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Larry Holmes elected to Boxing Hall of Fame

Larry Holmes–arguably the most underrated heavyweight champion in history–has been elected to the International Boxing Hall of Fame:

Holmes received the ultimate validation of his career Tuesday when he was named to the 2008 induction class of the International Boxing Hall of Fame, joining 11 others boxers and ring personalities chosen by members of the Boxing Writers Association and a panel of international boxing historians.

The “Easton Assassin” will be enshrined as the longest reigning world heavyweight champion in boxing history, holding the title for nearly seven years, 1978-1985. Holmes’ 20 successful heavyweight title defenses were surpassed by only Joe Louis with 25. Holmes was on the verge of matching Rocky Marciano’s perfect 49-0 mark when he was upset by Michael Spinks and suffered his first loss.

A couple of guys who know a thing or two about the sport concur on Holmes’ status as an unappreciated fighter:

“Larry Holmes was probably the most under-appreciated heavyweight champion in history,” said Emanuel Steward, a 1996 Hall of Fame inductee. “He should be right there with Muhammad Ali and Joe Louis, an all around fighter. He would have been a major problem for any heavyweight champion of any era.”

Hall of Fame referee Arthur Mercante also said Holmes was among his top five all-time heavyweights. “He was underrated,” Mercante agreed.

Larry Holmes elected to International Boxing Hall of Fame @ ESPN

[tags]Larry Holmes, International Boxing Hall of Fame, boxing[/tags]

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