxing having beaten every opponent he ever faced.
His respect for fellow legend of the sport Muhammad Ali is well known and in one post on X he said he was the best ever in response to a discussion of the American’s ability.
“You’re right. He’s not top 10… he’s number 1.”
You’re right. He’s not top 10… he’s number 1.
— Lennox Lewis, CBE, CM (@LennoxLewis) April 4, 2023
After winning gold at the 1960 Rome Olympics, Ali turned professional and beat the likes of George Foreman, Sonny Liston, Joe Frazier and Earnie Shavers in a 61-fight campaign. The undisputed heavyweight champion known to many as ‘The Greatest’ left his mark not just on the sport but on American history and culture.
