The most famous boxers. Famous boxers American heavyweight boxers of the 80s

There is no doubt that personalities decide everything in boxing. Of course, it sometimes happens that the main characters are not in the ring, but in the shadow of the spotlights. Until now, promoters in the offices decide the fate of the fights. Nevertheless, there is a series of champions in boxing who have gone down in the history of this sport.

These are real personalities who have fought legendary fights and achieved their fame in battles with really strong opponents. Today, novice boxers look up to these idols, dreaming of winning at least a fraction of their glory.

JOSEPH WILLIAM "JOE" FRASER

American professional boxer, competing in the heavy weight category. Olympic champion in 1964. World Heavyweight Champion (WBC version, 1970-1973; WBA version, 1970-1973). He is recognized by many reputable sports publications as one of the greatest boxers of all time, along with Muhammad Ali.

For a long time, there was no one on Joe's path who could beat him. Only Buster Mathis managed to do this. That victory gave him the right to go to the Tokyo Olympics in 1964. But a hand injury prevented Mathis, in the end it was Fraser who represented the United States.

He became the Olympic champion, defeating the German Huber in the final. Since 1965 Fraser has been acting like a professional. His boxing style is quite tough, with a left hook considered to be his signature hit. In the first 11 fights, Fraser won victories, but in September 1966, the unyielding Oscar Bonavena stood in his way. During the round, this Argentinian knocked down Fraser twice, but he managed to turn the tide of the fight and win. By the end of 1967, Fraser had an impressive 19 wins in 19 fights.

When Muhammad Ali was stripped of his title, the WBA was in chaos with the definition of the champion. The result was a New York State Special Tournament. Fraser was able to knock out his old friend Mathis and take the prestigious title. In 1968-1970 Joe repeatedly defended his status, and in 1970 he became the undisputed world champion.

When in the summer of the same year, Muhammad Ali was removed from the disqualification, it became unclear who should be considered number one in boxing? By the end of that year, Ali had won several fights and secured the right to fight Fraser for the undisputed champion title. That fight caused a lot of excitement. Each boxer was promised $ 2.5 million for participation.

A 15-round bout took place on March 8, 1971 at Madison Square Garden. In that fight, Joe Fraser managed to inflict the first defeat of Muhammad Ali in his career. This decision was taken by the judges unanimously. A year and a half later, Fraser in Jamaica is defeated by George Foreman and his career begins to decline. Attempts to regain the championship title did not end with success; in 1976, Fraser left boxing. By that time, he managed to lose twice to Ali and again to Foremen. Fraser tried to return to the ring in 1981, but this ended in failure. In 2011, the legendary boxer died of liver cancer.

MUHAMMED ALI

American professional boxer in the heavyweight division; one of the most famous and recognizable boxers in the history of world boxing. Champion of the XVII Summer Olympic Games in 1960 in the light heavy weight category, the absolute world champion in the heavy weight (1964-1966, 1974-1978).

Winner of the title "Boxer of the Year" (five times - 1963, 1972, 1974, 1975, 1978) and "Boxer of the Decade" (1970s) according to The Ring magazine; The 2nd ever boxer to win the Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year award (1974), has been named Sportsman of the Century by several sports publications. Upon retirement, he was inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame (1987) and the International Boxing Hall of Fame (1990). A bright speaker.

Muhammad Ali had the ideal physique of an athlete, he had a flexible mind and excellent intuition. But that was preceded by hard work. The younger brother threw stones at Cassius, honing his reaction. The then timid teenager began training with police officer Joe Martin.

For the love of sports, the athlete ignored the problems with his pressure. In 1959, the promising boxer easily qualified for the US Olympic Team. Cassius Clay won the 1960 Olympics easily as a light heavyweight champion. From 1964 to 1974, Ali was a multiple world heavyweight boxing champion. For 20 years he was the king of the ring. With a height of 192 cm, the boxer weighed about 97 kg, he was very mobile. It is no coincidence that Ali owns the phrase: "I flutter like a butterfly, pity like a bee."

In total, the legend had 25 title or qualifying fights, which is second only to Joe Louis. In total, Ali suffered 5 defeats in the ring, the first of which was in the championship fight with Joe Fraser in 1971.

One of the greatest battles of Muhammad Ali took place on October 30, 1974 in Kinshasa. He was opposed by reigning champion George Foreman. Muhammad Ali fought the entire battle, and in the 8th round he punched the opponent. The powerful champion collapsed onto the platform. But he was a legendary fighter who managed to beat many strong opponents and achieve the title of champion! One can imagine the strength of Muhammad Ali.

In the early 80s, the great boxer ended his career losing 3 of his last 4 fights. In total, he spent 56 fights in the professional ring, won 51, 37 of which by knockout. Unfortunately, in less than 40 years, the athlete was struck by Parkinson's disease. Throughout his life, the boxer also fought for black rights and peace, protested against the Vietnam War.

ROCKY MARCHIANO

American professional boxer, world heavyweight champion from September 23, 1952 to November 30, 1956.
This boxer was born in 1923 in Massachusetts into a disabled Italian family. From childhood, Rocky grew up as a brave boy. But to earn a living, he had to work from a young age. He cleared the streets of snow, washed dishes, laid pipes, and dug the ground.

The developed teenager was noticed by boxing trainer Jin Cajano. But in 1943, Rocky was drafted into the army. While serving in the navy, on leave he fought for money in pubs, developing his fist art. Marciano was agile, sharp and determined. His strikes were precise and strong. It was like a bulldog who was ready to fight to the last drop of blood.

In both his personal and daily life, Rocky Marciano was quite modest. He eschewed luxury, devoting a lot of time to his family. But behind these was a man with incredible willpower. In total, in the professional field, Rocky spent 49 fights without losing more than one. The debut took place in 1947.

In 1951, Marciano met with the legendary Joe Luis. The aged champion resigned to a young assertive competitor. In 1952, Marciano, in a fight against another champion, Jersey Joe Walcott, was knocked down for the first time, but was able to get up and knock out the opponent in the 13th round.

Victories were not easy for Marciano, he often left the ring with a bloody and disfigured face. But 83% of his fights ended ahead of schedule, with a knockout. Rocky was one of the first to practice his blows in the water. Preparations for the battle at Marciano were carried out at the highest level of professionalism.

The last fight of the undefeated champion took place in 1956, his career was over due to back problems.
And in 1969, Rocky Marciano died tragically in a plane crash. It is believed that it was he who served as the prototype for Rocky Balboa, the protagonist of the Rocky film series that made Sylvester Stallone famous.

GEORGE FORMEN

American professional boxer, competing in the heavy weight category. Olympic champion in 1968. World Heavyweight Champion (WBC version, 1973-1974; WBA version, 1973-1974 and 1994; IBF version, 1994-1995) weight category.

This legendary boxer had a long and illustrious career, during which he fought 81 fights, losing only 5 of them. The future champion was born in 1949 in Texas. Foreman started boxing at a school for troubled teenagers. At the age of 19, Foremen successfully performed at the Olympics, winning gold there. The road to becoming a professional was open.

He was able to hold out for only 4.5 minutes, during which time he was knocked down 7 times. Fraser gave his title only on October 30, 1974, when he lost to Muhammad Ali. After that fight, George felt a connection with God. The second bell came after the 1977 defeat from Jimmy Young. Foreman left sports and became a preacher. He built a church, collected donations. 10 years outside of boxing changed the athlete, but in 1987 he announced that he dreamed of returning.

Foreman was about to become champion again. After a year of training, the boxer regained his shape. Foreman won 24 fights in a row, all by knockout.

In April 1991, he lost to Evander Holyfield only on points, never becoming the undisputed champion. But soon Foreman got the WBA belt for his victory over Michael Moorer in 1994. The boxer finally left the sport in 1997. Currently, Foreman has returned to his previous activities - he preaches sermons and helps the disadvantaged.

JOE LUIS

Legendary American professional boxer, world heavyweight champion. The boxer was born into a poor family in 1914. His father picked cotton in Alabama, but in 1924 the family moved to Detroit. Here the future athlete got a job with his father at the Ford plant. Mother loved Joe very much and collected money for him to study music. But he took all the savings to the boxing club. It is not clear what Joe was guided by, because he was not a fighter.

An experienced tall fighter was released against the newcomer in the club. He began to beat Louis, but suddenly Joe sent his abuser to the floor with a counter blow. Soon there was no equal to the young boxer in the rather big Detroit. Coach Jack Blackburn drew attention to the promising athlete, who promised to get Louis out of the ghetto and make him a professional.

At 22, Joe began his career in the big ring. He literally broke into the elite. Louis, known as "The Brown Corporal", won his first 27 fights, 24 of them by knockout. The coach selected opponents for him, gradually increasing their level. However, Louis swept away both experienced boxers and ex-champions from the ring.

Before the outbreak of World War II, Joe defended his title of undisputed champion 25 times. Equal rivals did not appear, and the fees for battles with a decided outcome became less and less. In 1948, Louis decided to retire from the sport.

But Louis quickly squandered that capital. At the end of his life, the former boxer worked as a gatekeeper at a Las Vegas casino. In this city, the legendary athlete died in 1981.

Various boxing organizations and polls have named Joe Louis as the best puncher in history. He spent 27 fights for the championship, holding the title of the strongest boxer in the world for 11 years. Louis won 66 of his 70 fights.

MICHAEL TYSON

American professional boxer in the heavyweight division; one of the most famous and recognizable boxers in the history of world boxing. Olympic champion among juniors in the first heavy weight (1982). The absolute world champion in the heavy weight category (1987-1990).

Champion in versions WBC (1986-1990, 1996), WBA (1987-1990, 1996), IBF (1987-1990), The Ring (1988-1990). Line champion (1988-1990). "The most promising boxer" in 1985 according to the magazine "Ring". The best boxer, regardless of weight category (1987-1989) according to the magazine "Ring".

"Boxer of the Year" according to the magazine "Ring" (1986, 1988). BWAA Boxer of the Year (1986,1988). BBC Sports Personality of the Year (1989). BBC Foreign Athlete of the Year (1989). Best Sportsman Abroad (1987-1989) according to the BBC.

Included in the International Boxing Hall of Fame (2011), the World Boxing Hall of Fame (2010), the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame (2013), the WWE Hall of Fame (2012). At the 49th annual WBC convention in Las Vegas, Michael Tyson was inscribed in the Guinness Book of Records and in a solemn ceremony received two certificates: for the largest number of fastest knockouts and for becoming the youngest world heavyweight champion.

Tyson was born in 1966 in New York. By that time, his father had separated from his mother. In the future, Michael took the name of his mother. The family lived in Brooklyn, in a poor neighborhood. The young guy grew up big and tough, but his voice at first was high and lisp. Mike had to fight a lot to teach his offenders a lesson.

Soon, in Brownsville, everyone knew this unyielding black guy. When he was furious, he could knock a grown man down with his blows. Over time, Michael became a participant in many dubious stories - thefts, attacks, robberies. To fix the troubled teenager, the authorities sent him to a boys' school on the outskirts of the state. Here Tyson had a happy meeting with coach Bobby Stewart. He himself was once a professional and managed to teach the young guy the basics of boxing.

In 1980, Stewart brought his charge to New York to show the manager D'Amato. The coach entered the ring with his ward, and it soon became clear to everyone that Tyson would be the new world champion. Michael first entered the professional ring on March 5, 1985. In total, the boxer fought 15 fights that year, winning all by knockout. Tyson managed to become the youngest world champion, having won this title at the age of 20. At the age of 21, Michael managed to become the youngest undisputed world champion. Failures in your personal life will inevitably affect your career. Iron Michael.

He was arrested for assault and rape, in 1992 Tyson went to jail. Returning to the ring in 1995 did not become triumphant. In addition, in the match against Holyfield, the boxer also managed to throw a scandal by biting off a piece of his opponent's ear. The last fight of the champion took place in 2005, after being defeated by the little-known Kevin McBride, Tyson decided not to embarrass himself and leave the sport. Today, Tyson acts in films, behind his shoulders 3 convictions, 3 marriages and 8 children. The talented boxer quickly climbed to the pinnacle of success, but also quickly squandered his gift.

MAX SHMELING

German professional boxer, competing in the heavy weight category. The first (and until 2007 the only) German world heavyweight champion (1930-1932). "Boxer of the Year" according to the magazine "Ring" (1930). After completing his boxing career, he worked as a sports judge for several years.

This boxer has lived a long and glorious life. He was born in 1905 in Germany. Schmelling made his first fight in the professional ring at the age of 19. At the age of 21, he became the German lightweight champion, in 1927 he won the continental championship, and the very next year Max had no equal in his country in the heavyweight division.

In 1930, Schmelling defeated American Sharkey in New York to win the world title. The title was soon lost due to a dubious decision by the judges. But in 1936, the German became champion again, defeating the young talent Joe Louis. But the bets on the victory of the American were 10 against 1. At that moment, the Aryan athlete becomes the pride of Nazi propaganda. His name is the perfect German, the white man defeated the black. The rematch with Lewis in 1938 in New York, Hitler saw as an opportunity to prove to the world the superiority of his nation.

70 thousand spectators gathered at the stadium, Max himself was perceived only as a Nazi, insulting and throwing garbage at him.

Schmelling lost crushingly in the first round, for millions of that victory became a symbol of the defeat of fascism. They tried not to remember the name of their former favorite in Germany. The enraged Hitler, having learned that the boxer also supported the Jews, sent his former favorite to the front. Schmelling managed to survive in the meat grinder of World War II. After her, he went into business and even helped financially to his former rival Louis. Let the boxer's whole life be an example of decency, respect for his rivals. Compatriots loved Schmelling for his beautiful victories in the ring. In total, Max fought 70 fights, of which he won 56, and the boxer died at the age of 99.

LENNOX LEWIS

Canadian and British professional boxer in the heavyweight division. Champion of the XXIV Olympic Games in the weight category over 91 kg (as part of the Canadian national team). Champion of North America among amateurs in the category over 91 kg (1987). Absolute World Heavyweight Champion among professionals (1999).

World Heavyweight Champion WBC (1993-1994, 1997-2001 and 2001-2003), IBF (1999-2001 and 2001-2002), WBA (1999). Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, the World Boxing Hall of Fame, and the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame.

The athlete was born in London in 1965. At the age of 12, Lennox and his family moved to Canada. Lewis grew up very athletic as a child, playing football, volleyball, basketball and boxing. He had offers to continue playing for college in gaming disciplines, but Lennox chose amateur boxing.

Already at the age of 17, he managed to become the world champion among juniors. At 18, the young boxer competed at the Los Angeles Olympics, representing Canada. He lacked experience, and Lewis only reached the quarterfinals. Even then, a promising fighter began to be called up to professionals. But Lewis himself dreamed of becoming an Olympic champion, which he succeeded in 4 years later.

In the final in the second round, American Riddick Bowie was knocked out. Lewis began his professional career in 1989. He becomes the heavyweight champion of England, then wins the European championship. On October 31, 1992, in London, Lewis defeated the dangerous Razor Ruddock in just 2 rounds, and after 2 months the Briton became the WBC world champion.

Lennox lost his title in September 1994, but in early 1997 he managed to regain his title, becoming the first Briton to do so.

Then there were impressive victories over Andrew Golota, Shannon Briggs, Zeyko Mavrovik. In 1999, an interesting duel took place with Evander Holyfield for the title of champion in three versions at once. The fight was watched by 150 million TV viewers. Then a draw was recorded, the re-fight brought the title of absolute champion to Lennox Lewis.

Then there were victories over Hasim Rahman, Michael Tyson, Vitali Klitschko. After a dubious victory over the Ukrainian, the Englishman announced the end of his career. In total, Lewis had 44 fights, winning 41 of them. The boxer entered the elite club of those heavyweight champions who sooner or later beat all their rivals. The Englishman left undefeated, holding the championship title.

SUGAR RAY ROBINSON

American professional boxer, competing in the light, first welterweight, welterweight, first middle, middle, second middle and light heavy weight categories. World champion in welterweight (1946-1950) and middle (1951, 1951-1952, 1955-1957, 1957 and 1958-1960) weight categories. The best boxer of all time, regardless of weight category, according to the magazine "Ring" (2002).

This American athlete was born in 1921 in the town of Ailey, Georgia, under the name Walker Smith Jr. In the family, the boy turned out to be the third child, his father had to work hard and hard. After his parents divorced, Walker ended up with his mother in New York, in the Harlem area.

