Larry Holmes Believes Anthony Joshua Would Beat Prime Mike Tyson
In a bold statement, former heavyweight boxing champion Larry Holmes has asserted that British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua would have emerged victorious in a bout against a prime Mike Tyson.
Tyson’s Victory Over Holmes: A Pivotal Moment
It’s essential to recall that Mike Tyson secured a victory over Larry Holmes on January 22, 1988.
This victory came after Tyson held the heavyweight title from 1978 to 1985, marking a significant moment in boxing history.
A Remarkable Career: Tyson’s Record
Mike Tyson’s career is nothing short of remarkable, with a record boasting 50 wins, 6 draws, and just two defeats.
His 44 knockouts solidify his status as one of the greatest boxers of all time.
Holmes’ Knockout Defeat by Ali
Before facing Mike Tyson, Larry Holmes had experienced his first knockout defeat at the hands of the legendary Muhammad Ali.
Holmes: A Boxing Hall of Famer
Larry Holmes’ prowess in the boxing ring earned him a place in both the International and World Boxing Halls of Fame.
His achievements and contributions to the sport are widely recognized.
Anthony Joshua’s Abilities Defended
Larry Holmes, having faced Mike Tyson during their professional careers, firmly believes in Anthony Joshua’s abilities.
Despite recent criticism of AJ’s boxing skills, Holmes is convinced that Joshua possesses the qualities needed to defeat Tyson, especially in his prime.
Holmes’ Perspective: Joshua’s Winning Strategy
Holmes elaborated on his perspective, stating, “If he fought a guy like Mike Tyson, he’d win, he would have knocked out a prime Mike Tyson.
There’s no reckon about it. Mike Tyson went down low and then came up and tried to throw roundhouses.
But Joshua would just hit him with a straight right hand on the side of his damn chin and Mike wouldn’t get up.”
Holmes Reflects on Tyson’s Record
While acknowledging Mike Tyson’s formidable record as a knockout artist, Holmes also highlighted the context of Tyson’s fights.
He pointed out that Tyson hadn’t faced opponents who were making their way in the sport, which contributed to his reputation as a devastating puncher.
A Look Back at Holmes’ Bout with Tyson
Holmes didn’t shy away from his own experience, admitting, “I’m not taking anything away from Mike Tyson, he kicked my a**.
But I was out for two years, I had quit boxing, I hadn’t done anything for two years apart from singing with the band and travel.”
Larry Holmes’ belief in Anthony Joshua’s potential to defeat a prime Mike Tyson adds an intriguing layer to the ongoing debate about boxing legends and hypothetical matchups.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn