Hasim Rahman

Last updated

Hasim Rahman
Hasim Rahman 2008.jpg
Rahman in 2008
Born
Hasim Shariff Rahman

(1972-11-07) November 7, 1972 (age 52)
Other namesThe Rock
Statistics
Weight(s) Heavyweight
Height6 ft 2+12 in (189 cm)
Reach82 in (208 cm)
Stance Orthodox
Boxing record
Total fights62
Wins50
Wins by KO41
Losses9
Draws2
No contests1

Hasim Sharif Rahman (born November 7, 1972) is an American former professional boxer who competed from 1994 to 2014. He is a two-time world heavyweight champion, having held the unified WBC, IBF, IBO and lineal titles in 2001; and the WBC title again from 2005 to 2006. He was ranked as a top 10 heavyweight by BoxRec from 2000 to 2007, and reached his highest ranking of world No.6 in 2000. [1]

Contents

Rahman first became known on the world stage in 2001 when he scored an upset knockout victory against Lennox Lewis to win the unified heavyweight championship. Lewis avenged the loss and regained his championship by knocking out Rahman in a rematch later that year. Rahman won the WBC title (initially the interim version) for a second time in 2005 by defeating Monte Barrett, after which the WBC elevated him to full champion status by the year's end. His reign as champion ended in 2006 via another knockout loss, this time to Oleg Maskaev in a rematch of their first fight in 1999.

Professional career

1994–1997: prospect

Rahman started boxing at a relatively late age, taking up the sport at the age of 20. He had just 10 amateur bouts before making his pro debut on December 3, 1994, at age 22. Rahman tried to compensate on his lack of amateur background by being busy in the pros, sometimes fighting within five days from the previous bout. Rahman had nine professional fights in 1995, and eleven in 1996.

Rahman had obvious natural boxing skills that propelled him to 11 knockout wins in his first 12 fights. He took a step up in class in March 1996 with a 10-round decision win over veteran Ross Puritty and seven months later, he repeated the feat against former world champion Trevor Berbick. [2] [3] In July 1997, he won the regional USBA heavyweight title, and four months later, he added another regional belt, the IBF Intercontinental heavyweight title, defending the USBA title three times and the Intercontinental belt twice.

1998–2000: heavyweight title contention

On December 19, 1998, Rahman faced fellow contender David Tua in a fight to determine the IBF's mandatory contender. Rahman was using his power jab well, out boxing Tua virtually every round. At the end of the 9th round Tua staggered Rahman with a devastating punch after the bell that dazed him. At the beginning of the next round Tua hit him with several heavy shots and the referee jumped in when Rahman was bobbing and weaving. Tua won by TKO. It was argued that it should have been a DQ. [4]

Because of the controversial nature of the loss, Rahman's ranking did not suffer, but in November 1999, he was knocked out by Oleg Maskaev in the eighth round of a fight he looked to be winning. At one point during the match, Rahman was knocked through the ropes onto the floor, hitting his head on the floor. Rahman dropped out of The Ring top 10 as a result of the surprise loss. [5] Rahman later said that he had seen Maskaev earlier in his career get knocked out in the first round by former champion Oliver McCall and he assumed he was brought in as an easy win. Rahman claimed that because of this, he did not train as hard as he should have and was beaten.

2001: first world title and Lewis rivalry

Rahman in 2001 Hasim Rahman in 2001.jpg
Rahman in 2001

Rahman came back with three wins, including one in May 2000 over Corrie Sanders in a war in which he was dropped twice and came back to win in 7, and after that he was moved back up in the rankings. After this fight, Sanders briefly retired. [6] Finally, on April 22, 2001, Rahman earned a shot at Lennox Lewis the WBC, IBO and IBF heavyweight champion with a win over Frankie Swindell. [7] Rahman beat Swindell via 7th-round RTD. Swindell quit on his stool after the 7th round, informing the ringside doctor that he had suffered an eye injury. [8]

In the fight, held at Brakpan, South Africa, Lewis and Rahman traded hard blows for five rounds before Rahman, a 20-to-1 underdog, stunned the crowd by defeating Lewis via 5th-round KO. It was only the second loss of Lewis' career. [9] [10] His first was on September 24, 1994, when Oliver McCall defeated him via 2nd-round TKO.

Lewis had an immediate-rematch clause in the contract for his defense against Hasim, and chose to invoke it. Rahman and his new promoter, Don King, made plans to defend the titles against David Izon, rather than giving Lewis his rematch. [11] [12] Lewis sued Rahman in U.S. federal court to enforce their contract. The judge, Neil McCluskey sided with Lewis and on November 17, 2001, in Las Vegas, the two men met again. [13] This time, Lewis brutally knocked Rahman out in the fourth round. For the rematch, Lewis made $11 million and Rahman got $10 million. The fight generated 460,000 pay-per-view buys and $23 million in revenue. [14] [15] [16]

2002–2004: comeback

Rahman's comeback fight ended in disappointment, he was beaten by a technical decision by aging former champion Evander Holyfield after headbutts from Holyfield caused a massive swelling (severe hematoma) on Rahman's forehead. [17] [18]