Studying at school did not work out, and the teenager decided to devote all his strength to boxing. The young fighter was once called by his coach as sweet as sugar. This is how the first part of his nickname appeared. And to participate in clandestine battles, he borrowed the name and card of his friend - Ray Robinson. So the young boxer got his nickname, which will soon become famous. In featherweight, the athlete won all of his 90 fights, receiving the Golden Gloves award.

Since 1940, Sugar Ray Robinson has become a professional. He literally blew up the boxing world with his appearance. In 1946, the young athlete became the world welterweight champion. In 1951, he won the middleweight title. In the title of champion, Robinson retired from the sport in 1952, losing only 3 fights. However, boxing did not let him go so easily.

The return to the sport happened in 1955 and turned out to be triumphant. Sugar Ray Robinson became the first boxer to regain the title after officially retiring. In 1958, the boxer again became the middleweight champion. However, in 1960, the belt was lost to Paul Pender.

At the end of his career, the great boxer tried to prove himself in the entertainment industry and in business. But nowhere outside the ring did the athlete succeed. Robinson suffered from Alzheimer's in his final years, dying in poverty in 1989.

HENRY ARMSTRONG

American professional boxer and world boxing champion who goes by the name of Henry Armstrong. Considered one of the greatest boxers of all time by many critics and fellow professionals.

The world boxing legend was born in 1912 in Columbus, Mississippi. At birth, he received the surname Jackson. He entered the history of world boxing as the owner of three champion titles at the same time in different weight categories. At the age of 17, Armstrong began to participate in amateur fights, and the transition to professionals took place in 1933. At that time, the boxer won 58 of his 62 fights. In 1937, Armstrong became the featherweight champion by knocking out Sarron.

A year later, multiple welterweight champion Barney Ross was defeated. Ten weeks after that victory, Lou Ambers was reclaimed the lightweight belt. In 1937-1938, Armstrong eventually won 46 fights in a row, 7 of them title fights.

The boxer's managers agreed to fight any opponents, saying that the bets on Armstrong at that moment were the most correct. At that time, boxing glory belonged entirely to Joe Louis, which is why Armstrong and his managers decided to collect three titles in their hands at the same time.

According to the rules of the American Boxing Association, an athlete had to vacate the title if he became a champion in another weight. Therefore, Armstrong gave up his titles without a fight. In total, during his professional career, the boxer had 174 fights, scoring 145 victories. He was nicknamed "perpetual motion machine" and "California comet" for its swiftness and strength.

The Hank Hurricane was a non-stop hitting machine, more rhythmically than purposefully.

In 1945, Armstrong retired from the sport, deciding to become a preacher. In 1951, the athlete became a Baptist priest, working with the poor. The illustrious champion died in 1988.

1. Sugar Ray Robinson 175-19-6 (109) 2 NC. Not only the greatest according to The RING magazine, but also one of the most productive. He could box, punch and had a granite jaw. Established the standards by which all boxers are judged. The appearance of the term "pound-for-pound" is associated with his name.

2. Henry Armstrong 150-21-9 (100). The only person in the history of boxing who held titles in three different weights at the same time. A ruthless and indefatigable puncher who shocked opponents with continuous attack. He had a series of 27 fights, winning all by knockout.

3. Muhammad Ali 56-5 (37). A symbol of the craziest 60s and possibly the most charismatic athlete the world has seen. Loved him or hated him, they always watched him in the ring. Made a revolution in heavyweight division. Heavyweight with the speed of a middleweight. First to win heavyweight title three times.

4. Joe Louis 68-3 (54) Possibly the scariest heavyweight puncher ever. Set a record for heavyweight title defenses that has not been broken to this day. He became a national hero of two Americas at once: white and black.

5. Roberto Duran 104-16 (69). The Panamanian native became the first Latin boxer to achieve stellar acclaim in America. He smashed everybody in the lightweight division for six years, and then was able to achieve amazing success in the heavier categories.

6. Wille Pepp 229-11-1 (65) One of the greatest fighters who knew how to box. Won all first 62 matches. He possessed such an art of defense that he once won a round without striking a single blow.

7. Harry Greb 115-8-3 (51) 183 fights without a winner. He was nicknamed "The Windmill" for the fact that he continuously struck. As a middleweight, he defeated the best welterweights, light heavyweights and heavyweights of his time without having a knockout punch. I lost only two fights ahead of schedule.

8. Benny Leonard 85-5-1 (69) 121 bouts without a winner. Boxing skill and strong punch allowed him to dominate the lightweight division when there were many talented fighters there. Lost by knockout only four times in over 200 fights. Could have won the welterweight title if he hadn't hit Jack Britton when he was already down.

9. Sugar Ray Leonard 36-3-1 (25) After winning the Olympics in 1976, he became a pro in the post-Ali era. Just like Ali relied on speed and improvisation. Just like Ali never shied away from strong opponents. He defeated boxers of any style.

10. Pernell Whitaker 40-4-1 (17) 1984 Olympic champion. He was a champion in four weight categories. He had such a boxing talent that fights with his participation often turned into one-sided beating. Many believe that he didn't actually lose a fight until he was 35.

Joe Fraser. This American was born in South Carolina in 1944. Boxing happened to be in Joe's life by accident, his first hobby was gymnastics. However, taking up a new sport for himself, Fraser managed to become one of the best heavyweights in America. For a long time, there was no one on Joe's path who could beat him. Only Buster Mathis managed to do this. That victory gave him the right to go to the Tokyo Olympics in 1964. But a hand injury prevented Mathis, in the end it was Fraser who represented the United States. He became the Olympic champion, defeating the German Huber in the final.

