Chris Byrd

Chris Byrd, an American retired professional boxer, had a remarkable career that spanned over 16 years. Byrd made his professional boxing debut in 1993 and had an impressive record of 41 wins, 5 losses, and 1 draw. He won 22 fights via knockout, had 2 world titles, and made three title defenses.

Byrd's professional debut was against Gary Smith, defeating him via unanimous decision in a six-round match. Impressed with his performance, Byrd went on to win 25 consecutive matches, including 14 wins via stoppage, which is a feat in itself. Byrd's swift movement and footwork helped him to win many of these fights.

On April 1, 2000, Byrd faced Vitali Klitschko for the WBO heavyweight title. It was his 31st professional fight, and he was 29 years old. Despite being an underdog, Byrd managed to stun Klitschko and defeat him via 9th round RTD. With this victory, Byrd became the heavyweight champion of the world for the first time in his career.

Byrd's world titles included the IBF heavyweight title and the WBO heavyweight title. On December 14, 2002, he defeated Evander Holyfield for the IBF heavyweight title. He won this fight via 12 round unanimous decision. During his career, Byrd also defended his titles three times and won via KO in one of them.

Byrd faced off against some of the biggest names in boxing and emerged victorious. His victories over Hall-of-Famers Evander Holyfield and Vitali Klitschko, David Tua, Jameel McCline, and Jose Ribalta are all highlight reels not to be missed.

Throughout his career, Byrd had five losses, including two in title bouts and three in non-title fights. It was Ike Ibeabuchi who defeated Byrd in his 27th professional fight via 5th round TKO, and ended a 26-fight win streak. Of his five losses, four were via knockout and one was via decision.

Byrd's most recent professional appearance was a non-title fight against Matthias Sandow on March 21, 2009, which he won via a 4th round TKO. Byrd retired from professional boxing with a record of 41-5-1, taking with him a legacy that few can match.

Aside from his impressive boxing record, Byrd was a remarkable person who has been an inspiration to many young boxers. He didn't have the imposing size or brute strength typical of heavyweight champions, but his quick reflexes and footwork made him an elusive opponent. His approach to the sport was humane, and he always maintained a sense of sportsmanship even during some of his most grueling bouts.

To sum it up, Chris Byrd is an accomplished boxer, a man of immense character, and an inspiration to many young boxers.

Chris Byrd Fight Record