When did Mike Tyson fight Larry Holmes? This is a question that has intrigued boxing fans for decades. The highly anticipated match between these two boxing legends took place on March 15, 1985, at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Mike Tyson, often regarded as one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time, had already established himself as a formidable force in the sport. With a record of 29 wins, 1 loss, and 12 knockouts, Tyson was on the rise and hungry for more titles. On the other hand, Larry Holmes, known as the “Easthampton Express,” had won the World Heavyweight Championship in 1978 and had successfully defended it 17 times before facing Tyson.
The fight was hyped as a clash of styles, with Tyson’s aggressive and relentless punching style against Holmes’s defensive and counter-punching approach. Many boxing experts believed that Holmes’s experience and boxing IQ would be crucial in overcoming Tyson’s brute force.
The match began with Tyson coming out strong, throwing punches at Holmes with relentless speed and power. Holmes managed to hold his own, but it was clear that Tyson was the more dominant fighter. In the third round, Tyson landed a powerful left hook that sent Holmes to the canvas. Despite Holmes’s ability to recover, he was clearly affected by the knockdown, and the fight began to shift in Tyson’s favor.
As the rounds progressed, Tyson continued to land powerful punches, while Holmes struggled to find his rhythm. In the eleventh round, Tyson landed another knockdown, and it became evident that Holmes was struggling to keep up with the pace. The referee counted Holmes out, and Tyson was declared the winner by knockout, securing his second heavyweight title.
The fight between Mike Tyson and Larry Holmes is often remembered as one of the greatest heavyweight matchups in boxing history. It showcased the sheer power and athleticism of Tyson, while also highlighting Holmes’s resilience and skill. Although Holmes was defeated that night, he remained a respected and admired figure in the boxing world, and his legacy continues to this day.
