Tag: David Haye

5 greatest cruiserweights-turned-heavyweights: Where does Oleksandr Usyk fit in?

Boxing Junkie gives you the five greatest cruiserweights-turned-heavyweights. Where does Oleksandr Usyk fit in?

Oleksandr Usyk went from a cruiserweight champion to a legend overnight.

Back-to-back decisions over one of the era’s top heavyweights, two-time champion Anthony Joshua, will have that kind of impact on a fighter’s legacy. The 36-year-old Ukrainian became a first-ballot Hall of Famer by winning those fights if he wasn’t before.

But where does Usyk rank among the best cruiserweights-turned-heavyweights?

We gave that a great deal thought as he prepares to defend his titles against Daniel Dubois on Saturday night in Wroclaw, Poland (ESPN+), and came up with a list.

Our Top 5 is below.

Note: Roy Jones Jr. isn’t included here because he jumped over cruiserweight – from light heavyweight to heavyweight –when he outpointed John Ruiz to win the title in 2003.

Also, the cruiserweight limit was changed from 190 pounds to 200 in 2003. The heavyweight records included here reflect any bout in which the fighter was over the cruiserweight limit at the time.

NO. 5 TOMASZ ADAMEK

Years active: 1999-2018
Overall record: 53-6 (32 KOs)
Heavyweight record: 16-5 (6 KOs)
Heavyweight titles: None
Height: 6-1½
Background: Adamek, a skillful, rugged Pole, won major titles at light heavyweight and cruiserweight before trying his luck at heavyweight. He lost only once at the lower weights (a unanimous decision against talented Chad Dawson), which gives you an idea of his ability. He fell short in his only heavyweight title fight to gigantic Hall of Famer Vitali Klitschko by a 10th-round knockout but he had victories over a number notable big men, including countryman Andrew Golota, Chris Arreola, Michael Grant, Eddie Chambers and Steve Cunningham. He faded down the stretch of his career, an indication that he hung on too long. Still, he’ll be remembered as an excellent 175- and 200-pounder who held his own against naturally bigger men in the sport’s glamour division.

NO. 4 JAMES TONEY

Years active: 1988-2017
Overall record: 77-10-3 (47 KOs)
Heavyweight record: 20-5-1 (11 KOs)
Heavyweight titles: None
Height: 5-10
Background: Toney was one of the most skillful boxers of all time. He was a major player in the middleweight, super middleweight, light heavyweight, cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions, putting him in a similar class with fellow Hall of Famers Bob Fitzsimmons and Roy Jones Jr. He won titles at 160, 168 and 190-200 before becoming a full-fledged heavyweight. He actually won a major heavyweight title fight, outpointing then-champion John Ruiz in 2005. However, the result was changed to no-contest after Toney tested positive for a banned substance. Still, he had a long career at heavyweight that included a knockout victory over Evander Holyfield in 2003, making him one of only two men (with Riddick Bowe) to stop the great Hall of Famer. His off-the-charts boxing acumen made him a difficult foe for anyone at any weight.

NO. 3 DAVID HAYE

Years active: 2002-18
Overall record: 28-4 (26 KOs)
Heavyweight record: 10-3 (9 KOs)
Heavyweight titles: WBA (2009-11)
Height: 6-3
Background: The tall, but lean Briton was a good, athletic boxer with explosive knockout power, which made him almost untouchable as a cruiserweight. He slipped up only against veteran Carl Thompson early in his career and went on to win three major titles before making the move to heavyweight. He was undersized in the sport’s heaviest division but he carried his power to the top, as his knockout ratio indicates. He became the second former cruiserweight to win a heavyweight title when he defeated Russian giant Nikolai Valuev by a majority decision in 2009 and successfully defended against veteran John Ruiz and Audley Harrison the following year. He fell flat in his next fight, a one-sided decision loss to champion Wladimir Klitschko in which he appeared to be out of his element. He rebounded to stop Derek Chisora but had no significant victories after that.

NO. 2 OLEKSANDR USYK

Years active: 2013-present
Overall record: 20-0 (13 KOs)
Heavyweight record: 4-0 (1 KO)
Heavyweight titles: IBF, WBA and WBO (2021-present)
Height: 6-3
Background: The boxing savant from Ukraine has accomplished a great deal in only 20 fights, winning major belts in two divisions, going 9-0 in title fights and becoming a pound-for-pound mainstay. He was untouchable as a cruiserweight, the only exception being a close decision over Mairis Briedis in 2018. He moved up to heavyweight the following year, stopping Chazz Witherspoon in seven rounds and outpointing Derek Chisora. Then he made history, outboxing champion Anthony Joshua to win a clear decision and three major titles in 2021 and winning a split decision in the rematch 11 months later. His biggest challenge probably lies ahead – a meeting with fellow beltholder Tyson Fury for the undisputed championship – but he’ll be remembered as one of the most remarkable fighters of his generation regardless of what the future holds.

