Possessing one of the best left jabs in the sports history, Larry Holmes made his mark during one of heavyweight boxing’s greatest eras.
‘The Easton Assassin’ reigned as the world heavyweight champion for a seven year period between 1978 and 1985, making no less than 20 consecutive defences of his crown during this time.
Holmes racked up victories over an abundance of legendary heavyweights, including the likes of Tim Witherspoon, Trevor Berbick and ‘The Greatest’ – Muhammad Ali.
He was eventually dethroned of his heavyweight championship in September of 1985 however, falling short to countryman Michael Spinks in a bruising 15-round battle at the Riviera in Nevada.
Another highly-rated heavyweight that was beaten by Holmes was former WBC heavyweight champion Ken Norton, who lost his title to ‘The Easton Assassin’ when they clashed back in 1978.
Despite feeling the strength of Holmes first hand, Norton made a surprising admission in a resurfaced interview with ESPN Radio that he felt Muhammad Ali was actually stronger, having shared the ring with both men during his own career.
“Oh Ali definitely, Ali was very strong but because he wasn’t a one punch KO artist it is overlooked. Hitting Ali in the body or on the arms was like hitting a piece of cement.”
Ali’s outstanding legacy speaks for itself. The late, great three-time world heavyweight champion is considered to be not only the greatest heavyweight of all time, but the best fighter to have ever laced up a pair of gloves.
Ali changed the landscape of the sport in more ways than one, proving himself to be an influential figure for generation after generation of young fighters.
