Oliver McCall

Oliver McCall is a name that strikes a chord with boxing enthusiasts around the world. Known as "The Atomic Bull," the retired American heavyweight professional boxer had a career spanning over 33 years, starting from 1985 to 2019. McCall burst onto the scene, demolishing Lou Bailey in the first round of his debut match on November 2, 1985, and destined to become one of boxing's most feared heavyweights. Standing at 6 ft 2 in (188 cm) and holding an 82 in (208 cm) reach, McCall's talent in the ring was undeniable. He worked his way up the heavyweight ranks slowly and surely, taking on a mix of formidable contenders and experienced veterans. His trainer at the time was the legendary Joe Frazier, who also acted as his first cornerman. Oliver McCall's boxing record includes a total of 75 fights, with an impressive 59 wins and 38 knockouts. He was undone 14 times in the ring, including one loss via knockout, and suffered two no-contests during his career without having any draws to his name. During his professional tenure, McCall has claimed two world titles, one in 1994 and another in 1997, both in the heavyweight category. McCall's first world title fight was against Lennox Lewis on September 24, 1994, after 29 fights, all of which he won. The fight was for the WBC heavyweight title. Although McCall was considered an underdog, he had an impressive showing, with his signature counter right hand knocking Lewis down in the second round. McCall proceeded to pummel Lewis with hard punches, forcing the referee to end the fight and crown McCall the new WBC heavyweight world champion. McCall's career highlights include his victory over Larry Holmes in which he successfully defended the WBC heavyweight title in 1995. However, McCall eventually lost his world title to Frank Bruno later that year. Notably, his victories over Lance Whitaker, Oleg Maskaev, and Bruce Seldon were memorable moments in his career. Through all his successes, McCall's mental health struggles came to the fore on an infamous night in 1997, during his rematch against Lennox Lewis. During the fourth and fifth rounds of the fight, McCall refused to fight and started crying, much to the confusion of the crowd and media. The referee stopped the fight, awarding the victory to Lewis. McCall later spoke about the incident, citing depression and other factors that had contributed to his mental state on that night. McCall's boxing career wasn't always smooth sailing as he faced some tough opponents like Mike Hunter and Buster Douglas in 1988 and 1989. His first loss came against Joey Christjohn via four-round unanimous decision on December 6, 1985. Although he had won two world titles, he suffered twelve losses in non-title bouts and two in title clashes. One of McCall's defining features was his devastating punching power, which saw him KO 38 of his opponents during his professional career. Similarly, his defensive skills were top-notch, with the fighter accusing some other boxers of not being hard hitters. Despite the controversies and the occasional mental breakdown in the ring, McCall's career was a testament to his determination, toughness, and skill as a heavyweight boxer. His career spanned over three decades, during which he established himself as one of the greatest heavyweight boxers to have ever laced up gloves. Today, McCall is retired, but it's impossible to forget the atomic force that he brought to the ring. He has left behind a legacy that will be forever embedded in the annals of boxing history, a testament to his intense passion for the sport and his unwavering fighting spirit.

Oliver McCall Fight Record