NO. 1 EVANDER HOLYFIELD

Years active: 1984-2011
Overall record: 44-10-2 (29 KOs)
Heavyweight record: 26-10-2 (15 KOs)
Heavyweight titles: IBF, WBA and WBC (1990-92); IBF and WBA (1993-94); WBA (1996-99); IBF (1997-99); WBA (2000-01)
Height: 6-2½
Background: Holyfield is one of the greatest fighters of all time pound-for-pound and arguably one of the best heavyweights in spite of his naturally small frame. The masterful boxer-puncher was a dominating cruiserweight when the weight limit was 190, going 18-0 (14 KOs) and reigning as champion from 1986 to 1988. He fought the next 23 years as a heavyweight. Most notably he became the only man to reign as a major titleholder four times, breaking Muhammad Ali’s record of three reigns. His greatest victories probably came against Buster Douglas (to win the championship), Riddick Bowe (in one of three fights) and Mike Tyson (twice) but his list of quality victories is too long to include here. He struggled against particularly big opponents who could also box – Bowe and Lennox Lewis – and fought far too long but all of those who saw him fight in his prime will always marvel at his all-around ability and breathtaking fighting spirit.

[lawrence-related id=38620,38604,38593]

5 greatest cruiserweights-turned-heavyweights: Where does Oleksandr Usyk fit in?

Boxing Junkie gives you the five greatest cruiserweights-turned-heavyweights. Where does Oleksandr Usyk fit in?

Oleksandr Usyk went from a cruiserweight champion to a legend overnight.

Back-to-back decisions over one of the era’s top heavyweights, two-time champion Anthony Joshua, will have that kind of impact on a fighter’s legacy. The 36-year-old Ukrainian became a first-ballot Hall of Famer by winning those fights if he wasn’t before.

But where does Usyk rank among the best cruiserweights-turned-heavyweights?

We gave that a great deal thought as he prepares to defend his titles against Daniel Dubois on Saturday night in Wroclaw, Poland (ESPN+), and came up with a list.

Our Top 5 is below.

Note: Roy Jones Jr. isn’t included here because he jumped over cruiserweight – from light heavyweight to heavyweight –when he outpointed John Ruiz to win the title in 2003.

Also, the cruiserweight limit was changed from 190 pounds to 200 in 2003. The heavyweight records included here reflect any bout in which the fighter was over the cruiserweight limit at the time.

NO. 5 TOMASZ ADAMEK

Years active: 1999-2018
Overall record: 53-6 (32 KOs)
Heavyweight record: 16-5 (6 KOs)
Heavyweight titles: None
Height: 6-1½
Background: Adamek, a skillful, rugged Pole, won major titles at light heavyweight and cruiserweight before trying his luck at heavyweight. He lost only once at the lower weights (a unanimous decision against talented Chad Dawson), which gives you an idea of his ability. He fell short in his only heavyweight title fight to gigantic Hall of Famer Vitali Klitschko by a 10th-round knockout but he had victories over a number notable big men, including countryman Andrew Golota, Chris Arreola, Michael Grant, Eddie Chambers and Steve Cunningham. He faded down the stretch of his career, an indication that he hung on too long. Still, he’ll be remembered as an excellent 175- and 200-pounder who held his own against naturally bigger men in the sport’s glamour division.

NO. 4 JAMES TONEY

Years active: 1988-2017
Overall record: 77-10-3 (47 KOs)
Heavyweight record: 20-5-1 (11 KOs)
Heavyweight titles: None
Height: 5-10
Background: Toney was one of the most skillful boxers of all time. He was a major player in the middleweight, super middleweight, light heavyweight, cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions, putting him in a similar class with fellow Hall of Famers Bob Fitzsimmons and Roy Jones Jr. He won titles at 160, 168 and 190-200 before becoming a full-fledged heavyweight. He actually won a major heavyweight title fight, outpointing then-champion John Ruiz in 2005. However, the result was changed to no-contest after Toney tested positive for a banned substance. Still, he had a long career at heavyweight that included a knockout victory over Evander Holyfield in 2003, making him one of only two men (with Riddick Bowe) to stop the great Hall of Famer. His off-the-charts boxing acumen made him a difficult foe for anyone at any weight.

NO. 3 DAVID HAYE

Years active: 2002-18
Overall record: 28-4 (26 KOs)
Heavyweight record: 10-3 (9 KOs)
Heavyweight titles: WBA (2009-11)
Height: 6-3
Background: The tall, but lean Briton was a good, athletic boxer with explosive knockout power, which made him almost untouchable as a cruiserweight. He slipped up only against veteran Carl Thompson early in his career and went on to win three major titles before making the move to heavyweight. He was undersized in the sport’s heaviest division but he carried his power to the top, as his knockout ratio indicates. He became the second former cruiserweight to win a heavyweight title when he defeated Russian giant Nikolai Valuev by a majority decision in 2009 and successfully defended against veteran John Ruiz and Audley Harrison the following year. He fell flat in his next fight, a one-sided decision loss to champion Wladimir Klitschko in which he appeared to be out of his element. He rebounded to stop Derek Chisora but had no significant victories after that.

