For many fans, Lennox Lewis has been involved in some of the most favorite moments in boxing history and will always be remembered as one of the best heavyweight boxers, if not the greatest, to ever lace up the gloves.
The Hall of Famer described himself as a “specialist boxer” and was known for his excellent jab and ability to stop opponents once he had worn them down.
He retired in 2003 but remains a prominent voice in the sport and a key figure in the heavyweight division, especially considering that Oleksandr Usyk dethroned him as the last undefeated champion 25 years later.
In an interview with Hoss Magazine, Lewis was asked about the moment in his career that he replays over and over in his mind, and he chose his Olympic performance as a super heavyweight over success in professional boxing.
Despite having the chance to go professional after winning the bronze medal in '84, Lewis chose to play as an amateur for another four years – and it paid off when he won the gold medal.
“There are a lot of moments, but if I had to pick one it would be the Olympics, the ’88 Olympics. I went to the ’84 Olympics and won the bronze medal, losing in the quarterfinals to Tyrell Briggs.
But in the '88 Olympics, I decided I was still young, I had plenty of time, I was in school, let me go to the '88 Olympics, where I'll be better, I'll have more experience, and I'll be able to win a gold medal for Canada.”
Lewis finished with an amateur record of 85-9, turned pro the following year and fought 44 bouts before retiring in 2003. He lost only two bouts, both by knockout, but avenged two losses and knocked out 31 opponents with only one draw.
He had notable wins over the likes of Mike Tyson, Vitali Klitschko, Evander Holyfield and Frank Bruno.
