ESPN Boxing has been one of the most influential broadcasters of the sport, providing fans with some of the most iconic moments in boxing history. Here are the top ESPN Boxing matches of all time that showcase the greatest fights in the sport.
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The Thrilla in Manila: Muhammad Ali vs. Joe Frazier III
The Thrilla in Manila is considered one of the greatest boxing matches in history. Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier had an intense rivalry, and this fight was the culmination of their bitter feud. The fight was broadcasted by ESPN and is still talked about today.
The Rumble in the Jungle: Muhammad Ali vs. George Foreman
Another iconic match that aired on ESPN was The Rumble in the Jungle. Muhammad Ali fought George Foreman in Zaire, Africa, and it was a historic match that saw Ali defeat Foreman with his rope-a-dope technique.
De La Hoya vs. Trinidad: The Battle of Champions
Oscar De La Hoya and Felix Trinidad faced off in 1999 in one of the most anticipated fights of the year. Both fighters were undefeated champions, and the fight was broadcasted on ESPN. It was a back-and-forth battle that saw Trinidad edge out De La Hoya in a split decision.
Mayweather vs. Pacquiao: The Fight of the Century
In 2015, Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao faced off in what was dubbed as the Fight of the Century. The fight was broadcasted on ESPN and had a record-breaking pay-per-view buy rate. Mayweather won the fight in a unanimous decision, but the event itself was the highlight of the boxing year.
The Battle of the Badges: FDNY vs. NYPD
Not all boxing matches have to be between professional fighters. The Battle of the Badges was a charity event that pitted firefighters from the FDNY against police officers from the NYPD. The fight was broadcasted on ESPN and raised money for charity.
Chavez vs. Taylor: The Fight that Ended Too Soon
In 1990, Julio Cesar Chavez and Meldrick Taylor fought in a highly anticipated match. The fight was broadcasted on ESPN and saw Taylor dominate Chavez in the early rounds. However, Chavez mounted a comeback in the later rounds and knocked out Taylor with only two seconds left in the fight.
Holyfield vs. Tyson II: The Ear-Biting Incident
In 1997, Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson faced off in a highly anticipated rematch. The fight was broadcasted on ESPN and ended in controversy when Tyson bit off a piece of Holyfield’s ear. Despite the bizarre ending, the match remains one of the most-watched events in boxing history.
Hagler vs. Hearns: The Three-Round War
The 1985 fight between Marvelous Marvin Hagler and Thomas Hearns is often referred to as the Three-Round War. The fight was broadcasted on ESPN and saw the two fighters trade blows for three intense rounds. Hagler ultimately emerged victorious in what is considered one of the most exciting fights in boxing history.
Ward vs. Gatti: The Trilogy
Arturo Gatti and Micky Ward had one of the most epic trilogies in boxing history. All three fights were broadcasted on ESPN and showcased the incredible heart and determination of both fighters. The fights were so intense that they are often compared to the Rocky movies.
Mayweather vs. McGregor: The Crossover Fight
In 2017, Floyd Mayweather came out of retirement to face off against UFC superstar Conor McGregor in a crossover fight. The fight was highly anticipated and was broadcasted on ESPN. Despite McGregor’s best efforts, Mayweather emerged victorious, extending his undefeated record to 50-0.
These top ESPN Boxing matches of all time showcase the best and most memorable fights in boxing history. From iconic rivalries and thrilling comebacks to controversial endings and charity events, ESPN Boxing has brought fans some of the most exciting moments in the sport.
The impact of ESPN Boxing on the sport cannot be overstated. The network has broadcasted countless fights, providing fans with unprecedented access to the sport. ESPN Boxing has also helped to elevate the profiles of some of the greatest fighters in history, making household names out of legends like Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, and Oscar De La Hoya.
Furthermore, ESPN Boxing has helped to create new stars in the sport, showcasing up-and-coming fighters and giving them a platform to showcase their skills. With its coverage of both professional and amateur boxing, ESPN has become a major force in the world of combat sports.
conclusion
The top ESPN Boxing matches of all time have left an indelible mark on the sport. These fights have not only entertained fans but have also helped to shape the history of boxing. With the network’s continued commitment to the sport, there is no doubt that ESPN Boxing will continue to produce some of the most memorable and exciting moments in boxing history. learn about Step into the ring with confidence and choose your perfect fighting weight category from our expertly curated selection of boxing weight classes