On March 29, 2003, Rahman faced David Tua for a second time. The fight was ruled a draw after one judge scored it for Rahman, a second for Tua and a third had the score even. Tua was knocked down a split second after the bell rang and it was not ruled an official knockdown. Rahman came in at the heaviest weight of his career. In June, Rahman was elevated to the No. 1 contender's position by the WBC. [19]

On December 13, Rahman was matched with former WBA world champion John Ruiz, in a match for an Interim WBA heavyweight title (caused by Roy Jones Jr. deciding whether he wanted to stay a heavyweight or return to Light Heavyweight). Rahman was favored, but he lost by (twelve round) unanimous decision and again was out of condition. Ruiz, who became interim titleholder with this victory, was upgraded to WBA heavyweight champion after Roy Jones Jr. vacated the title on February 20, 2004, choosing to fight Antonio Tarver for the WBC and IBO light heavyweight titles (already in 2003), rather than Ruiz. [20]

After this defeat, Rahman stepped back to a lower level of competition and defeated four journeyman fighters while working to get back into shape. His efforts paid off when he was rewarded with a fight against Kali Meehan on November 13, 2004. The fight was an elimination bout for the IBF, WBA, and WBC, with the winner being the number-one contender in more than one world-title organization. Rahman scored the victory by a fourth-round knockout at New York City's Madison Square Garden. [21]

2005: second world title and Vitali Klitschko fight cancellation

The WBC designated Rahman as Vitali Klitschko's next mandatory challenger; the fight was set for April 30, 2005. Klitschko injured his thigh while training for the fight, so it was rescheduled for June 18. As this date approached, Klitschko's camp said that the thigh had not fully healed; the WBC made July 23 the new fight date. Soon after this second postponement, Vitali's doctors reportedly discovered back injuries that they said demanded minor-yet-immediate corrective surgery. The WBC pushed Rahman's title shot back again, this time to November 12; Rahman's share of the purse following this match would reportedly be around US$4.2 million. [22]

After this third rescheduling, Rahman, fought for a WBC "Interim" heavyweight championship and defeated Monte Barrett on August 13, 2005, via unanimous decision.

At this point, Klitschko would be stripped of his WBC title if his first fight back was not against Rahman. On November 7, it was announced that Klitschko had suffered severe right knee injuries during training; the WBC said it would strip him of the championship if he was unable to box within 60–90 days of a soon-to-be-announced base date. However, on November 9, Vitali Klitschko retired instead. [23] On November 10, 2005, the WBC voted to award its heavyweight championship to Rahman, making Rahman a two-time heavyweight champion. [24]

On December 9, 2005, a U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge ended Rahman's contract with Don King and he signed instead with Top Rank Boxing. [25]

2006: title fights vs. Toney, Maskaev

On March 18, 2006, Rahman fought James Toney to a draw, in a 12-round fight in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and he retained the WBC heavyweight title. The judges scorecards read 114-114, 117-111 and 114-114. Judges Tom Kaczmarek and Nobuaki Uratani had Toney leading by one point heading into the 12th. Rahman only retained the title by winning the final round. [26]

Rahman reached his peak rankings in 2006. The April 2006 issue of the Ring ranked him the #2 heavyweight in the world after IBF champion Chris Byrd. [27] BoxRec retroactively ranked him #4 that year, below Nikolai Valuev, Lamon Brewster, and Chris Byrd. [28]

On August 12, 2006, Rahman lost the WBC heavyweight championship to rival Oleg Maskaev by 12th Round TKO in a mandatory defense of his title. Rahman led on the judges' scorecards for most of the close fight, with the three judges respectively scoring it 106-103 for Rahman, 103-106 for Maskaev, and 105-104 for Rahman going into 12th round; Rahman landed 250 punches throughout the bout (47% accuracy) to Maskaev's 184 (28% accuracy). [29] However, Rahman was knocked down early in the 12th and eventually stumbled to the mat. Rahman was then holding on to the ropes to stay on his feet. Maskaev landed a flurry of punches with Rahman unable to defend himself. The referee stopped the bout to save Rahman from further punishment. Afterwards he said he should have followed his trainer's game plan by staying cautious in the last round to win on points, instead of rushing Maskaev, mistakenly thinking him too tired to fight back. [30]

2007: second comeback

Rahman during training, 2008 Hasim Rahman.jpg
Rahman during training, 2008

After a 10-month layoff, Rahman resumed his career with a ten-round unanimous decision over Taurus Sykes June 14, 2007, at The Main Street Armory in Rochester, New York. [31] [32] Rahman then fought three times in three months defeating Dicky Ryan by second-round TKO on September 7, 2007. Hasim followed up by stopping Cerrone Fox on October 18, 2007. On November 15, 2007, Rahman then scored a 10th-round TKO for the NABF title against Zuri Lawrence. In this fight, Lawrence fell through the ropes on two occasions whilst ducking punches, once in round six and again in round nine. In round six, he landed on the floor below the ring, but beat the referee's 20-count. He received a standing ovation from the crowd when he re-entered the ring. [33]

2008: Rahman vs. Toney II, Wladimir Klitschko

Going into 2008, the 35 year old Rahman was still considered a potent fighter. He held the NABF continental title and was ranked #4 by the IBF and #8 by the WBO. BoxRec retroactively ranked him the world's 8th best heavyweight in 2007. [28] However, his two fights in that year would both end in defeat.

