Lennox Lewis vs Evander Holyfield II

On November 13, 1999, at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Lennox Lewis faced Evander Holyfield in a rematch for the WBA, WBC, and IBF World Heavyweight Titles. Their previous encounter in March of the same year had ended controversially in a split draw, prompting this decisive bout.

Standing at 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 242 pounds, Lewis held a record of 34 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw. At 6 feet 2½ inches and 217 pounds, Holyfield entered with a 36-3-1 record. Both fighters were guaranteed $15 million for the rematch.

The fight began with Holyfield adopting an aggressive approach, pressing the action in the early rounds. In the third round, he targeted Lewis's body and landed notable punches, including a significant right hand. Lewis responded with effective jabs and uppercuts, particularly in the fourth round, where he began to find his rhythm.

In the fifth round, an accidental headbutt caused a cut over Lewis's right eye, leading to a brief examination by the ringside doctor. Despite the setback, Lewis maintained his composure and utilised his reach advantage, keeping Holyfield at bay with his jab.

The seventh round was particularly action-packed, with both fighters exchanging heavy blows. Holyfield landed a series of right hands that momentarily wobbled Lewis, but the British fighter's resilience allowed him to withstand the assault.

As the fight progressed into the later rounds, Lewis began to assert control, effectively using his jab and landing power punches that slowed Holyfield's advances. In the championship rounds, Lewis maintained his strategy, while Holyfield's output diminished.

After twelve competitive rounds, the judges decided unanimously in favour of Lennox Lewis, scoring 115-113, 116-112, and 117-111. This victory crowned Lewis as the undisputed heavyweight champion, a title that had been vacant for nearly seven years.

The bout was attended by 17,078 spectators and generated a gate of $16,860,300. TVKO, HBO's pay-per-view company, broadcast it live on pay-per-view and garnered 850,000 buys.

In the aftermath, Lewis expressed satisfaction with his performance, acknowledging the fight's difficulty compared to their first encounter. While disappointed, Holyfield accepted the outcome, and both fighters continued their illustrious careers in the heavyweight division.