Former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes believes none of today's biggest names would have been able to defeat him in his prime. The boxing legend has claimed he would have beaten unified champion Oleksandr Usyk, along with Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, insisting the current generation lacks the toughness of the heavyweights from his era.
Holmes remains one of the most accomplished champions in boxing history after dominating the heavyweight division between 1978 and 1985. His latest comments have already sparked fresh boxing debate as fans continue comparing champions from different generations.
Holmes backs himself against every modern heavyweight
Known for one of the finest jabs the sport has ever seen, Holmes successfully defended the heavyweight world title 19 times during his reign. Victories over Ken Norton, Earnie Shavers and several top contenders cemented his reputation as one of the greatest heavyweight champions of all time.
The American also recorded a controversial stoppage victory over Muhammad Ali in 1980 before eventually losing his unbeaten record against Michael Spinks. Although Mike Tyson later stopped Holmes in their 1988 contest, many observers believed the former champion was well beyond his peak by that stage.
Despite the rise of modern champions such as Usyk, Fury and Joshua, Holmes remains convinced that none of them would have matched him at his very best.
The 15 round era is central to Holmes' argument
Explaining his reasoning, Holmes pointed to the demands of championship boxing during his career, when world title fights were contested over 15 rounds rather than the current limit of 12.
"I don't think today's fighters have the heart of the guys from the 70s and 80s. We had determination and willpower to go out there for 15 rounds."
He continued by adding, "Today's fighters could never have done 15 rounds. I believe I would have beat them all. I was always ready. Every fight was like the last serious one."
Holmes believes that mentality would have been enough to overcome even Oleksandr Usyk, whose stamina and ring intelligence have become defining features of his reign as unified heavyweight champion.
Could Holmes really have beaten Usyk?
Comparing heavyweight champions from different eras has always been one of boxing's favourite discussions. Holmes possessed an outstanding jab, exceptional durability and remarkable consistency throughout his championship reign. Usyk, meanwhile, has built his legacy through elite footwork, tactical discipline and victories over Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury and Daniel Dubois.
While Holmes believes the longer championship distance would have favoured him, there is no definitive answer. Usyk has repeatedly demonstrated an ability to adapt during fights, while Holmes competed in an era with different rules, training methods and styles.
The debate is likely to continue among the boxing community, particularly as both men feature prominently whenever fans discuss the greatest heavyweight champions in boxing history.
What Happens Next
Usyk remains focused on extending his legacy as one of the finest heavyweights of the modern era, while Holmes continues to defend the achievements of his generation. Comparisons between champions from different eras will never be settled inside the ring, but they remain one of the biggest talking points in boxing history. Boxing Wiretap will continue bringing the latest boxing news, expert boxing analysis and reaction from the sport's biggest names.