On July 16, 2008, Rahman was stopped by an accidental headbutt against James Toney. Toney was originally awarded a TKO victory as the referee declared Rahman had quit between rounds. A week later, the TKO victory was overturned and changed to a No Contest due to the headbutt. After three rounds, Toney was ahead on 29–28 on two of the judges cards while Rahman was ahead, 29–28 on the third card. [34] [35] [36]

Rahman lost to Wladimir Klitschko by TKO in the 7th round on December 13, 2008, for his WBO, IBO & IBF titles. Klitschko dominated the fight, winning every round while making good use of his left jab. Rahman seemed unable to withstand the Ukrainian's punch power. The referee called a stop to the contest in the 7th round after Rahman failed to respond to a series of shots, having been knocked down in the sixth round and left visibly disoriented. [37] [38] [39] At the time of the stoppage, Klitschko was leading on all three judges scorecards, respectively 60–53, 60–53, and 60–47; Klitschko landed 178 punches (48% accuracy) to Rahman's 30 (14% accuracy), a nearly six-fold disparity. [40]

2009–2011: layoff and third comeback

In an interview dated February 26, 2009, with DreamFighters.com, Rahman expressed his interest in crossing over into mixed martial arts. [41]

Fifteen months after the seventh round loss to Wladimir Klitschko in December 2008, Rahman made a comeback against 43-year-old journeyman Clinton Boldridge winning the fight via TKO 1. Rahman next fought on June 19, 2010, against journeyman Shannon Miller (16–4, 9 KO) in a match that took in the Niagara Falls Conference Centre, Niagara Falls, New York, United States. Rahman came into the ring at 260 pounds and won the bout by TKO in the 4th round, after sending Miller down in each of the four rounds. [42] [43] He then won his next three fights (all by knockout), against Damon Reed, Marcus McGee and Galen Brown. His win over Galen Brown marked Rahmans 50th professional win in his career. With this win, he ran his record to 5-0 (all wins via knock out) since his loss to Wladimir Klitschko.

2012: title shot vs. Povetkin

He was elevated to the WBA number one contender to face Alexander Povetkin on September 29, 2012, for the WBA regular heavyweight championship. [44] Povetkin beat Rahman via 2nd-round TKO. [45]

2014: Super 8 Tournament

In yet another attempt to re-enter the heavyweight scene Rahman signed up for the super 8 tournament, an elimination-style event staged in Auckland, New Zealand. [46] But despite holding the tag as tournament favorite the ageing Rahman was outpointed by little-known club fighter Anthony Nansen in the quarter-final on June 4, 2014.

Personal life

Born on November 7, 1972, Rahman was raised in Baltimore, Maryland. [47] He is a practising Muslim and was fasting in the month of Ramadan when he faced Lennox Lewis. [48]

As a teenager, Rahman was an enforcer for drug dealers, and was known for surviving several shootings. [49] He nearly died in a car accident (which left him with permanent scarring on his cheek and ear) and once survived a shooting where five bullets entered his body. [50] In 2001, Rahman and his family were involved in a car accident shortly after a celebration at City Hall. Rahman sustained no serious injuries and received no medical assistance, while his wife, Crystal, was hospitalized. [51]

Rahman has a son, Hasim Rahman Jr., who is a professional boxer as well. [52]

