Lennox Lewis, Evander Holyfield and Wladimir Klitschko are four of the most recognisable names in heavyweight boxing history – and Ray Mercer faced them all.
Florida-born Mercer was known for his powerful punching and resilience in the ring. He first rose to prominence after stopping all four of his opponents on his way to winning a gold medal in the heavyweight division at the 1988 Seoul Olympics.
He turned professional shortly after and picked up his first honours, the WBO heavyweight title, in 1991 before going on to have famous fights against legends of the sport like Lewis in 1996 and Holyfield in 1995, both of whom beat him on points. Seven years later in 2002, Klitschko became the first man to stop Mercer inside the distance to keep hold of his old WBO belt.
Though he never unified the division, ‘Merciless’ was respected for his grit, knockout ability and longevity in a career that spanned nearly two decades.
Speaking to The Ring Magazine, Mercer revealed who was the best he ever faced and went with the former undisputed king, Lewis.
“He’s a big guy, he was a great champion, he’s a strong guy, he had one of the best trainers in the world in Emanuel Steward, that’s half the battle. Emanuel Steward could get Lennox Lewis to fight the fight Emanuel wants him to fight. [Lewis] is one of the best of our generation.”
Mercer ended his career with a ledger of 44 fights, 36 wins, 26 of which came by knockout and seven losses. His last boxing match was in 2008 before he transitioned and had a few successful years in MMA.