Since 1965 Fraser has been acting like a professional. His boxing style is quite tough, with a left hook considered to be his signature hit. In the first 11 fights, Fraser won victories, but in September 1966, the unyielding Oscar Bonavena stood in his way. During the round, this Argentinian knocked down Fraser twice, but he managed to turn the tide of the fight and win. By the end of 1967, Fraser had an impressive 19 wins in 19 fights.

When Mohammed Ali was stripped of his title, the WBA was in chaos with the definition of the champion. The result was a New York State Special Tournament. Fraser was able to knock out his old friend Mathis and take the prestigious title for himself. In 1968-1970 Joe repeatedly defended his status, and in 1970 he became the undisputed world champion. When in the summer of the same year, Mohammed Ali was removed from the suspension, it became unclear who should be considered number one in boxing? By the end of that year, Ali had won several fights and secured the right to fight Fraser for the undisputed champion title. That fight caused a lot of excitement. Each boxer was promised $ 2.5 million for participation.

A 15-round bout took place on March 8, 1971 at Madison Square Garden. In that fight, Joe Fraser managed to inflict the first defeat in his career on Muhammad Ali. This decision was taken by the judges unanimously. A year and a half later, Fraser in Jamaica is defeated by George Foreman and his career begins to decline. Attempts to regain the championship title did not end with success; in 1976, Fraser left boxing. By that time, he managed to lose twice to Ali and again to Foremen. Fraser tried to return to the ring in 1981, but this ended in failure. In 2011, the legendary boxer died of liver cancer.

Muhammad Ali. The future legendary champion was born in 1942, then his name was Cassius Clay. 16-year-old Ali's career began with a call to famous coach Angelo Dundee. Young Cassius said that it was worth taking him under guardianship, then he could become an Olympic champion and simply the best boxer in the world. The coach decided to work with a promising young man and was right. He turned out to be a boxer by nature.

He had the ideal physique of an athlete, he had a flexible mind and excellent intuition. But that was preceded by hard work. The younger brother threw stones at Cassius, honing his reaction. The then timid teenager began training with police officer Joe Martin. For the love of sports, the athlete ignored the problems with his pressure. In 1959, the promising boxer easily qualified for the US Olympic Team.

Cassius Clay won the 1960 Olympics easily as a light heavyweight champion. From 1964 to 1974, Ali was a multiple world heavyweight boxing champion. For 20 years he was the king of the ring. With a height of 192 cm, the boxer weighed about 97 kg, he was very mobile. It is no coincidence that Ali owns the phrase: "I flutter like a butterfly, pity like a bee." In total, the legend had 25 title or qualifying fights, which is second only to Joe Louis. In total, Ali suffered 5 defeats in the ring, the first of which was in the championship fight with Joe Fraser in 1971.

Rocky Marciano. This boxer was born in 1923 in Massachusetts into a disabled Italian family. From childhood, Rocky grew up as a brave boy. But to earn a living, he had to work from a young age. He cleared the streets of snow, washed dishes, laid pipes, and dug the ground.

And in 1969, Rocky Marciano died tragically in a plane crash. It is believed that it was he who served as the prototype for Rocky Balboa, the protagonist of the "Rocky" series of films that made Sylvester Stallone famous.

George Foreman. This legendary boxer had a long and illustrious career, during which he fought 81 fights, losing only 5 of them. The future champion was born in 1949 in Texas. Foreman started boxing at a school for troubled teenagers. At the age of 19, Foremen successfully performed at the Olympics, winning gold there. The road to becoming a professional was open.

In 1969, in just six months of performances, Foreman managed to win 13 victories. He was 195 cm tall and had strong arms, which made him a tough fighter. The rising star meets the champion Joe Fraser on January 2, 1973. He was able to hold out for only 4.5 minutes, during which time he was knocked down 7 times. Fraser gave his title only on October 30, 1974, when he lost to Muhammad Ali.

After that fight, George felt a connection with God. The second bell came after the 1977 defeat from Jimmy Young. Foreman left sports and became a preacher. He built a church, collected donations. 10 years outside of boxing changed the athlete, but in 1987 he announced that he dreamed of returning. Foreman was about to become champion again. After a year of training, the boxer regained his shape. Foreman won 24 fights in a row, all by knockout.

Joe Louis. The boxer was born into a poor family in 1914. His father picked cotton in Alabama, but in 1924 the family moved to Detroit. Here the future athlete got a job with his father at the Ford plant. Mother loved Joe very much and collected money for him to study music. But he took all the savings to the boxing club. It is not clear what Joe was guided by, because he was not a fighter.

Louis, known as "The Brown Corporal", won his first 27 fights, 24 of them by knockout. The coach selected opponents for him, gradually increasing their level. However, Louis swept away both experienced boxers and ex-champions from the ring. Before the outbreak of World War II, Joe defended his title of undisputed champion 25 times. Equal rivals did not appear, and the fees for battles with a decided outcome became less and less. In 1948, Louis decided to retire from the sport.

A year later, the undefeated champion was returned to the ring - a new generation of fighters grew up. Luis lost the very first fight to Ezzard Charles, and the brutal defeat by Marciano in 1951 put the end to it. At that time, the fortune of the great boxer was a fantastic 4.5 million dollars. But Louis quickly squandered that capital. At the end of his life, the former boxer worked as a gatekeeper at a Las Vegas casino. In this city, the legendary athlete died in 1981.

