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Evander Holyfield’s journey in the boxing world is nothing short of inspiring. Known for his determination, skill, and the infamous ear-biting incident with Mike Tyson, Holyfield has carved out his place in boxing history. In this article, we explore his life, career, net worth, and family.
Overview of Evander Holyfield
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Evander Holyfield |
| Date of Birth | October 19, 1962 |
| Place of Birth | Atmore, Alabama, USA |
| Age | 60 years old (as of 2023) |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (188 cm) |
| Boxing Record | 44 wins (29 by KO), 10 losses, 2 draws, 1 NC |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1 million |
| Spouses | Paulette Bowen (m. 1985; div. 1991), Janice Itson (m. 1996; div. 2000), Candi Calvana Smith (m. 2003; div. 2012) |
| Children | 11 |
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Born on October 19, 1962, in Atmore, Alabama, Evander Holyfield was the youngest of nine children. He discovered boxing at the age of eight and quickly fell in love with the sport. He excelled as an amateur, winning the Boys Club boxing tournament and later representing the United States at the 1984 Summer Olympics, where he won a bronze medal.
Holyfield turned professional later that year at the age of 21. He first competed as a light heavyweight but soon moved up to cruiserweight, where he became the undisputed champion. His power, speed, and relentless work ethic made him a force to be reckoned with.
Heavyweight Success
In 1988, Holyfield moved up to the heavyweight division, and by 1990, he became the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world after defeating Buster Douglas. His tenacity in the ring earned him the nickname “The Real Deal.”
Personal Life and Family
Holyfield has been married three times and has 11 children. Despite his tumultuous personal life, he is a dedicated father and often speaks about the importance of family. He has faced financial troubles in the past, but he continues to be active in various charitable initiatives.
Infamous Fight with Mike Tyson
One of Holyfield’s most famous fights was against Mike Tyson in 1997, known as the “Bite Fight.” Holyfield won after Tyson was disqualified for biting Holyfield’s ear. This incident remains one of the most talked-about moments in boxing history.
Legacy and Impact on Boxing
Holyfield is the only four-time world heavyweight champion, having won the WBA, WBC, and IBF titles. He is celebrated for his resilience, his ability to compete at the highest level across different weight classes, and his willingness to take on all challengers. His impact on boxing is undeniable, and he is considered one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.
Net Worth and Life After Boxing
Holyfield’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million as of 2023. His earnings from boxing were once substantial, but financial missteps and costly divorces significantly impacted his wealth. Today, he is involved in various business ventures and continues to be a prominent figure in the world of sports.
FAQs about Evander Holyfield
- When was Evander Holyfield born?
- October 19, 1962.
- Where is Evander Holyfield from?
- Atmore, Alabama, USA.
- What is Evander Holyfield’s net worth?
- Estimated $1 million.
- How tall is Evander Holyfield?
- 6 ft 2 in (188 cm).
- What is Evander Holyfield’s boxing record?
- 44 wins (29 by KO), 10 losses, 2 draws, 1 NC.
- How many times has Evander Holyfield been married?
- Three times.
- Does Evander Holyfield have children?
- Yes, he has 11 children.
- What are some of Evander Holyfield’s notable fights?
- His fights against Mike Tyson, Riddick Bowe, and Lennox Lewis.
- What happened in the Evander Holyfield vs. Mike Tyson fight?
- Tyson was disqualified for biting Holyfield’s ear.
- What weight classes have Evander Holyfield competed in?
- Light heavyweight, cruiserweight, and heavyweight.
- Has Evander Holyfield faced any financial troubles?
- Yes, despite his successful boxing career, he has faced financial challenges.
- Is Evander Holyfield involved in charity work?
- Yes, he is active in various charitable initiatives.
- What is Evander Holyfield’s legacy in boxing?
- He is celebrated as a four-time world heavyweight champion and one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.
- Does Evander Holyfield have any nicknames?
- Yes, he is known as “The Real Deal.”
- What is Evander Holyfield doing now?
- He is involved in various business ventures and remains a prominent figure in the sports world.
Conclusion
Evander Holyfield’s journey from a small town in Alabama to the pinnacle of boxing exemplifies hard work, resilience, and determination. His legacy as a four-time world heavyweight champion and his remarkable ability to face any challenger head-on have solidified his place in boxing history.
