On April 19, 1991, two heavyweight legends came together. Evander Holyfield vs George Foreman took place for the WBA, WBC, and IBF heavyweight titles. In a resurfaced video, Holyfield spoke to Vlad TV, reflecting on his war with Big George, while revealing just how strong Foreman was.
Evander Holyfield vs George Foreman: The Battle of the Ages
Holyfield Reflects on Foreman Battle
Hollyfield had just beaten Buster Douglas and agreed to give Big George his shot at glory. Foreman had been in great form since coming out of retirement, albeit against opposition of a lower class than Holyfield.
“Big George” tried to punch between Holyfield’s shots, but “The Real Deal” was slick throughout and moved well while picking his shots. Round 7 was action-packed with Foreman landing a big right hand, which gave him his best moment of the fight. Holyfield recovered well and staggered “Big George” as the round wore on.
Foreman was competitive throughout with his power, making him a live threat. Despite his toughness, Holyfield was just too slick, and was first to the punch at the key moments. “The Real” ultimately won by unanimous decision, 116-111, 115-112 and 117-110.
In the resurfaced video, Holyfield was asked whether he thought the fight would be easy, with Foreman 14 years Holyfield’s senior: “His strength was his everything,” said Holyfield.
Revealing his thinking at the time, Holyfield said: “He’s slow as Christmas. He’s not fast. He throws these big shots.
“But the difference is that he got good timing,” added Holyfield, still reminiscing.
“He was a good, disciplined fighter,” added Holyfield.
Evander Holyfield vs George Foreman: Power Had Holyfield Checking His Teeth
When asked about the strength of Foreman, The Real Deal said: “He kind of malled me in the corner a lot. I couldn’t even get out he was so much stronger.”
He was also reminded about saying he’d never been hit harder in his life than by Foreman and Holyfield agreed: “Yes,”also backing up the story that he went back to his corner in between the rounds to ask if all his teeth were still in his mouth.
The passing of George Foreman was announced on March 21, 2025, by his family, and the boxing world mourned the death of a heavyweight legend. The legacy of “Big George” will live on for many generations.