Mike Tyson. Tyson was born in 1966 in New York. By that time, his father had separated from his mother. In the future, Mike took the name of his mother. The family lived in Brooklyn, in a poor neighborhood. The young guy grew up big and tough, but his voice at first was high and lisp. Mike had to fight a lot to teach his offenders a lesson.

Soon, in Brownsville, everyone knew this unyielding black guy. When he was furious, he could knock a grown man down with his blows. Over time, Mike became a participant in many dubious stories - thefts, attacks, robberies. To fix the troubled teenager, the authorities sent him to a boys' school on the outskirts of the state.

Here Tyson had a happy meeting with coach Bobby Stewart. He himself was once a professional and managed to teach the young guy the basics of boxing. At that time, Michael was only 13 years old, and he already weighed 90 kg and was very strong. Tyson squeezed a barbell weighing 100 kg from his chest. Stewart arranged training with Mike. Tyson quickly realized that he would not be able to get a degree and began to devote all his time and energy to boxing.

In 1980, Stewart brought his charge to New York to show the manager D'Amato. The coach entered the ring with his ward, and it soon became clear to everyone that Tyson would be the new world champion. Michael first entered the professional ring on March 5, 1985. In total, the boxer fought 15 fights that year, winning all by knockout. Tyson managed to become the youngest world champion, having won this title at the age of 20. At the age of 21, Michael managed to become the youngest undisputed world champion. Failures in his personal life inevitably affected the career of "Iron Michael".

Max Schmelling. This boxer has lived a long and glorious life. He was born in 1905 in Germany. Schmelling made his first fight in the professional ring at the age of 19. At the age of 21, he became the German lightweight champion, in 1927 he won the continental championship, and the very next year Max had no equal in his country in the heavyweight division.

In 1930, Schmelling defeated American Sharkey in New York to win the world title. The title was soon lost due to a dubious decision by the judges. But in 1936, the German again became champions, defeating the young talent Joe Louis. But the bets on the victory of the American were 10 against 1. At that moment, the Aryan athlete becomes the pride of Nazi propaganda. His name is the perfect German, the white man defeated the black. The rematch with Lewis in 1938 in New York, Hitler saw as an opportunity to prove to the world the superiority of his nation.

70 thousand spectators gathered at the stadium, Max himself was perceived only as a Nazi, insulting and throwing garbage at him. Schmelling lost crushingly in the first round, for millions of that victory became a symbol of the defeat of fascism. They tried not to remember the name of their former favorite in Germany. The enraged Hitler, having learned that the boxer also supported the Jews, sent his former favorite to the front.

Schmelling managed to survive in the meat grinder of World War II. After her, he went into business and even helped financially to his former rival Louis. Let the boxer's whole life be an example of decency, respect for his rivals. Compatriots loved Schmelling for his beautiful victories in the ring. In total, Max fought 70 fights, of which he won 56, and the boxer died at the age of 99.

Lennox Lewis. The athlete was born in London in 1965. At the age of 12, Lennox and his family moved to Canada. Lewis grew up very athletic as a child, playing football, volleyball, basketball and boxing. He had offers to continue playing for college in gaming disciplines, but Lennox chose amateur boxing.

Lewis began his professional career in 1989. He becomes the heavyweight champion of England, then wins the European championship. On October 31, 1992, in London, Lewis defeated the dangerous Razor Ruddock in just 2 rounds, and after 2 months the Briton became the WBC world champion. Lennox lost his title in September 1994, but in early 1997 he managed to regain his title, becoming the first Briton to do so.

Sugar Ray Robinson. This American athlete was born in 1921 in the town of Ailey, Georgia, under the name Walker Smith Jr. In the family, the boy turned out to be the third child, his father had to work hard and hard. After his parents divorced, Walker ended up with his mother in New York, in the Harlem area.

In featherweight, the athlete won all of his 90 fights, receiving the Golden Gloves award. Since 1940, Sugar Ray Robinson has become a professional. He literally blew up the boxing world with his appearance. In 1946, the young athlete became the world welterweight champion. In 1951, he won the middleweight title. In the title of champion, Robinson retired from the sport in 1952, losing only 3 fights. However, boxing did not let him go so easily.

Sugar Ray Robinson is considered one of the greatest boxers of all time. He stood out from the crowd for his some kind of ideal appearance. The boxer's face is without scars and grins, his hair is thoroughly poured. The speed and accuracy of Robinson's punches, the rapid transition from defense to attack, confused the enemy. At the end of his career, the great boxer tried to prove himself in the entertainment industry and in business. But nowhere outside the ring did the athlete succeed. Robinson suffered from Alzheimer's in his final years, dying in poverty in 1989.

Henry Armstrong. The world boxing legend was born in 1912 in Columbus, Mississippi. At birth, he received the surname Jackson. He entered the history of world boxing as the owner of three champion titles at the same time in different weight categories. At the age of 17, Armstrong began to participate in amateur fights, and the transition to professionals took place in 1933. At that time, the boxer won 58 of his 62 fights.

In 1937, Armstrong became the featherweight champion by knocking out Sarron. A year later, multiple welterweight champion Barney Ross was defeated. Ten weeks after that victory, Lou Ambers was reclaimed the lightweight belt. In 1937-1938, Armstrong eventually won 46 fights in a row, 7 of them title fights.

The Hank Hurricane was a non-stop hitting machine, more rhythmically than purposefully. In 1945, Armstrong retired from the sport, deciding to become a preacher. In 1951, the athlete became a Baptist priest, working with the poor. The illustrious champion died in 1988.

It's hard to believe that boxing is an ancient martial art that dates back to 688 AD. This sport gained worldwide development in the 16th and 17th centuries, and nowadays boxing is known to almost everyone around the planet.

