Evander Holyfield: The Real Deal on Being a Four-Time Champ, Forgiving Tyson, and Boxing’s Future

When discussing his place in boxing history, Holyfield was unequivocal, pointing to a singular record that sets him apart:

“Well no doubt I’m the only guy who ever donned it four times. And so, that would put me better than everybody that was before me. And I always say that I’m number #1 by who I was preceded by being the champion four different times.”

He also proudly ranked himself among the sport’s most skilled fighters, declaring himself “one of the best counter punchers.”

Dissecting the Greats: Tyson vs. Foreman

Holyfield provided a master class in adjusting his strategy for two of his most formidable opponents: Mike Tyson and George Foreman.

• Against George Foreman: “Foreman was taller. He was about 6’4” and a LOT stronger. And so, I had to be in and out. I couldn’t stay there too long… I could stand on the outside and I know where to be in and when to get out.”
• Against Mike Tyson: Holyfield acknowledged Tyson’s raw power but focused on his unpredictable style. “He was VERY explosive. He was very tricky and he threw a lot more different shots than George Foreman… you had to ALWAYS be alert. He was like a rattlesnake; he could get to you a lot quicker.”

Reflecting on his battles with Lennox Lewis, Holyfield noted that Lewis’s height and “passive” style—using his jab to cover up—made the first fight difficult, resulting in a draw. He maintains that he truly won their second meeting, a victory that would have made him a five-time champion.

He also fondly recalled fighting an older, more experienced Larry Holmes, whose “good jab” kept him competitive.

Forgiveness and the Biting Incident

Holyfield revealed the immediate decision he made regarding the infamous biting incident with Mike Tyson: he forgave him quickly.

“Well, by the time that we got to the press conference, I already made up my mind that I was going to forgive him because forgiving is just one big part of life that you’re not even going to love your family members if you’re not able to forgive.”

While they are not “actually friends,” Holyfield noted that they maintain a cordial relationship, speaking occasionally, proving that they were able to “make a deal to come together.”

The Future of Boxing and YouTube Fighters

Holyfield offered a surprisingly positive take on the rise of YouTube boxers and MMA fighters like Jake Paul entering the sport. He believes they are inadvertently helping the overall economics of boxing.

“I actually think that is good for the sport,” he said. He argues the money these newcomers are making should serve as a wake-up call to the professional circuit:

“It lets you know that if these guys can make all that money then, why should these other people who are professionals that box for real; they SHOULD be making a lot of money.”

However, he emphasized that for boxing to return to its former glory, the foundation needs strengthening: the amateur program.

“We have to get our amateur program back together… The amateur boxing program is the reason why that boxing was so well. We did great in the ’84 Olympics and we did great in the ’88 Olympics and in ’92. Then after ’96, it seemed like that no one was working with the program. The amateur program is the key to boxing.”