NO. 2 OLEKSANDR USYK

Years active: 2013-present
Overall record: 20-0 (13 KOs)
Heavyweight record: 4-0 (1 KO)
Heavyweight titles: IBF, WBA and WBO (2021-present)
Height: 6-3
Background: The boxing savant from Ukraine has accomplished a great deal in only 20 fights, winning major belts in two divisions, going 9-0 in title fights and becoming a pound-for-pound mainstay. He was untouchable as a cruiserweight, the only exception being a close decision over Mairis Briedis in 2018. He moved up to heavyweight the following year, stopping Chazz Witherspoon in seven rounds and outpointing Derek Chisora. Then he made history, outboxing champion Anthony Joshua to win a clear decision and three major titles in 2021 and winning a split decision in the rematch 11 months later. His biggest challenge probably lies ahead – a meeting with fellow beltholder Tyson Fury for the undisputed championship – but he’ll be remembered as one of the most remarkable fighters of his generation regardless of what the future holds.

NO. 1 EVANDER HOLYFIELD

Years active: 1984-2011
Overall record: 44-10-2 (29 KOs)
Heavyweight record: 26-10-2 (15 KOs)
Heavyweight titles: IBF, WBA and WBC (1990-92); IBF and WBA (1993-94); WBA (1996-99); IBF (1997-99); WBA (2000-01)
Height: 6-2½
Background: Holyfield is one of the greatest fighters of all time pound-for-pound and arguably one of the best heavyweights in spite of his naturally small frame. The masterful boxer-puncher was a dominating cruiserweight when the weight limit was 190, going 18-0 (14 KOs) and reigning as champion from 1986 to 1988. He fought the next 23 years as a heavyweight. Most notably he became the only man to reign as a major titleholder four times, breaking Muhammad Ali’s record of three reigns. His greatest victories probably came against Buster Douglas (to win the championship), Riddick Bowe (in one of three fights) and Mike Tyson (twice) but his list of quality victories is too long to include here. He struggled against particularly big opponents who could also box – Bowe and Lennox Lewis – and fought far too long but all of those who saw him fight in his prime will always marvel at his all-around ability and breathtaking fighting spirit.

[lawrence-related id=38620,38604,38593]

Joshua vs. Usyk: 3 cruiserweights who succeeded at heavyweight … 3 who didn’t

Anthony Joshua vs. Oleksandr Usyk: 3 cruiserweights who succeeded at heavyweight … 3 who didn’t.

Editor’s note: This article was originally published before his unanimous-decision victory over Derek Chisora last October.

***

Oleksandr Usyk isn’t breaking new ground by transitioning from a successful career at cruiserweight to heavyweight. Many have done it. A few have succeeded, most haven’t.

The obvious disadvantage for a natural cruiserweight is the weight he gives away to big heavyweights. For example, Derek Chisora, Usyk’s opponent on Saturday in London, weighed in Friday 38.5 pounds heavier than Usyk (255.5 to 217).

That’s a significant difference, one that only a special fighter can overcome. And remember: Usyk’s goal is to fight Anthony Joshua or Tyson Fury one day. We’ll see how that works out.

Usyk (17-0, 13 KOs) stopped Chazz Witherspoon in seven rounds in his heavyweight debut in October of last year. So far good. But Chisora (32-9, 23 KOs) is expected to be a better gauge of how effective Usyk can be against the biggest men in the sport.

Here are three cruiserweights-turned-heavyweights who succeeded in the higher division and three who didn’t.

SUCCEEDED

EVANDER HOLYFIELD

Evander Holyfield (right) defeated Mike Tyson twice. John Gurzinsky / AFP via Getty Images

Record: 44-10-2 (29 KOs)
Titles at cruiserweight: Three (one reign)
Titles at heavyweight: Eight (four reigns)
Notable victories at heavyweight: Buster Douglas, George Foreman, Larry Holmes, Riddick Bowe, Ray Mercer, Mike Tyson (twice), Michael Moorer
Background: Holyfield is arguably the best cruiserweight ever and one of the greatest heavyweights. “The Real Deal” was at a size disadvantage in many of his heavyweight fights but was a four-time titleholder, beating a string of big-name opponents along the way. He won his first 10 fights at heavyweight, including a knockout of Buster Douglas in 1990 to become champion in Douglas’ first fight after his upset of Mike Tyson. Then Holyfield had his first encounter with a prime behemoth, Riddick Bowe. Holyfield and Bowe engaged in one of the great three-fight series but Bowe emerged victorious twice. Holyfield then picked on someone his own size. In one of boxing’s greatest upsets, he stopped Mike Tyson to regain a belt in 1996 and then lost a portion of his ear in the rematch. He had his ups and downs after that but was always competitive and delivered exciting fights. He almost won a title for a fifth time in 2008, when he was 46, but lost a majority decision to giant Nikolai Valuev. He fought three more times and retired.

