Larry Holmes

Larry Holmes is a former professional boxer whose nickname, “The Easton Assassin” came from his hometown of Easton, Pennsylvania. Holmes began boxing at 19 years old. Holmes boxed Duane Bobick in the 1972 Olympic Trials where he was dropped in the first round with a right to the head. Holmes turned professional on March 21, 1973 when he won a four-round decision against Rodell Dupree. In his early career, Holmes was a sparring partner for Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, Earnie Shavers, and Jimmy Young. Holmes earned his credibility as a contender when he upset Earnie Shavers in 1978. In his first two title defenses, Holmes easily knocked out Alfredo Evangelista and Ossie Ocasio. During his boxing career, Holmes fought in a title of 75 fights where he won 69, and 44 of those were by knockouts. He only recorded a total of 6 losses. On November 6, 1986, Holmes announced his retirement. Holmes was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2008.