Ageless Triumph: Evander Holyfield’s Epic Comeback Against Francois Botha

On Saturday, April 10, 2010, Evander Holyfield faced Francois Botha for the vacant WBF strap, after around 18 months out of the ring following a majority decision defeat to Nikolai Valuev. “The Real Deal” entered the ring at the Thomas & Mack Center, Paradise, Nevada as a 47-year-old aiming to prove that age aint nothing but a number. Despite his advancing years, Holyfield’s class shone through, and Big Fight Weekend wanted to take you back to that night in Las Vegas.

Evander Holyfield Defies Inactivity Against Francois Botha

Evander Holyfield vs. Francois Botha Recapped

Holyfield started the contest slower than his opponent, with Botha content to hit and hold, which worked well for the South African during the first three rounds. Botha seemingly hurt Holyfield, but the American began to pick his punches well and gain control of the fight after his initial struggles.

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In the seventh round “The Real Deal” stunned the South African fighter with a short left hand, before forcing a knockdown in the following round, which came from a beautifully timed right hand. Despite beating the count, Holyfield sensed a stoppage was near and unloaded a flurry of big punches, which forced referee Russell Mora to stop the bout.

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Holyfield had defied age and inactivity to make a triumphant return to the ring. At the time of the stoppage, “The Real Deal” was behind on the two judges’ cards, which both read 67–66, with the third card reading 69–64 for the American fighter.

Evander Holyfield Strengths

Holyfield throughout his career, showcased an incredible will to win, which he showed again against Botha. “The Real Deal” had a great chin and was known for his work rate and signature hooks, which folded many opponents during his career. He was involved in many memorable clashes against greats such as Mike Tyson and Lennox Lewis. “The Real Deal” will be forever remembered as one of the greats.