Larry Holmes's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 22, 2025

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Larry Holmes.

Larry Holmes, an American former professional boxer, reigned as the world heavyweight champion from 1978 to 1985. Widely regarded as one of boxing's all-time heavyweight greats, Holmes boxed professionally from 1973 to 2002. Known as "the Easton Assassin" due to his upbringing in Easton, Pennsylvania, he distinguished himself with his jab and overall boxing skills, securing a prominent place in boxing history.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

March 21, 1973: Professional Debut

On March 21, 1973, Larry Holmes made his professional boxing debut, winning against Rodell Dupree.

March 1978: Upset Victory Over Earnie Shavers

In March 1978, Larry Holmes gained credibility by defeating Earnie Shavers in a unanimous decision.

1978: World Heavyweight Champion

In 1978, Larry Holmes became the world heavyweight champion.

1978: Victory for WBC Championship

In 1978, Larry Holmes defeated Ken Norton to win the WBC championship.

June 22, 1979: Title Defense Against Mike Weaver

On June 22, 1979, Larry Holmes defended his title against Mike Weaver, winning by a TKO in the twelfth round.

September 28, 1979: Rematch with Earnie Shavers

On September 28, 1979, Larry Holmes had a rematch with Earnie Shavers, winning by TKO in the eleventh round after recovering from a knockdown.

October 2, 1980: Victory Over Muhammad Ali

On October 2, 1980, Larry Holmes defended his title against Muhammad Ali, winning by TKO in the tenth round and earning recognition as World Heavyweight Champion by The Ring.

April 11, 1981: Title Defense Against Trevor Berbick

On April 11, 1981, Larry Holmes successfully defended his title against Trevor Berbick by going the distance in a decision win.

November 6, 1981: Victory Over Renaldo Snipes

On November 6, 1981, Larry Holmes defeated Renaldo Snipes by TKO in the eleventh round.

May 20, 1983: Title Defense Against Tim Witherspoon

On May 20, 1983, Larry Holmes defended his title against Tim Witherspoon, retaining it by a disputed split decision.

September 10, 1983: WBC Title Defense Against Scott Frank

On September 10, 1983, Larry Holmes successfully defended the WBC title for the sixteenth time against Scott Frank.

November 9, 1984: First Defense of IBF Title

On November 9, 1984, Larry Holmes made his first defense of the IBF title, stopping James "Bonecrusher" Smith.

1985: Title Defense Against David Bey

In 1985, Larry Holmes stopped David Bey in ten rounds for his 19th title defense.

February 7, 1992: Upset Victory Over Ray Mercer

On February 7, 1992, Larry Holmes defeated Ray Mercer by a unanimous decision.

June 18, 1999: Rematch with Bonecrusher Smith

On June 18, 1999, Larry Holmes stopped "Bonecrusher" Smith in eight rounds in a rematch.

November 17, 2000: Rematch with Mike Weaver

On November 17, 2000, Larry Holmes stopped Mike Weaver in six rounds in a rematch.

July 27, 2002: Final Fight

On July 27, 2002, Larry Holmes's final fight took place in Norfolk, Virginia, where he defeated Eric "Butterbean" Esch in a 10-round unanimous decision.