Sporting icons : Larry Holmes - Heavyweight boxing legend , Career HLs , video

 

Larry Holmes born 3rd November 1949 and an American , famously known as "The Easton Assassin," is one of boxing's most legendary heavyweights, celebrated for his impeccable jab, resilience, and ring intelligence. Holmes held the heavyweight championship from 1978 to 1985, establishing himself as one of the best in a deeply competitive era of heavyweight boxing. His technical skills, durability, and perseverance allowed him to compete successfully well beyond his prime, creating an enduring legacy in the sport.

Style of Play

Exceptional Jab: Holmes’ left jab is regarded as one of the best in boxing history, used to control the pace of the fight and keep opponents at bay.

Defensive Mastery: Holmes was known for his defensive prowess, maintaining excellent distance and countering effectively.

Endurance and Heart: Holmes possessed remarkable endurance, which allowed him to take hits while staying composed and pushing through intense bouts.

Career Highlights

Rise to Championship

Holmes’ professional career began in 1973 after serving as a sparring partner for icons like Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier. His breakthrough came in 1978 when he won the WBC heavyweight title in a grueling 15-round fight against Ken Norton, widely regarded as one of the greatest heavyweight bouts.

Heavyweight Title Reign (1978–1985)

Holmes dominated the heavyweight division for nearly seven years, defending his title an impressive 20 times. His significant victories during this period included:

Muhammad Ali (1980): Holmes defeated Ali in a highly anticipated match, delivering a clinical performance to retain his title.

Gerry Cooney (1982): Holmes successfully defended his title in a high-stakes bout, overcoming Cooney’s power and achieving a TKO in the 13th round.

Earnie Shavers (1979): Holmes fought Shavers in a brutal encounter, withstanding Shavers’ legendary power to ultimately win by TKO in the 11th round.

Holmes’s reign included victories over notable heavyweights like Trevor Berbick, Tim Witherspoon, and James "Bonecrusher" Smith, underscoring his dominance over multiple generations of challengers.

Career Highlights and Challenges

1985 Loss to Michael Spinks: Holmes lost his title to Michael Spinks in a close decision, ending his undefeated streak at 48–0, just one win short of Rocky Marciano's record. This match marked a turning point in his career.

Comebacks: Holmes made multiple comebacks, including an impressive performance against a young Ray Mercer in 1992 and a courageous battle with Evander Holyfield in 1992. Although he never recaptured his former championship, Holmes’s determination earned him respect and admiration from fans and boxers alike.

Notable Bouts

1. Larry Holmes vs. Ken Norton (1978): Holmes won a split decision after 15 rounds of relentless back-and-forth action, capturing the WBC heavyweight title.

2. Larry Holmes vs. Gerry Cooney (1982): Holmes’s triumph in this racially charged bout solidified his place as a dominant champion and showcased his mental toughness.

3. Larry Holmes vs. Muhammad Ali (1980): Although controversial for Ali’s condition, Holmes’s victory demonstrated his tactical skill and respect for his former mentor.

Accolades and Records

World Heavyweight Champion: 1978–1985

20 Successful Title Defenses: A record surpassed only by Joe Louis

Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame: 2008

Ring Magazine Fighter of the Year: 1982

Legacy

Larry Holmes’s career is defined by his technical skill, tenacity, and unmatched jab, which remains a benchmark in boxing. Known for his sportsmanship and respect within the ring, Holmes has inspired countless boxers and is celebrated for competing at the highest level across different eras. His longevity and resilience left a profound mark on boxing, and his accomplishments continue to be a reference point for heavyweight champions. "The Easton Assassin" remains a beloved figure in the boxing community, his name forever linked with greatness in the sport.

In the below video watch highlights of Holmes victorious fight vs Mohammed Ali in 1980