Larry Holmes Biography

Larry Holmes is widely regarded as one of the greatest heavyweight boxers in history. He held the WBC heavyweight title from 1978 to 1983 and the Ring magazine and lineal titles from 1980 to 1985. His undefeated streak included wins over Ken Norton, Muhammad Ali, and Mike Weaver, with 48 consecutive victories. He came within one win of matching Rocky Marciano's 49–0 record after losing to Michael Spinks in 1985. Holmes attempted four comebacks, facing Mike Tyson in 1988, Evander Holyfield in 1992, Oliver McCall in 1995, and Brian Nielsen in 1997. He retired after a 2002 bout at age 52, ending his career with 69 wins and 6 losses, all defeats occurring in world title fights. The only blemish on his record came on July 22, 1972, when Wells knocked him down twice before the referee stopped the fight.