Professional boxing record

62 fights50 wins9 losses
By knockout416
By decision93
Draws2
No contests1
No.ResultRecordOpponentTypeRound, timeDateLocationNotes
62Loss50–9–2 (1) Anthony Nansen UD3Jun 4, 2014 The Trusts Arena, Auckland, New Zealand Super Eight Boxing Tournament I: heavyweight quarter-final
61Loss50–8–2 (1) Alexander Povetkin TKO2 (12), 1:46Sep 29, 2012 Alsterdorfer Sporthalle, Hamburg, GermanyFor WBA (Regular) heavyweight title
60Win50–7–2 (1)Galen BrownTKO6 (10), 1:45Jun 11, 2011 DeSoto Civic Center, Southaven, Mississippi, U.S.
59Win49–7–2 (1)Marcus McGeeKO1 (8), 3:00Oct 2, 2010 Roberto Durán Arena, Panama City, Panama
58Win48–7–2 (1)Damon ReedKO6 (10), 2:20Aug 14, 2010 Scope, Norfolk, Virginia, U.S.
57Win47–7–2 (1)Shannon MillerTKO4 (10), 1:37Jun 19, 2010The Conference & Event Center, Niagara Falls, New York, U.S.
56Win46–7–2 (1)Clinton BoldridgeTKO1 (6), 2:50Mar 26, 2010Beaumont Club, Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
55Loss45–7–2 (1) Wladimir Klitschko TKO7 (12), 0:44 Dec 13, 2008 SAP Arena, Mannheim, GermanyFor IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight titles
54NC45–6–2 (1) James Toney TKO3 (12), 3:00Jul 16, 2008 Pechanga Resort & Casino, Temecula, California, U.S.Vacant WBONABO heavyweight title at stake;
Originally a TKO win for Toney, later ruled an NC after an incorrect referee call
53Win45–6–2 Zuri Lawrence TKO10 (10), 2:20Nov 15, 2007 Sovereign Center, Reading, Pennsylvania, U.S.Retained NABF heavyweight title
52Win44–6–2Cerrone FoxTKO1 (10), 2:27Oct 18, 2007 Kewadin Casino, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, U.S.
51Win43–6–2Dicky RyanTKO2 (10), 0:41Sep 7, 2007 Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort, Mount Pleasant, Michigan, U.S.
50Win42–6–2 Taurus Sykes UD10Jun 14, 2007 Main Street Armory, Rochester, New York, U.S.Won NABF interim heavyweight title
49Loss41–6–2 Oleg Maskaev TKO12 (12), 2:17 Aug 12, 2006 Thomas & Mack Center, Paradise, Nevada, U.S.Lost WBC heavyweight title
48Draw41–5–2 James Toney MD12 Mar 18, 2006 Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City, New Jersey, U.S.Retained WBC heavyweight title
47Win41–5–1 Monte Barrett UD12Aug 13, 2005 United Center, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.Won vacant WBC interim heavyweight title
46Win40–5–1 Kali Meehan RTD4 (12), 3:00 Nov 13, 2004 Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.
45Win39–5–1Terrence LewisKO2 (10), 0:43Jul 28, 2004 Frontier Field, Rochester, New York, U.S.
44Win38–5–1 Rob Calloway KO2 (10), 2:00Jun 17, 2004Michael's Eighth Avenue, Glen Burnie, Maryland, U.S.
43Win37–5–1Mario CawleyTKO2 (8), 2:25Apr 16, 2004 Dover Downs, Dover, Delaware, U.S.
42Win36–5–1 Al Cole UD10Mar 11, 2004Michael's Eighth Avenue, Glen Burnie, Maryland, U.S.
41Loss35–5–1 John Ruiz UD12 Dec 13, 2003 Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City, New Jersey, U.S.For WBA interim heavyweight title
40Draw35–4–1 David Tua SD12Mar 29, 2003 Spectrum, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
39Loss35–4 Evander Holyfield TD8 (12), 1:19 Jun 1, 2002 Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City, New Jersey, U.S.Split TD: Rahman sustained eye swelling after an accidental head clash
38Loss35–3 Lennox Lewis KO4 (12), 1:29 Nov 17, 2001 Mandalay Bay Events Center, Paradise, Nevada, U.S.Lost WBC, IBF, and IBO heavyweight titles
37Win35–2 Lennox Lewis KO5 (12), 2:32 Apr 22, 2001 Carnival City, Brakpan, South AfricaWon WBC, IBF, and IBO heavyweight titles
36Win34–2Frankie SwindellRTD7 (10), 3:00Aug 4, 2000 The Joint, Paradise, Nevada, U.S.
35Win33–2 Corrie Sanders TKO7 (12), 1:50May 20, 2000 Bally's Park Place, Atlantic City, New Jersey, U.S.Won WBU heavyweight title
34Win32–2 Marion Wilson UD10Mar 1, 2000Martin's West, Woodlawn, Maryland, U.S.Won vacant Maryland State heavyweight title
33Loss31–2 Oleg Maskaev KO8 (10), 0:40Nov 6, 1999 Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City, New Jersey, U.S.
32Win31–1Arthur WeathersKO1 (10), 1:44Apr 15, 1999Miccosukee Resort & Gaming, Miami, Florida, U.S.
31Win30–1Michael RushTKO5 (10), 2:40Mar 12, 1999 Roseland Ballroom, New York City, New York, U.S.
30Loss29–1 David Tua TKO10 (12), 0:35Dec 19, 1998 Miccosukee Resort & Gaming, Miami, Florida, U.S.Lost IBF Inter-Continental and USBA heavyweight titles
29Win29–0Garing LaneRTD2 (10), 3:00Jul 9, 1998 Grand Casino Avoyelles, Marksville, Louisiana, U.S.
28Win28–0Steve PannellKO2 (12), 1:48Apr 21, 1998Players Island Casino, Lake Charles, Louisiana, U.S.Retained IBF Inter-Continental and USBA heavyweight titles
27Win27–0 Melvin Foster TKO2 (10)Mar 14, 1998 Olympic Stadium, Moscow, Russia
26Win26–0 Jesse Ferguson UD12Jan 31, 1998Etess Arena, Atlantic City, New Jersey, U.S.
25Win25–0Tui ToiaKO1 (10), 3:08Dec 4, 1997 Pepsi Arena, Albany, New York, U.S.
24Win24–0 Obed Sullivan MD12Nov 1, 1997 Apollo Theater, New York City, New York, U.S.Retained USBA heavyweight title;
Won IBF Inter-Continental heavyweight title
23Win23–0Jeff WoodenTKO9 (12), 1:44Jul 15, 1997Riverside Convention Center, Rochester, New York, U.S.Won vacant USBA heavyweight title
22Win22–0Marshall TillmanKO1 (8), 2:39Jan 9, 1997 Beverly Wilshire Hotel, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
21Win21–0Herman DelgadoKO2 (8), 1:37Dec 17, 1996 National Guard Armory, Pikesville, Maryland, U.S.
20Win20–0Marcos GonzálezKO1 (10)Dec 3, 1996Everton Park Sports Centre, Liverpool, England
19Win19–0Brian SargentTKO1 (8), 1:24Nov 8, 1996 Arizona Charlie's Decatur, Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.
18Win18–0 Trevor Berbick UD10Oct 15, 1996 Convention Hall, Atlantic City, New Jersey, U.S.
17Win17–0Mark YoungTKO3 (8)Aug 8, 1996 Sudduth Coliseum, Lake Charles, Louisiana, U.S.
16Win16–0Martin FosterKO2 (10), 0:57Jun 9, 1996Fernwood Resort, Bushkill, Pennsylvania, U.S.
15Win15–0Tim KnightTKO4 (8), 2:43Jun 4, 1996Martin's West, Woodlawn, Maryland, U.S.
14Win14–0Steve EdwardsTKO2 (6), 2:34May 3, 1996 The MARK of the Quad Cities, Moline, Illinois, U.S.
13Win13–0 Ross Puritty UD10Mar 26, 1996Blue Cross Arena, Rochester, New York, U.S.
12Win12–0Mike MitchellKO1 (8), 1:07Mar 9, 1996 Etess Arena, Atlantic City, New Jersey, U.S.
11Win11–0Bradley RoneTKO1 (6), 2:27Feb 9, 1996Tropworld Casino and Entertainment Resort, Atlantic City, New Jersey, U.S.
10Win10–0Mike RobinsonKO1 (6)Dec 13, 1995 Tropworld Casino and Entertainment Resort, Atlantic City, New Jersey, U.S.
9Win9–0James JohnsonTKO3 (6)Oct 10, 1995 Blue Cross Arena, Rochester, New York, U.S.
8Win8–0Matt GreenTKO2 (6)Sep 12, 1995Martin's West, Woodlawn, Maryland, U.S.
7Win7–0Carl McGrewTKO1 (6)Aug 26, 1995 Bismarck Hotel, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
6Win6–0Larry DavisTKO2 (6)Jul 13, 1995Martin's Crosswinds, Greenbelt, Maryland, U.S.
5Win5–0Eric ValentineKO1 (4)Jun 6, 1995Martin's West, Woodlawn, Maryland, U.S.
4Win4–0Jeff WilliamsMD4Mar 28, 1995 Casino Magic, Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, U.S.
3Win3–0Dennis CainTKO2 (4), 2:22Jan 11, 1995Martin's West, Woodlawn, Maryland, U.S.
2Win2–0Robert JacksonTKO1 (4)Jan 6, 1995 Virginia Beach, Virginia, U.S.
1Win1–0Gregory HerringtonKO1 (4), 1:35 Dec 3, 1994 Caesars Palace, Paradise, Nevada, U.S.

