Larry Holmes Boxing Record: A Comprehensive Analysis Of His Legendary Career

Kallie Auer 17 Jun 2025

Larry Holmes, one of the greatest heavyweight boxers in history, has left an indelible mark on the sport with his remarkable boxing record and skills. As a fighter who reigned during the 1970s and 1980s, Holmes became synonymous with power, precision, and longevity in the ring. His career is a testament to his dedication and prowess as a heavyweight champion.

Known as "The Easton Assassin," Holmes quickly rose to prominence after turning professional in 1973. Over the years, he earned a reputation as one of the most dominant heavyweights of his era, defeating many top-tier opponents and holding the WBC Heavyweight Championship for an impressive seven years. His ability to maintain consistency and adaptability made him a force to be reckoned with.

This article delves into Larry Holmes' boxing record, exploring his achievements, notable fights, and the legacy he left behind. Whether you're a boxing enthusiast or simply curious about one of the sport's legends, this in-depth analysis will provide valuable insights into Holmes' illustrious career.

Biography and Early Life
Larry Holmes Boxing Record Overview
Notable Fights and Opponents
Championship Record and Achievements
Key Statistics and Metrics
Legacy in Boxing
Financial Impact and Endorsements
Retirement and Post-Retirement Life
Comparison with Other Heavyweights
Conclusion

Biography and Early Life

Larry Holmes: The Making of a Champion

Born on November 3, 1949, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Larry Holmes grew up in a modest household. From a young age, he displayed an interest in athletics, which eventually led him to boxing. Holmes began his amateur career in 1968, showcasing his talent and earning numerous accolades. By the time he turned professional in 1973, he had already established himself as a promising fighter with a bright future ahead.

Transition to Professional Boxing

Holmes' transition to professional boxing was seamless, thanks to his disciplined approach and natural talent. Under the guidance of trainer Angelo Dundee, Holmes refined his skills and developed into a formidable opponent. His early career was marked by a series of impressive victories, setting the stage for his eventual rise to the heavyweight championship.

Larry Holmes Boxing Record Overview

Larry Holmes' professional boxing record is nothing short of impressive. Over the course of his career, Holmes amassed a record of 69 wins, 6 losses, and 1 draw. His 44 knockouts further solidified his reputation as a powerful puncher. Holmes' ability to consistently perform at a high level earned him respect from fans and peers alike.

Key Highlights of Larry Holmes Boxing Record

Won the WBC Heavyweight Championship in 1980
Held the title for seven consecutive years
Defended his championship 20 times, a record that stood for decades
Named Fighter of the Year by The Ring Magazine in 1980

Notable Fights and Opponents

Iconic Battles That Defined His Career

Throughout his career, Holmes faced some of the most formidable opponents in boxing history. These matches not only tested his skills but also cemented his place among the greats. Below are some of the most notable fights in Larry Holmes' career:

Fight Against Muhammad Ali

One of Holmes' most famous fights was against Muhammad Ali in 1980. This highly anticipated bout saw Holmes emerge victorious, defeating Ali via a unanimous decision. The fight was a turning point in Holmes' career, as it marked his ascension to the heavyweight throne.

Rematch with Gerry Cooney

Holmes' rematch with Gerry Cooney in 1982 was another defining moment. Despite facing a tough opponent, Holmes managed to secure a knockout victory in the 13th round, further solidifying his dominance in the heavyweight division.

Championship Record and Achievements

Larry Holmes' championship record is one of the most celebrated in boxing history. Holding the WBC Heavyweight Championship for seven consecutive years, Holmes set a record for the most successful defenses of the title. His reign as champion was marked by consistency, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Achievements Beyond the Ring

Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1999
Ranked among the top 10 greatest heavyweights of all time by various publications
Recipient of numerous awards and honors throughout his career

Key Statistics and Metrics

Numbers often tell the story of a fighter's career, and Larry Holmes' statistics are a testament to his greatness. Below are some key metrics that highlight his achievements:

Win Percentage: 90.8%
Total Fights: 76
Wins by Knockout: 44 (64.3%)
Longest Championship Reign: 7 years

Legacy in Boxing

Influence on Future Generations

Larry Holmes' legacy extends beyond his impressive boxing record. As a mentor and role model, Holmes has inspired countless young fighters to pursue excellence in the sport. His dedication to training and his ability to adapt to changing circumstances have left a lasting impact on the boxing world.

Recognition in Popular Culture

Holmes' contributions to boxing have also been recognized in popular culture. From documentaries to feature films, his story continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Holmes' influence is evident in the way modern heavyweights approach the sport, drawing inspiration from his techniques and strategies.

Financial Impact and Endorsements

Throughout his career, Larry Holmes generated significant revenue through fights, endorsements, and other ventures. His popularity and success in the ring translated into lucrative deals with sponsors and brands. Holmes' financial acumen allowed him to invest in various business opportunities, ensuring his prosperity long after retirement.

Endorsement Deals and Partnerships

Partnerships with major sports brands
Involvement in television and media projects
Investments in real estate and other industries

Retirement and Post-Retirement Life

After retiring from professional boxing, Larry Holmes remained active in the sport, serving as a commentator and analyst for various boxing events. His post-retirement life has been characterized by continued involvement in the boxing community and a focus on mentoring young fighters.

Current Projects and Initiatives

Holmes has dedicated much of his time to charitable endeavors and community outreach programs. Through these initiatives, he aims to give back to the sport and support the next generation of boxers.

Comparison with Other Heavyweights

When compared to other heavyweight legends, Larry Holmes stands out for his longevity, consistency, and technical proficiency. While fighters like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson are often celebrated for their charisma and power, Holmes' ability to maintain dominance over an extended period sets him apart.

What Sets Holmes Apart?

Unmatched championship defenses
Technical prowess and ring intelligence
Resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges

Conclusion

Larry Holmes' boxing record is a testament to his greatness as a fighter and his enduring legacy in the sport. From his early days as an amateur to his dominance as a heavyweight champion, Holmes has consistently demonstrated the qualities of a true champion. His achievements, both inside and outside the ring, have earned him a place among the pantheon of boxing legends.

We invite you to share your thoughts and insights in the comments section below. For more fascinating stories about boxing and other sports, explore our website and stay updated with the latest developments in the world of athletics. Thank you for reading!

For further reading and research, consider the following sources:

International Boxing Hall of Fame
The Ring Magazine Archives
BoxRec: The Boxing Encyclopedia

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