Earnie Shavers

Earnie Shavers, known by his nickname "The Black Destroyer," was born on August 31, 1944, in Garland, Alabama, and is considered one of the hardest punchers in boxing history. His professional boxing career spanned more than 26 years, from 1969 to 1995, and he had an impressive record of 74 wins, 14 losses, and one draw, with 68 of his wins coming by way of knockout.

Shavers made his professional debut against Silas Howell on November 6, 1969, at the age of 25, defeating him via a first-round TKO. He fought his first world title bout at the age of 33, on September 29, 1977, against the legendary Muhammad Ali, for the WBA, WBC, and The Ring titles. Though Shavers put up a good fight, Ali won via a 15-round unanimous decision.

Despite being unable to win a world title, Shavers proved his worth inside the ring, with notable victories over Hall-of-Famers Ken Norton, Joe Bugner, Jimmy Ellis, Vicente Rondón, and Jimmy Young.

Shavers had a total of 14 losses in his professional boxing career, two of them in title bouts and 12 in non-title bouts, with seven of those losses coming by way of knockout. His first loss was against Stan Johnson, via a four-round unanimous decision on November 13, 1969. For more details about his defeats, refer to "All of Earnie Shavers' losses."

Shavers' last professional fight was a non-title bout against Brian Yates on November 24, 1995, when he was 51 years old. Shavers lost via a second-round knockout and retired from professional boxing with a record of 74-14-1.

Earnie Shavers' power was thrilling to watch inside the ring. With a powerful right hand, he was able to knock out some of the best fighters in boxing history. Still, what sets Shavers apart is his sportsmanship and character outside the ring. He has always been respected by his peers in the sport and is known for his kindness and willingness to help others.

Shavers' professional boxing career has left an indelible mark on the sport, and his legacy continues to inspire aspiring boxers worldwide. His 68 knockout wins speak to his tremendous punching power and formidable skills as a heavyweight boxer.

In conclusion, Earnie Shavers' career as a professional boxer was undoubtedly one for the books. He was a hardworking fighter with an impressive record, and his knockout power was one of the most recognizable features of his career. Despite the losses he suffered, Shavers' competitiveness and sportsmanship have remained an inspiration to many. He is a true legend, and his legacy will forever remain a significant part of boxing history.

Earnie Shavers Fight Record