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Lennox Lewis</span> British-Canadian boxer (born 1965)

Lennox Claudius Lewis is a boxing commentator and former professional boxer who competed from 1989 to 2003. He is a three-time world heavyweight champion, a two-time lineal champion, and held the undisputed championship. Holding dual British and Canadian citizenship, Lewis represented Canada as an amateur at the 1984 and 1988 Olympics; in the latter, he won a gold medal in the super-heavyweight division.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">John Ruiz</span> American boxer

John Ruiz is an American former professional boxer who competed from 1992 to 2010, and held the WBA heavyweight title twice between 2001 and 2005. Ruiz is of Puerto Rican descent, and is the first Latino boxer to win a world heavyweight title.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Wladimir Klitschko</span> Ukrainian boxer (born 1976)

Wladimir Klitschko is a Ukrainian former professional boxer who competed from 1996 to 2017. He held multiple heavyweight world championships between 2000 and 2015, including unified titles between 2008 and 2015. During this time also held the International Boxing Organization (IBO) and Ring magazine titles.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">David Tua</span> New Zealand boxer (born 1972)

Mafaufau Tavita Lio Mafaufau Sanerivi Talimatasi, best known as David Tua, is a Samoan-New Zealand former professional boxer who competed from 1992 to 2013. A highly ranked heavyweight contender for most of his career, Tua was known for his formidable punching power, especially in his devastating left hook. He scored sixteen wins by knockout in the first round, which included knockouts of world heavyweight champions John Ruiz and Michael Moorer within thirty seconds of the first round, as well as late stoppages of world champions Oleg Maskaev and Hasim Rahman. He was ranked by BoxRec in the world's top 10 heavyweights from 1996 to 2003, reaching his highest ranking of No.3 in 1998. Tua ended his career with a knockout-to-win ratio of 82.6%. In a 2003 article by The Ring magazine, Tua was ranked 48th on a list of 100 greatest punchers of all time.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Samuel Peter</span> Nigerian boxer

