Heavyweight icon Larry Holmes has revealed his toughest ever opponent.
Known as ‘The Easton Assassin’, Holmes reigned as the world heavyweight champion between 1978 and 1985, making 20 successful defences of his crown.
The American great possessed one of the best jabs that the sport has ever seen, which played a significant role in him racking up victories over the likes of Tim Witherspoon, Trevor Berbick and Muhammad Ali.
Despite going up against an abundance of legendary heavyweights over the course of his tenure, including Ali, Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield, ‘The Easton Assassin’ gave a surprising answer when asked who his best ever opponent actually was.
Speaking to TMZ Sports, Holmes revealed Ken Norton, who he defeated to become WBC heavyweight champion back in 1978, as the best fighter he ever faced, overlooking the once ferocious ‘Iron’ Mike.
“No, my toughest fight was Kenny Norton.
“I fought Tyson when I was kinda over the hill a little bit. I had retired then come back and fought Mike Tyson and I wasn’t really in shape for it, but you know what, I did what I did at that time. But if I had to do it all over again I would have taken more time and done it right.”
Holmes was declared the winner via split decision after a hard-fought 12-rounds against Norton at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas on June 9 1978 to capture the coveted WBC title in what was a legacy defining victory for ‘The Easton Assassin’, who would embark on an impressive reign as world champion following this win.
