Special feature: Greatest heavyweights of the modern era

Boxing Junkie presents in this special feature its list of the 10 greatest heavyweights of the modern era.

  1. LARRY HOLMES
    Years active: 1973-2002
    Record: 69-6 (44 KOs)
    Championship reign(s): 1978-85
    Biggest victories: Earnie Shavers (twice), Ken Norton, Mike Weaver (twice), Muhammad Ali, Gerry Cooney, Ray Mercer
    Biggest losses: Michael Spinks (twice), Mike Tyson, Evader Holyfield
    Background: Holmes was loaded with talent but also had bad timing. He was never destined to receive the recognition he deserved because he followed arguably the greatest heavyweight ever and cultural icon, former sparring partner Muhammad Ali. Holmes relied on one of the greatest jabs in history, refined skills and off-the-charts ring acumen to rule the division for more than seven years and 19 successful title defenses. The 19 defenses rank No. 3 all-time among heavyweights behind Joe Louis (25) and Wladimir Klitschko (23). Holmes outpointed Ken Norton in a thrilling war to win the title in 1978 and defended, among others, Earnie Shavers, Muhammad Ali, Gerry Cooney and Tim Witherspoon. He was 48-0 and attempting to equal Rocky Marciano’s mark of 49-0 when he lost his title to former light heavyweight champ Michael Spinks in 1985. Holmes never held a title again but was competitive for another decade or more. Casual fans might not understand how good Holmes was but the experts do.

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