DAVID HAYE

Overall record: 28-4 (26 KOs)
Titles at cruiserweight: One (one reign)
Titles at heavyweight: One (one reign)
Notable victories at heavyweight: Monte Barrett, Nikolai Valuev, John Ruiz, Derek Chisora
Background: Haye was the king of the cruiserweight division in the 2000s, becoming undisputed champion and losing only to Carl Thompson by a stunning fifth-round knockout in 2004. “Hayemaker” made his debut as a full-fledged heavyweight in November 2008, when he stopped Monte Barrett in five rounds. In his next fight, a year later, he defeated Valuev by a majority decision to win one of the four major titles. He successfully defended against John Ruiz and Audley Harrison but then reached a little too high in an attempt to unify titles. A prime Wladimir Klitschko made Haye look like an undersized journeyman in July 2011, winning a wide decision in a fight that wasn’t remotely competitive. Haye blamed a toe injury afterward, making things worse for him. Haye wasn’t a great heavyweight by any stretch but he was good enough to win a major title and make two successful defenses. That’s a success.

TOMASZ ADAMEK

Overall record: 53-6 (31 KOs)
Titles at cruiserweight: One (one reign)
Titles at heavyweight: None
Notable victories at heavyweight: Andrew Golota, Chris Arreola, Michael Grant, Eddie Chambers, Steve Cunningham
Background: Adamek had a remarkable career overall. The tough, well-schooled Pole won his first 31 fights and captured titles at both light heavyweight and cruiserweight before trying his hand against the biggest boys. He started his heavyweight career with a knockout of countryman Andrew Golota and reeled off five more victories to earn a shot at then-champion Vitali Klitschko in 2011. That’s where things started to go south. Adamek demonstrated the grit for which he was known but ultimately was overwhelmed by a much bigger, better man. Klitschko won every round and scored a 10th-round knockout. Adamek had mixed success after that – including a five-fight winning streak – but never again fought for a world title. He retired in 2018. Why is he filed under “successful” here? Because he beat some good opponents and earned his shot at a title. Adamek was a solid heavyweight.

***

UNSUCCESSFUL

JAMES TONEY

James Toney (right) had his best night as a heavyweight against Holyfield. AP Photo / Eric Jamison

Overall record: 77-10-3 (47 KOs)
Titles at cruiserweight: One (one reign)
Titles at heavyweight: None
Notable victories at heavyweight: Evander Holyfield, Fres Oquendo
Background: Toney could’ve been classified as “successful” here if he hadn’t failed a drug test and a few other things had gone his way. “Lights Out” is generally considered one of the most-gifted boxers of his generation even though he had issues with discipline. He won titles at middleweight, super middleweight and cruiserweight. Toney had a so-so experience in heavyweight waters but emerged with one impressive victory, a ninth-round stoppage of 40-year-old Evander Holyfield in 2003.  And, in 2005, he defeated John Ruiz by a unanimous decision to win a major heavyweight title. However, days later, he tested positive for a steroid, the fight was ruled no-contest and Ruiz was reinstated as champion. Toney had mixed results after that – including a one-fight return to cruiserweight in which he lost to Denis Lebedev in 2011 – and never again fought for a meaningful heavyweight belt. Toney will be remembered as a great fighter but that has little to do with his years as a heavyweight.

DWIGHT MUHAMMAD QAWI

Overall record: 41-11-1 (25 KOs)
Titles at cruiserweight: One (one reign)
Titles at heavyweight: None
Notable victories at heavyweight: None
Background: Qawi, whose whirling-dervish style was reminiscent of Joe Frazer, was a beast at light heavyweight and cruiserweight. He beat a string of quality opponents and most notably gave Holyfield absolute hell in a classic 1986 cruiserweight fight before losing a split decision, all of which earned him a place in the International Boxing Hall of Fame. At heavyweight? Things didn’t go so well for the 5-foot-7 banger from New Jersey. Qawi’s first serious foray into the sport’s heaviest division was against George Forman in 1988 and he was stopped in seven rounds. He went back to fighting smaller men after that, with moderate success, before retiring in 1992. However, he couldn’t stay away. He returned once more as a heavyweight at 44 years old, beat two journeyman, lost to one (Tony LaRosa) and then walked away for good. Qawi (originally Dwight Braxton) is remembered as a fine light heavyweight and cruiserweight who was just too small to make it at heavyweight.

CARLOS DE LEON

Overall record: 53-8-1 (33 KOs)
Titles at cruiserweight: Four (four reigns)
Titles at heavyweight: None
Notable victories at heavyweight: None
Background: People might forget how good De Leon was at cruiserweight in the 1980s, although he had his ups and downs. The Puerto Rican had four reigns as WBC cruiserweight champ, meaning he lost his belt three times – including once by knockout against Evander Holyfield — but he had the resilience and determination to regain it three times before losing it for good. He had victories over Marvin Camel (twice), Leon Spinks and Yaqui Lopez, and he drew with Johnny Nelson. He was on a win streak at cruiserweight in 1994 when he decided to move up to move up to heavyweight. He failed. He was stopped by Corrie Sanders in only 49 seconds in his heavyweight debut and lasted less than three rounds against Brian Nielsen three months later. He never fought again after that. De Leon died at 60 this past January.

