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Evander "The Real Deal" Holyfield, a name synonymous with boxing greatness, left an indelible mark on the sport during the 1980s and 90s. Stepping into the heavyweight division, Holyfield faced formidable opponents like Mike Tyson, Lennox Lewis, and George Foreman, etching his legacy in the annals of boxing history. Let's embark on a journey through the remarkable career of The Real Deal.

Evander Holyfield's journey to boxing stardom began in the Bowen Homes Housing Projects of Atlanta, Georgia. The youngest of nine siblings, Holyfield was introduced to the boxing ring at a tender age of seven. Standing at just 5-foot-8, 147 pounds when he graduated from Fulton High School in 1980, Holyfield's physical stature was dwarfed by what he would eventually become – a towering 6-foot-2 heavyweight champion.

Like many boxing legends, Holyfield honed his skills in the amateur ranks. His amateur career was nothing short of spectacular, amassing a record of 160 wins and only 14 losses. Impressively, 76 of those victories came by way of knockout. These early triumphs were just a glimpse of what Holyfield would achieve on the professional stage.

In 1984, Holyfield represented the United States at the Los Angeles Olympics in the light heavyweight division. Despite earning a Bronze medal, his journey was marred by a controversial disqualification. Holyfield's knockout of Kevin Barry was executed a split second after the referee's command to stop, leading to his disqualification. Nevertheless, he won the hearts of Americans with his valiant effort, offering a glimpse of The Real Deal's potential.

Holyfield transitioned into the professional ranks in 1984 as a light heavyweight, swiftly claiming victory in his debut against Lionel Byarm. After a 4-0 start, he ascended to the cruiserweight division. His defining moment came on July 12, 1986, when he faced WBA Cruiserweight Champion Dwight Muhammad Qawi in his hometown of Atlanta. In a hard-fought battle that went the distance, Holyfield emerged victorious by decision, becoming the new champion. This victory catapulted him into the limelight and earned him the nickname "The Real Deal."

Holyfield's journey through the cruiserweight division was marked by dominance. He unified the cruiserweight belts by defeating formidable opponents such as Mike Brothers, Henry Tillman, Ricky Parkey, Ossie Ocasio, and a rematch with Dwight Muhammad Qawi. His crowning achievement in the cruiserweight division came after defeating Carlos de Leon for the WBC title. This triumph marked the end of his cruiserweight journey, as he set his sights on the heavyweight division.

With his cruiserweight legacy secured, Holyfield embarked on a remarkable journey to the heavyweight division. His goal was clear: to challenge and conquer the reigning heavyweight champion, Mike Tyson, and establish himself as a dominant force among the heavyweights. The boxing world took notice.

With Mike Tyson being away from boxing and their initial fight having been cancelled Evander Holyfield, who had won the title from Buster Douglas took on Heavyweight Boxing legend George Foreman and won a clear decision. Holyfield operated at the highest levels of the division in the early 90's facing such Heavyweight Boxer as Bert Cooper, Riddick Bowe, Michael Moorer and a comebacking Larry Holmes.

The highly anticipated showdown between Holyfield and Tyson finally took place on November 6, 1996. Titled "Finally," the fight lived up to its name. These two fierce competitors, fueled by their mutual disdain, engaged in a brutal war of attrition. In front of a packed crowd at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, Holyfield achieved the unthinkable by defeating Tyson via TKO in the 11th round. The victory earned him the WBA title and secured his legacy as one of boxing's all-time greats.

A rematch with Tyson was inevitable, and it occurred six months later. However, this fight would be forever etched in boxing history for controversial reasons. In the third round, Holyfield inadvertently headbutted Tyson, triggering a shocking response. In the final minute of that round, Tyson infamously bit off a portion of Holyfield's ear. Chaos ensued, and Tyson was disqualified. There would be no trilogy between these fierce rivals.

Following the Tyson saga, Holyfield's journey continued with battles against formidable opponents like Lennox Lewis and John Ruiz. Although he faced challenges and defeats, Holyfield's warrior mentality endeared him to fans worldwide. He achieved unprecedented success, becoming a four-time heavyweight champion.

Evander Holyfield's illustrious career came to an end in 2011, with a victory over Brian Nielsen at the age of 48. He retired as one of the most accomplished boxers in history, leaving a legacy that few can rival. Holyfield's unwavering determination, ability to overcome adversity, and willingness to take on any challenge define him as a true icon in the world of boxing.

In reflecting on his career, Holyfield stated, "I made sure I fought everyone that I thought was going to be anything. I fought 'em all." This commitment to facing the best of his era solidified his status as a boxing legend, and his name will forever be synonymous with greatness in the sport.

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