Samuel Okon Peter is a Nigerian professional boxer. He held the WBC heavyweight title in 2008, when he stopped Oleg Maskaev in six rounds. In his prime, he was known for his rivalry with the Klitschko brothers, having faced Wladimir twice and Vitali once. Peter was named among the 20 greatest athletes in the history of independent Nigeria by The Punch in 2023, while his capturing of the WBC heavyweight title was ranked the 26th most memorable moment in independent Nigeria's sports history by Premium Times in 2020. He was ranked by The Ring among ten best heavyweights at the conclusion of a year from 2005 to 2008, reaching his highest ranking of world No.2 in 2007. Peter is known for his punching power and holds a 78.9% knockout-to-win ratio.

Oleg Alexandrovich Maskaev is a Russian-American former professional boxer who competed from 1995 to 2013, and held the WBC heavyweight title from 2006 to 2008.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Monte Barrett</span> American boxer

Monte Barrett is an American former professional boxer who competed from 1996 to 2014. He challenged once for the WBA heavyweight title in 2006, and fought many top heavyweight champions and contenders during his career.

Derrick Lavon Jefferson is an American former professional boxer. He challenged once for the WBO title in 2001, and is perhaps best remembered for his brutal left hook-knockout of Maurice Harris in 1999.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Klitschko brothers</span> Ukrainian boxers

Vitali Klitschko and Wladimir Klitschko, known as the Klitschko Brothers, are Ukrainian former professional boxers. During their peak years between 2004 and 2015, they were considered the dominant world heavyweight champions of their era, and among the most successful champions in boxing history. In 2011, they entered the Guinness World Records book as brothers with most world heavyweight title fight wins. In the years following the retirement of heavyweight titlist Lennox Lewis in 2004, the Klitschko brothers would eventually accumulate all four major world heavyweight titles. Known for their exceptionally large physiques, speed, and punching power, they each developed a style that utilized their athleticism and arm reach to break down opponents.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Lennox Lewis vs. David Tua</span> Boxing competition

Lennox Lewis vs. David Tua, billed as Royal Rampage, was a professional boxing match contested on November 11, 2000 for the WBC, IBF, and IBO heavyweight championships.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Hasim Rahman vs. Lennox Lewis II</span> Boxing competition

Hasim Rahman vs. Lennox Lewis II, billed as Final Judgment, was a heavyweight professional boxing match contested between unified WBC, IBF, IBO and lineal champion Hasim Rahman and former undisputed heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis. The bout took place on November 17, 2001 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Paradise, Nevada, and served as a rematch of their April 22 bout in which Rahman scored a major upset. In the rematch, Lewis won by knockout.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Chris Byrd vs. Evander Holyfield</span> Boxing competition

Chris Byrd vs. Evander Holyfield was a professional boxing match contested on December 14, 2002 for the vacant IBF heavyweight championship.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Wladimir Klitschko vs. Ruslan Chagaev</span> Boxing competition

Wladimir Klitschko vs. Ruslan Chagaev, billed as "Knockout Auf Schalke", was a professional boxing match contested on 20 June 2009 for the IBF, WBO, IBO, and vacant The Ring heavyweight championship.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Wladimir Klitschko vs. Hasim Rahman</span> Boxing competition

Wladimir Klitschko vs. Hasim Rahman, billed as "X-Plosive", was a professional boxing match contested on 13 December 2008 for the IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight championship.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">John Ruiz vs. James Toney</span> Boxing competition

John Ruiz vs. James Toney was a professional boxing match contested on April 30, 2005, for the WBA heavyweight championship.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Anthony Joshua vs Éric Molina</span> Boxing competition

Anthony Joshua vs Éric Molina was a heavyweight professional boxing match contested between undefeated IBF champion Anthony Joshua, and the IBF's number 7 ranked contender and former world title challenger, Éric Molina. The bout took place on 10 December 2016 at the Manchester Arena in Manchester, England. Joshua defeated Molina, retaining his heavyweight title via third-round technical knockout (TKO).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Hasim Rahman vs. James Toney</span> Boxing Match

Hasim Rahman vs. James Toney, billed as The Big Boys are Back, was a professional boxing match contested on 18 March 2006 for the WBC heavyweight championship.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Hasim Rahman vs. Oleg Maskaev II</span>

Hasim Rahman vs. Oleg Maskaev II, billed as America's Last Line of Defense, was a professional boxing match contested on 12 August 2006, for the WBC heavyweight championship.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Oleg Maskaev vs. Samuel Peter</span> Boxing event

Oleg Maskaev vs. Samuel Peter, billed as Championship Heat, was a professional boxing match contested on 8 March 2008, for the WBC heavyweight championship.