[lawrence-related id=15154,15059,9758]

Joshua vs. Usyk: 3 cruiserweights who succeeded at heavyweight … 3 who didn’t

Anthony Joshua vs. Oleksandr Usyk: 3 cruiserweights who succeeded at heavyweight … 3 who didn’t.

Editor’s note: This article was originally published before his unanimous-decision victory over Derek Chisora last October.

***

Oleksandr Usyk isn’t breaking new ground by transitioning from a successful career at cruiserweight to heavyweight. Many have done it. A few have succeeded, most haven’t.

The obvious disadvantage for a natural cruiserweight is the weight he gives away to big heavyweights. For example, Derek Chisora, Usyk’s opponent on Saturday in London, weighed in Friday 38.5 pounds heavier than Usyk (255.5 to 217).

That’s a significant difference, one that only a special fighter can overcome. And remember: Usyk’s goal is to fight Anthony Joshua or Tyson Fury one day. We’ll see how that works out.

Usyk (17-0, 13 KOs) stopped Chazz Witherspoon in seven rounds in his heavyweight debut in October of last year. So far good. But Chisora (32-9, 23 KOs) is expected to be a better gauge of how effective Usyk can be against the biggest men in the sport.

Here are three cruiserweights-turned-heavyweights who succeeded in the higher division and three who didn’t.

SUCCEEDED

EVANDER HOLYFIELD

Evander Holyfield (right) defeated Mike Tyson twice. John Gurzinsky / AFP via Getty Images

Record: 44-10-2 (29 KOs)
Titles at cruiserweight: Three (one reign)
Titles at heavyweight: Eight (four reigns)
Notable victories at heavyweight: Buster Douglas, George Foreman, Larry Holmes, Riddick Bowe, Ray Mercer, Mike Tyson (twice), Michael Moorer
Background: Holyfield is arguably the best cruiserweight ever and one of the greatest heavyweights. “The Real Deal” was at a size disadvantage in many of his heavyweight fights but was a four-time titleholder, beating a string of big-name opponents along the way. He won his first 10 fights at heavyweight, including a knockout of Buster Douglas in 1990 to become champion in Douglas’ first fight after his upset of Mike Tyson. Then Holyfield had his first encounter with a prime behemoth, Riddick Bowe. Holyfield and Bowe engaged in one of the great three-fight series but Bowe emerged victorious twice. Holyfield then picked on someone his own size. In one of boxing’s greatest upsets, he stopped Mike Tyson to regain a belt in 1996 and then lost a portion of his ear in the rematch. He had his ups and downs after that but was always competitive and delivered exciting fights. He almost won a title for a fifth time in 2008, when he was 46, but lost a majority decision to giant Nikolai Valuev. He fought three more times and retired.

DAVID HAYE

Overall record: 28-4 (26 KOs)
Titles at cruiserweight: One (one reign)
Titles at heavyweight: One (one reign)
Notable victories at heavyweight: Monte Barrett, Nikolai Valuev, John Ruiz, Derek Chisora
Background: Haye was the king of the cruiserweight division in the 2000s, becoming undisputed champion and losing only to Carl Thompson by a stunning fifth-round knockout in 2004. “Hayemaker” made his debut as a full-fledged heavyweight in November 2008, when he stopped Monte Barrett in five rounds. In his next fight, a year later, he defeated Valuev by a majority decision to win one of the four major titles. He successfully defended against John Ruiz and Audley Harrison but then reached a little too high in an attempt to unify titles. A prime Wladimir Klitschko made Haye look like an undersized journeyman in July 2011, winning a wide decision in a fight that wasn’t remotely competitive. Haye blamed a toe injury afterward, making things worse for him. Haye wasn’t a great heavyweight by any stretch but he was good enough to win a major title and make two successful defenses. That’s a success.

TOMASZ ADAMEK

Overall record: 53-6 (31 KOs)
Titles at cruiserweight: One (one reign)
Titles at heavyweight: None
Notable victories at heavyweight: Andrew Golota, Chris Arreola, Michael Grant, Eddie Chambers, Steve Cunningham
Background: Adamek had a remarkable career overall. The tough, well-schooled Pole won his first 31 fights and captured titles at both light heavyweight and cruiserweight before trying his hand against the biggest boys. He started his heavyweight career with a knockout of countryman Andrew Golota and reeled off five more victories to earn a shot at then-champion Vitali Klitschko in 2011. That’s where things started to go south. Adamek demonstrated the grit for which he was known but ultimately was overwhelmed by a much bigger, better man. Klitschko won every round and scored a 10th-round knockout. Adamek had mixed success after that – including a five-fight winning streak – but never again fought for a world title. He retired in 2018. Why is he filed under “successful” here? Because he beat some good opponents and earned his shot at a title. Adamek was a solid heavyweight.