In ancient times, leather belts were used to protect against enemy blows, and now - special gloves. If you want to win this game, under the supervision of the referee, you need to make fierce blows to the opponent continuously for 2 to 3 minutes. The game only ends when the referee announces the winner. The referee also monitors compliance with the rules in the ring and the health of the competitors.

Boxing comes in two main categories, amateur and professional, and both boxers spend hundreds of hours of training and use a variety of techniques and tactics.

In this article, we've rounded up the top 10 best boxers of all time. People who made history thanks to their successes in this sport made our list.

Floyd Mayweather

He is a great boxing promoter and fighter, but there is one oddity that he is known for, he has given up many fights for fear of being defeated. It is for this reason that he ranks last in our ranking of the leading boxers in the world. But at the moment, Mayweather is the highest paid boxer in the world.

Leonard is one of the top ten boxers thanks to his elegant power, fluid movement around the ring, leg strength and wise fighting tactics. He is also one of the heaviest boxing champions. He became champion in five categories, which is really great.

The three categories in the line-ups are also his achievement, making him one of the ten best boxers of all time. Interestingly - named after the singer Ray Charles, is the godfather of Khloe Kardashian.

George Foreman

Boxing fans know George Foreman by the name "Big George" and he also cannot fail to be mentioned in the list of the best boxers. This boxer has won the world heavyweight title twice. He also won gold medal at the Mexico City Olympics.

He is indeed a very talented person as he is an entrepreneur and preaching pastor. According to IBRO, he is included in the list of the eight greatest world world champions in boxing and that is why he is included in our list.

Roy is a man with many talents, perhaps the rest of the members of our list cannot boast of this. He is a rapper, boxing trainer, promoter and actor. Roy started his career with the very basics of boxing and eventually won the heavyweight title.

Moving from middleweight to heavyweight is indeed an achievement. In 2003, Roy was declared the best fighter of the year and is therefore worth mentioning in our ranking. An interesting fact, in addition to the American, Roy also has Russian citizenship.

In the boxing world, Joe was known as the Brown Scorer. Ring magazine ranked him number one in the Top 100 Puncher Boxers of All Time. He was born in 1914 and died in 1981, having lived through both the golden era of boxing and the Second World War.

When he began his professional boxing career, he was known as the first African American to achieve such success in the boxing ring. His other achievement is striking - the world heavyweight title remained with him from 1937 to 1949, and this is really amazing. Therefore, he is without a doubt one of the ten best boxers in the world.

Rocky is another of the top ten, and he can be called special due to the fact that in his entire boxing career no opponent has been able to defeat him. He is also known for holding the world heavyweight title for four years.

Since childhood, Rocky is used to a wide variety of jobs, from cleaning snow to laying gas pipes. Another shock in life - due to injury, his baseball career did not work out, but as a result, he became a world famous boxer. By the way, this Rocky became the prototype of another, cinematic Rocky performed by Sylvester Stallone.

Manny Pacquiao

Manny is another of the greatest athletes of our time. Manny Pacquiao has been named the "Fighter of the Decade" by the WBC, WBO and the Boxing Association of America. He became champion at eight! categories, and in five categories - he is the only linear five-time champion.

Manny is indeed a great boxer - he has been voted Boxer of the Year by the Association of Boxing Journalists on several occasions. Manny was so fierce and powerful in his boxing attacks that Floyd Mayweather even refused to fight with Manny, fearing his defeat. Pacquiao is not only one of the best boxers in the world, but also a big politician - he is currently working as a senator in the Philippines, the country where he was born.

Mike Tyson

At birth, he received the name Michael Gerard, became known to the world under the name Mike Tyson. And now his name is Malik Abdul Aziz. This athlete has won many victories, he won many controversial fights and heavyweight championships. He is the youngest fighter to become a heavyweight champion. He was only 20 years old when he won this title and was declared the youngest boxer by IBF, WBA and WBC.

Tyson is also known in the boxing world for his incredible speed in the ring. He may be underestimated for his contributions to world boxing history, but according to our list, he is one of the three most talented boxers in history. He had 5-6 glorious years in his career, when he beat almost every boxer in the ring. Perhaps he should have ended his career a little earlier in order not to darken his reputation with some scandalous defeats.

Sugar Ray Robinson

Sugar Ray was one of the outstanding fighters, if only because the number one on this list, boxer Mohammed Ali, once stated that Sugar Ray is one of the greatest boxers of his time. Robinson competed in several weight categories, and won champion titles in each. He was called a pound-for-pound fighter.

Robinson has always had a flamboyant life style outside the ring in everyday life, and it is for this reason that he was so famous that even the mafia did not try to cooperate with him. But he is considered one of the top ten boxers due to his excellent boxing skills and physical strength.

Mohammed Ali

Mohammed Ali is not only the best boxer in history, but also a great man. His real name is Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. When he converted to Islam, he changed his name to Muhammad Ali. He was not only physically strong, but also spiritually strong. He was only 12 years old when he started boxing and at the age of 18 he received his first gold medal, which was really a great achievement for a boxer at such a young age.

At that time he was engaged in amateur boxing, and in 1960, when he defeated Tunny Hunsacker, he began his career in professional boxing. It was a great win after 6 rounds. The opponent was also an excellent boxer, but Ali was different from him in that, using brutal attacks, he always relied on cold-blooded calculation to bring down his opponent. And Mohammed Ali is also the author of many quotes about life, sports and human destiny.

Conclusion

This sport is considered very difficult, as boxers have to fight with great courage and patience in order to win. Getting brutal savage punches against your opponent while keeping your cool is very difficult, but in boxing, if you follow this rule, you can emerge victorious from the fight.