References

  1. "BoxRec's Annual Ratings: Heavyweight Annuals". BoxRec. Retrieved December 21, 2023.
  2. mike goodpaster (October 2, 2014), Hasim Rahman v.s Ross Puritty, archived from the original on August 11, 2017, retrieved April 25, 2017
  3. YeahJustLikeChuckie (May 16, 2012), Hasim Rahman - Trevor Berbick, archived from the original on August 17, 2017, retrieved April 25, 2017
  4. Ritchie .T A (June 20, 2013), Hasim Rahman vs David Tua (1st Fight), archived from the original on October 29, 2021, retrieved April 25, 2017
  5. Ritchie .T A (June 20, 2013), Hasim Rahman vs Oleg Maskaev (1st Fight), archived from the original on October 29, 2021, retrieved April 25, 2017
  6. Erraticsboxing (July 17, 2012), Hasim Rahman vs. Corrie Sanders (Highlights), archived from the original on September 26, 2012, retrieved April 25, 2017
  7. "Rahman to face Swindell on ESPN2 card in August". tribunedigital-baltimoresun. Retrieved April 25, 2017.
  8. Hasim Rahman vs Frankie Swindell (04-08-2000) , retrieved April 25, 2017
  9. Cauvin, Henri (April 18, 2001). "BOXING; Rahman Is Hoping to Block Lewis's Path to Tyson". The New York Times. ISSN   0362-4331 . Retrieved April 25, 2017.
  10. "Knocked Out by Rahman, Lewis Champ No Longer". Los Angeles Times. Associated Press. April 22, 2001. ISSN   0458-3035 . Retrieved April 25, 2017.
  11. "USATODAY.com - Don King signs Hasim Rahman". usatoday30.usatoday.com. Retrieved April 25, 2017.
  12. "Rahman's first defense vs. Izon". The Washington Times. Retrieved April 25, 2017.
  13. SPRINGER, STEVE (June 22, 2001). "Rahman Decision Packs a Big Punch". Los Angeles Times. ISSN   0458-3035 . Retrieved April 25, 2017.
  14. "On This Day: Lennox Lewis gets sweet revenge over Hasim Rahman in Las Vegas - Boxing News". Boxing News. November 17, 2016. Retrieved April 25, 2017.
  15. Ritchie .T A (July 17, 2013), Lennox Lewis vs Hasim Rahman 2 - The Rematch - Undisputed Heavyweight Championship, archived from the original on October 29, 2021, retrieved April 25, 2017
  16. Hoffer, Richard. "Payback Ending Hasim Rahman's seven-month joyride as the heavyweight champion, Lennox Lewis regained the title and a measure of respect for his career". SI.com. Retrieved April 25, 2017.
  17. Ritchie .T A (June 3, 2013), Evander Holyfield vs Hasim Rahman - Part 2/2, archived from the original on November 11, 2014, retrieved April 25, 2017
  18. Freeman, Mike (June 2, 2002). "BOXING; After Fight Is Stopped, the Winner Is Holyfield". The New York Times. ISSN   0362-4331 . Retrieved April 25, 2017.
  19. mike goodpaster (October 14, 2014), David Tua v s Hasim Rahman 2, archived from the original on August 5, 2017, retrieved April 25, 2017
  20. DrunkColin (May 15, 2011), John Ruiz - Hasim Rahman - full fight || polecam: ringpolska.pl, archived from the original on October 29, 2021, retrieved April 25, 2017
  21. Ritchie .T A (June 3, 2013), Hasim Rahman vs Kali Meehan - Great Fight, archived from the original on October 29, 2021, retrieved April 25, 2017
  22. "Rahman wants Klitschko! - World boxing - Boxing news - BOXNEWS.com.ua". www.boxnews.com.ua. Retrieved April 26, 2017.
  23. "Manager: Klitschko is 'done for good'". ESPN.com. November 9, 2005. Retrieved April 26, 2017.
  24. "Hasim Rahman Prepares to Accept WBC Heavyweight Title - Boxing News". www.boxingscene.com. November 9, 2005. Retrieved April 26, 2017.
  25. "Judge releases Rahman from contract with King". ESPN . December 10, 2005. Retrieved January 4, 2017.
  26. "BBC SPORT | Boxing | Rahman keeps crown following draw". news.bbc.co.uk. March 19, 2006. Retrieved April 26, 2017.
  27. The Ring Magazine's Annual Ratings: 2005.
  28. 1 2 "BoxRec's Annual Ratings: Heavyweight Annuals - BoxRec".
  29. BoxRec: Hasim Rahman vs. Oleg Maskaev (2nd meeting).
  30. spiritofmusicX (March 17, 2016), 🔺 Oleg Maskaev vs Hasim Rahman #2 🔻, archived from the original on October 29, 2021, retrieved April 26, 2017
  31. "Hasim Rahman vs Taurus Sykes on June 14 • Boxing News". Boxing News Archive. May 7, 2007. Retrieved April 26, 2017.
  32. "Fight Hasim Rahman W UD 10 (10) Taurus Sykes - Boxing news - BOXNEWS.com.ua". www.boxnews.com.ua. Retrieved April 26, 2017.
  33. "Fight Hasim Rahman W TKO 10 (10) Zuri Lawrence - Boxing news - BOXNEWS.com.ua". www.boxnews.com.ua. Retrieved April 26, 2017.
  34. James Toney (May 17, 2016), James Toney vs Hasim Rahman 2 7/16/2008 Fight #81, archived from the original on October 29, 2021, retrieved April 26, 2017
  35. "James Toney Stops Hasim Rahman, Question Marks Left - Boxing News". www.boxingscene.com. July 17, 2008. Retrieved April 26, 2017.
  36. "Toney vs. Rahman Result Changed To a No-Decision - Boxing News". www.boxingscene.com. July 28, 2008. Retrieved April 26, 2017.
  37. HBO (January 7, 2009), Wladimir Klitschko vs Hasim Rahman: Highlights (HBO Boxing) , retrieved April 26, 2017
  38. Claudio, EJ. "My Thoughts On Wladimir Klitschko vs. Hasim Rahman". Bleacher Report. Retrieved April 26, 2017.
  39. agencies, Telegraph staff and. "Vladimir Klitschko KO's Hasim Rahman" . Telegraph.co.uk. Archived from the original on January 11, 2022. Retrieved April 26, 2017.
  40. https://[boxrec.com/media/index.php/Wladimir_Klitschko_vs._Hasim_Rahman BoxRec: Wladimir Klitschko vs. Hasim Rahman.]
  41. "DreamFighters Exclusive with Hasim Rahman : DreamFighters.com". Archived from the original on March 1, 2009. Retrieved February 26, 2009.
  42. Vester, Mark (June 20, 2010). "Hasim Rahman Destroys Shannon Miller in Four Round". BoxingScene.com. Retrieved June 20, 2010.
  43. Kim, Jason (June 20, 2010). "Rahman stops Miller". BoxingNews24.com. Retrieved June 20, 2010.
  44. "Ready or not, Rahman gets a shot". ESPN.com. Retrieved April 26, 2017.
  45. Robert Schröer (September 29, 2012), Alexander Povetkin vs Hasim Rahman Full Fight HD 29 Sept 2012, archived from the original on August 11, 2017, retrieved April 26, 2017
  46. Johnstone, Duncan (April 2, 2014). "Hasim Rahman to fight in NZ 'Super 8' bout". Stuff.co.nz. Retrieved April 26, 2017.
  47. "Hasim Rahman - BoxRec".
  48. "Hasim Rahman: From Baltimore streets to world title straps - Sport360 News". sport360.com.
  49. "Las Vegas Review-Journal". Reviewjournal.com. Retrieved January 4, 2017.
  50. "A heavyweight not to be taken lightly". Baltimore Sun . Retrieved January 4, 2017.
  51. "ESPN.com: BOXING - Heavyweight champ tossed from car in post-rally crash". a.espncdn.com.
  52. "Update: Jake Paul vs. Hasim Rahman Official for August 6". Mma News | Ufc News, Results & Interviews. July 7, 2022.
Sporting positions
Regional boxing titles
Vacant
Title last held by
Lou Savarese
USBA heavyweight champion
July 15, 1997 – December 19, 1998
Succeeded by
Preceded by IBF Inter-Continental
heavyweight champion