***

UNSUCCESSFUL

JAMES TONEY

James Toney (right) had his best night as a heavyweight against Holyfield. AP Photo / Eric Jamison

Overall record: 77-10-3 (47 KOs)
Titles at cruiserweight: One (one reign)
Titles at heavyweight: None
Notable victories at heavyweight: Evander Holyfield, Fres Oquendo
Background: Toney could’ve been classified as “successful” here if he hadn’t failed a drug test and a few other things had gone his way. “Lights Out” is generally considered one of the most-gifted boxers of his generation even though he had issues with discipline. He won titles at middleweight, super middleweight and cruiserweight. Toney had a so-so experience in heavyweight waters but emerged with one impressive victory, a ninth-round stoppage of 40-year-old Evander Holyfield in 2003.  And, in 2005, he defeated John Ruiz by a unanimous decision to win a major heavyweight title. However, days later, he tested positive for a steroid, the fight was ruled no-contest and Ruiz was reinstated as champion. Toney had mixed results after that – including a one-fight return to cruiserweight in which he lost to Denis Lebedev in 2011 – and never again fought for a meaningful heavyweight belt. Toney will be remembered as a great fighter but that has little to do with his years as a heavyweight.

DWIGHT MUHAMMAD QAWI

Overall record: 41-11-1 (25 KOs)
Titles at cruiserweight: One (one reign)
Titles at heavyweight: None
Notable victories at heavyweight: None
Background: Qawi, whose whirling-dervish style was reminiscent of Joe Frazer, was a beast at light heavyweight and cruiserweight. He beat a string of quality opponents and most notably gave Holyfield absolute hell in a classic 1986 cruiserweight fight before losing a split decision, all of which earned him a place in the International Boxing Hall of Fame. At heavyweight? Things didn’t go so well for the 5-foot-7 banger from New Jersey. Qawi’s first serious foray into the sport’s heaviest division was against George Forman in 1988 and he was stopped in seven rounds. He went back to fighting smaller men after that, with moderate success, before retiring in 1992. However, he couldn’t stay away. He returned once more as a heavyweight at 44 years old, beat two journeyman, lost to one (Tony LaRosa) and then walked away for good. Qawi (originally Dwight Braxton) is remembered as a fine light heavyweight and cruiserweight who was just too small to make it at heavyweight.

CARLOS DE LEON

Overall record: 53-8-1 (33 KOs)
Titles at cruiserweight: Four (four reigns)
Titles at heavyweight: None
Notable victories at heavyweight: None
Background: People might forget how good De Leon was at cruiserweight in the 1980s, although he had his ups and downs. The Puerto Rican had four reigns as WBC cruiserweight champ, meaning he lost his belt three times – including once by knockout against Evander Holyfield — but he had the resilience and determination to regain it three times before losing it for good. He had victories over Marvin Camel (twice), Leon Spinks and Yaqui Lopez, and he drew with Johnny Nelson. He was on a win streak at cruiserweight in 1994 when he decided to move up to move up to heavyweight. He failed. He was stopped by Corrie Sanders in only 49 seconds in his heavyweight debut and lasted less than three rounds against Brian Nielsen three months later. He never fought again after that. De Leon died at 60 this past January.

[lawrence-related id=15154,15059,9758]

Oleksandr Usyk vs. Derek Chisora confirmed for Oct. 31

Heavyweights Derek Chisora and Oleksandr Usyk will finally meet on Oct. 31 after their rescheduled fight was confirmed.

Editor’s note: This article was originally published on DAZN.com.

***

Heavyweights Derek Chisora and Oleksandr Usyk will finally meet on Oct. 31, it has been announced.

The fight was originally scheduled for May 23, but it was postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Usyk (17-0, 13 KOs), a former unified cruiserweight champion, began his career as a heavyweight with a seventh-round knockout victory over Chazz Witherspoon in October of last year.

Chisora (32-9, 23 KOs), a former world title challenger, beat David Price in four rounds the same month Usyk beat Witherspoon. Usyk isn’t underestimating his opponent.

“I have really missed boxing,” said Usyk. “I am working hard in my training camp to show a spectacular performance on October 31. I expect a real test in Derek. He is strong, tough and resilient. He is a really big guy and he hits hard.”

Usyk explained why he made the move to heavyweight.

“As a cruiserweight, I reached the highest heights as undisputed champion and now I am following the same path as a heavyweight,” he said. “I need to test myself against world class heavyweights on my new road to undisputed and Derek stands in front of me.

“Many people say that Derek is a monster, but deep down he is a kind man. I don’t expect to see that good side of him. I know that he wants to break me, but I am water, wind and fire all together. Derek Chisora, I am coming for you.”

Chisora is similarly keen on getting back into the ring.

“Usyk, I’ve been ready for you all year,” he said. “It’s my home turf and after such a tough year for everyone, I’m going to give the British public the Halloween party they deserve and finally get revenge for my boy Tony Bellew.” he said.

Said promoter Eddie Hearn: “Yesterday’s news from the government was a kick in the nuts, so to bounce back with this fight at this time is so important for boxing. You’ve either got to sit back and say it’s not possible or find a way to make it happen, and I’ve got to say a big thanks to Team Usyk, ‘Del Boy’ and [manager] David Haye for staying patient and helping get this over the line.