Who do you think is the best boxer in the world? You can reply in the comments.

George Foreman, known by the nickname "Big George" (born January 10, 1949) - American boxer, heavyweight champion of the 1968 Olympics, heavyweight champion of the WBC (1973-1974), WBA (1973-1974, 1994) and IBF (1994-1995). He is the oldest world heavyweight champion in boxing history (winning the title at 45) and the most devastating heavyweight champion of all time. In 1997, after a controversial defeat at the hands of Shannon Briggs by decision of the judges, he retired and became a pastor. Has his own church, where he preaches and helps the disadvantaged. In total, Foreman had 81 fights, of which he won 76 (by knockout 68).

Sugar Ray Leonard, nicknamed "Sugar" (born May 17, 1956) - American professional boxer, world welterweight champion (WBC, 1979-1980 and 1980-1982; WBA, 1981-1982), 1st middle (WBA , 1981), middle (WBC, 1987), 2nd middle (WBC, 1988-1989) and light heavy (version WBC, 1988) weight categories. He is the 1976 Olympic champion and one of the strongest boxers of the 80s of the last century. During his professional career, Leonard fought 40 fights, of which he won 36 (by knockout 25), one draw.

Eighth in the ranking of the best boxers of all time goes to Marvin Hagler, nicknamed "Amazing" (born May 23, 1954) - a former American professional boxer, undisputed world champion in the middle weight category (1980-1987). One of the strongest boxers of the 1980s. In 1993 he was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. During his professional career, Hagler had 67 fights, of which he won 62 (by knockout 52), two draws.

Archie Moore, known by the nickname "Old Mongoose" (December 13, 1916 - December 9, 1998) - American professional boxer, two-time world champion in light heavyweight (December 1952-May 1962), one of the boxers with the longest career. He also holds the record for the most knockouts committed in his career (131). Archie Moore was one of the most aggressive boxers of all time, with an extremely heavy right hand. He fought 219 battles, of which he won 185, eleven draws. After completing his career, he trained such famous boxers as Mohammed Ali, George Foreman, James Tillis for a short period of time.

Roy Jones Jr., nicknamed "Superman", "Captain Hook", "Junior" (born January 16, 1969) - famous American professional boxer, world champion in middle (IBF, 1993-1994), second middle (IBF, 1994 -1996), light heavyweight (WBC, 1997, 1997-2002 and 2003-2004; WBA, 1998-2002; IBF, 1999-2002), first heavyweight (WBU, 2013 - present) and heavyweight (WBA, 2003 ) weight categories. Silver medalist at the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games. He is the only boxer in history to start a professional middleweight career and then win a heavyweight title. In the 1990s, he was named the "Boxer of the Decade". During his professional career, Jones fought 71 fights, of which he won 62 (by knockout 45). Besides boxing, he is also known for his musical and acting career.

In fifth place in the list of the best boxers in the world is Joseph Louis Barrow, nicknamed "The Brown Bomber" (May 13, 1914 - April 12, 1981) - American boxer, undisputed world heavyweight champion from 1937 to 1949. He is considered one of the greatest heavyweights of all time, who set a record - he defended his championship belt 25 times (from June 22, 1937 to March 1, 1949). Throughout his career, Joe Louis had 70 fights, of which he won 66 (by knockout 52), one draw.

Julio Cesar Chavez, known by the nicknames "El Leon de Culiacan" and "JC" (born July 12, 1962) - Mexican professional boxer, world champion in the 2nd featherweight (WBC, 1984-1987), lightweight (WBC, 1987 -1988; WBA version, 1988), 1st welterweight (WBC, 1989-1994, 1994-1996; IBF, 1990-1991) weight categories. In 2011 he was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Julio Cesar Chavez is considered the greatest Mexican boxer and one of the greatest boxers of all time. During his professional career, which lasted 25 years, he fought 115 fights, of which he won 107 (86 by knockout), two draws.

Henry Armstrong, nicknamed "Slaughter Hank" (December 12, 1912 - October 22, 1988) - American boxer, world champion in featherweight, light and welterweight. The only boxer to simultaneously hold three championship titles in different weight categories for a short period in 1938. He has defended his title nineteen times at welterweight. Henry Armstrong fought 181 fights during his career, of which he won 150 (101 by knockout), ten draws. After retiring from boxing in 1946, he opened a nightclub.

Mohammed Ali, known by the nickname "The Greatest", "People's Champion" (January 17, 1942 - June 3, 2016) - the legendary American professional boxer, champion of the 1960 Summer Olympics in the light heavyweight division, the absolute world heavyweight champion (1964-1966 , 1974-1978). He is one of the most recognizable and famous boxers in history. Five-time winner of the title "Boxer of the Year" (1963, 1972, 1974, 1975, 1978) and "Boxer of the Decade" (1970s). In 2002 he was awarded a Star of Fame on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. During his professional career, Ali had 61 fights, of which he won 56 (37 by knockout). After completing his sports career, he was engaged in charitable and social activities. Since 1984 he suffered from symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Sugar Ray Robinson, nicknamed "Sugar" (May 3, 1921 - April 12, 1989) - American professional boxer, world champion in welterweight (1946-1950) and middle (1951, 1951-1952, 1955-1957, 1957 and 1958-1960 ) weight categories. In 1990 he was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. According to many journalists, coaches and other fighters, he is considered the greatest boxer of all time. During his professional career, Robinson fought 200 fights, of which he won 173 (108 by knockout), six draws. After leaving boxing, he tried to make a career as an entertainer, but he never succeeded.