November 1, 1997 – December 19, 1998
Vacant
Title last held by
George Chaplin
Maryland heavyweight champion
March 1, 2000 – January 2006
Vacated
Vacant
Title next held by
Tony Thompson
Vacant
Title last held by
Eliecer Castillo
NABF heavyweight champion
Interim title

June 14, 2007 – November 15, 2007
Won full title
Vacant
Title next held by
Travis Walker
Vacant
Title last held by
Samuel Peter
NABF heavyweight champion
November 15, 2007 – July 2008
Vacated
Vacant
Title next held by
Chris Arreola
Minor world boxing titles
Preceded by WBU heavyweight champion
May 20, 2000 – April 2001
Vacated
Vacant
Title next held by
Johnny Nelson
Preceded by IBO heavyweight champion
April 22, 2001November 17, 2001
Succeeded by
Lennox Lewis
Major world boxing titles
Preceded by
Lennox Lewis
WBC heavyweight champion
April 22, 2001 – November 17, 2001
Succeeded by
Lennox Lewis
IBF heavyweight champion
April 22, 2001 – November 17, 2001
New title WBC heavyweight champion
Interim title

August 13, 2005 – November 9, 2005
Promoted
Vacant
Title next held by
Samuel Peter
Preceded by WBC heavyweight champion
November 9, 2005 – August 12, 2006
Succeeded by
Awards
Previous:
José Luis Castillo
MD12 Stevie Johnston
The Ring Upset of the Year
KO5 Lennox Lewis

2001
Next:
Juan Carlos Rubio
UD10 Francisco Bojado