“It’s an absolute firecracker and a fight that’s so important to the heavyweight division over the next few months. We saw a stunning victory from Povetkin recently to shake up the mandatory situation, can ‘War’ Chisora spring the upset and KO the undefeated undisputed world champ?

“I know he will do everything he can to try and get the victory and this will be another night of heavyweight drama.”

[lawrence-related id=13466,13358,9758,8587]

Oleksandr Usyk vs. Derek Chisora confirmed for Oct. 31

Heavyweights Derek Chisora and Oleksandr Usyk will finally meet on Oct. 31 after their rescheduled fight was confirmed.

Editor’s note: This article was originally published on DAZN.com.

***

Heavyweights Derek Chisora and Oleksandr Usyk will finally meet on Oct. 31, it has been announced.

The fight was originally scheduled for May 23, but it was postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Usyk (17-0, 13 KOs), a former unified cruiserweight champion, began his career as a heavyweight with a seventh-round knockout victory over Chazz Witherspoon in October of last year.

Chisora (32-9, 23 KOs), a former world title challenger, beat David Price in four rounds the same month Usyk beat Witherspoon. Usyk isn’t underestimating his opponent.

“I have really missed boxing,” said Usyk. “I am working hard in my training camp to show a spectacular performance on October 31. I expect a real test in Derek. He is strong, tough and resilient. He is a really big guy and he hits hard.”

Usyk explained why he made the move to heavyweight.

“As a cruiserweight, I reached the highest heights as undisputed champion and now I am following the same path as a heavyweight,” he said. “I need to test myself against world class heavyweights on my new road to undisputed and Derek stands in front of me.

“Many people say that Derek is a monster, but deep down he is a kind man. I don’t expect to see that good side of him. I know that he wants to break me, but I am water, wind and fire all together. Derek Chisora, I am coming for you.”

Chisora is similarly keen on getting back into the ring.

“Usyk, I’ve been ready for you all year,” he said. “It’s my home turf and after such a tough year for everyone, I’m going to give the British public the Halloween party they deserve and finally get revenge for my boy Tony Bellew.” he said.

Said promoter Eddie Hearn: “Yesterday’s news from the government was a kick in the nuts, so to bounce back with this fight at this time is so important for boxing. You’ve either got to sit back and say it’s not possible or find a way to make it happen, and I’ve got to say a big thanks to Team Usyk, ‘Del Boy’ and [manager] David Haye for staying patient and helping get this over the line.

“It’s an absolute firecracker and a fight that’s so important to the heavyweight division over the next few months. We saw a stunning victory from Povetkin recently to shake up the mandatory situation, can ‘War’ Chisora spring the upset and KO the undefeated undisputed world champ?

“I know he will do everything he can to try and get the victory and this will be another night of heavyweight drama.”

[lawrence-related id=13466,13358,9758,8587]

Oleksandr Usyk to Derek Chisora: You can’t hit what you can’t see

Oleksandr Usyk says his boxing ability will allow him to overcome the aggression of Derek Chisora whenever the two heavyweights meet.

Derek Chisora’s plan is to keep relentless pressure on the smaller Oleksandr Usyk from the opening bell whenever the heavyweight contenders meet in the ring.

Usyk’s response to that? You can’t hit what you can’t see.

Usyk, the slick former undisputed cruiserweight champ from Ukraine, and the longtime heavyweight player from England were scheduled to fight in May and then again in July but their meeting was pushed back again because of the coronavirus pandemic.

No date is currently set. And word is that the fight might not take place unless spectators are allowed in arenas because of the magnitude of the matchup.

“Normally I face this kind of plan, every fight,” Usyk told Sky Sports. “If you want to hit the target, you need to see the target, because he can throw as much punches as you can, but you need to land them into the target.”

“… “Normally I face this kind of plan, every fight. If you want to hit the target, you need to see the target, because he can throw as much punches as you can, but you need to land them into the target.”

That doesn’t mean Usyk lacks respect for his rival. In fact, he once admired Chisora from afar.

“When I was an amateur,” he said, “I was watching his fights as a heavyweight, with [Vitali] Klitschko, David Haye, and I was thinking, ‘Wow, such great guys somewhere far away,’ and now I’m going to box one of those great guys myself.”

David Haye: Dereck Chisora working as hard as Oleksandr Usyk

David Haye said protege Dereck Chisora is “in a good place” in anticipation of his showdown with Oleksandr Usyk.

David Haye, the manager of  Dereck Chisora, took notice of a photo on Instagram purporting to show that Chisora’s up-coming opponent Oleksandr Usyk is bulking up during the coronavirus pandemic.

Haye responded by saying that his man also is working hard in anticipation of their showdown, which was scheduled for May 23 at O2 Arena in London but later postponed.

Chisora and his handlers reportedly are exploring the possibility of staging the fight in Saudi Arabia, which could lift its coronavirus restrictions as soon as July.

“Derek is in a good place,” Haye told talkSPORT. “The fight date he’s been working towards has been postponed and Usyk is in training and we can see from his social media that he is ticking over in the Ukraine.

“He’s ranked in every boxing expert’s Top 5 pound-for-pound fighters, he’s an Olympic champion, he’s never ever lost a boxing match before, he was the undisputed cruiserweight champion. He’s the man, the most skilled smaller heavyweight out there.

“Derek Chisora has lost nine fights, many people think he’s passed his prime, but believe me he was having a run in training camp like I’ve never seen him before – the sparring, the physical side of things.

“He’s got on his discipline, he’s eating the right food, he’s sleeping the right times, he’s not doing all of the things he did in the past that culminated in him losing those nine fights. He shouldn’t have lost all of those fights. A lot of the time he wasn’t just in the best physical condition, the right mind-set, but he is now.

“I think Usyk has miscalculated how good Chisora is, he doesn’t realize how strong he is. He’s like a bull, he’s absolutely rock-solid, and he’s still training now. A lot of boxers would fly off the handle in this lockdown, they’d be on the beers, smashing Easter eggs, but he hasn’t. He’s been really on it, he’s been looking after himself.

“So when this thing dies down and he finally gets his opportunity, he beats Usyk and then he is then the No. 1 contender for Anthony Joshua, and that’s a dream come true for him.”

Degrees of Separation: Linking Lomachenko to Klitschko? We did it

Boxing Junkie managed to link Ukrainian legends Vasiliy Lomachenko and Wladimir Klitschko in spite of their weight disparity.

Six degrees of separation is a theory that everyone in the world is separated by no more than six social connections.

In other words, you know someone who knows someone who knows someone who knows someone who knows someone who knows Queen Elizabeth. Or so the concept goes.

We’re borrowing the six degrees concept – well, sort of loosely – to connect fighters from the past to their more contemporary counterparts in our new occasional feature, “Degrees of Separation.”

Example: Let’s connect Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. to Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. Super easy; we did it in two steps. Senior fought Grover Wiley, who fought Junior.

In this installment of the Boxing Junkie feature, we decided to challenge ourselves. We set out to link arguably the two greatest Ukrainian fighters of all time — current lightweight titleholder Vasiliy Lomachenko and retired heavyweight champ Wladimir Klitschko — without knowing whether it was possible.

Remember, Lomachenko started his career at 126 pounds and currently fights at 135. Klitschko fought at more than 240 pounds. We wondered whether it would be possible to find the opponents necessary to bridge that enormous gap.

Also, we didn’t have much to work with in Lomachenko’s case; he has had only 15 opponents.

How did it go? Very well, thank you. It turned out to be fairly easy to link the two countrymen. It took more steps than we would’ve liked — 10 — but we’ll take that given what seemed to be a difficult task at best.

Check it out:

Vasiliy Lomachenko fought …

Jorge Linares, who fought …

Antonio DeMarco, who fought …

Adrien Broner, who fought …

Manny Pacquiao, who fought …

Oscar De La Hoya, who fought …

Bernard Hopkins, who fought …

Roy Jones Jr., who fought …

John Ruiz, who fought …

David Haye, who fought …

Wladimir Klitschko

Could you do it in fewer steps? Let us know via Twitter or Facebook. Or you can contact me on Twitter. And please follow us!

Read more:

Degrees of separation: Connecting John L. Sullivan to Deontay Wilder

Degrees of Separation: Linking Filipino greats Flash Elorde, Manny Pacquiao

Degrees of Separation: Linking Japanese greats Fighting Harada and Naoya Inoue

Degrees of Separation: Linking Tyson Fury to first U.K.-born heavyweight champ

Degrees of Separation: Connecting Canelo Alvarez with Mexican legends

John Fury believes son Tyson Fury is unstoppable when he’s prepared

John Fury is so confident in his son that he was willing to bet David Haye $129,000 that Tyson Fury will beat Deontay Wilder on Feb. 22.

Do you think Tyson Fury’s father believes in him?

John Fury, a former professional boxer himself, has offered to bet David Haye £100,000 ($129,000) that his son will beat Deontay Wilder in their rematch Feb. 22 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

The elder Fury and Haye were discussing the fight on BT Sports’ “The Debate” when Fury, who suggested Wilder would crack under pressure this time, made the offer.

Haye didn’t bite.

“I don’t like to bet,” he said. “It’s not about betting. It’s about my opinion, and my opinion is Wilder won’t crack. He’s not the cracking type of guy. I’ve never seen anything in the ring when he’s fought, and I’ve never seen anything personality-wise.

“I’ve never seen anything in sparring that suggests that he cracks under pressure. Until I see a man crack, I give the man the benefit of the doubt. Tyson Fury proved that he didn’t crack last time out”

John Fury said his son, still rebuilding after his layoff, wasn’t physically prepared for the fight with Wilder. This time, he says, the fans will see a different fighter. And a different result.

“I know this time what my son is capable of doing,” he said. “… Give him the opportunity when he’s physically and mentally, he’s unstoppable, Tyson.”