Knockout artist Butterbean was one of the most entertaining watches when it came to boxing in the 1990s and early 2000s.
Although he never competed for a world title, Eric Esch, better known as Butterbean, was known as the king of four-round fights.
From Butterbean knocking out WWE stars, to being a guest on reality TV shows, Esch’s contribution to the sport was purely based on entertainment. However, his punching power could not be doubted.
His skillset meant that Butterbean was often paired up with some elite names in terms of fantasy matchups. However, there was one heavyweight legend that Esch did not want to share the ring with despite his feelings towards the fighter.
Butterbean says he has a dislike for former heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield
When speaking to Chris Van Vliet in 2023, Esch was asked if he would ever consider a fight with all-time great, Floyd Mayweather. Although seemingly interested in a bout, the knockout artist said that Mayweather was ultimately too small to share the ring with.
Following this discussion, Butterbean offered an admission of his feelings towards former champion Evander Holyfield.
After saying he had a dislike for Mayweather, Butterbean added, “It’s like Evander Holyfield, I don’t like him as a person.”
There was no additional details as to why Esch has a disliking towards one of the greatest heavyweights of all time. However, he also added that he had no interest in fighting the legend.
Butterbean explains why he doesn’t want to fight Evander Holyfield
Following his comments on Holyfield, Butterbean was asked by the interviewer if he would fight the legend. However, Butterbean said no.
“It wouldn’t be a good fight. He would do what [Larry] Holmes did… He’d run. I want to fight guys who want to fight.”
Butterbean fought Larry Holmes in 2002, with the former world champion winning via unanimous decision. However, Esch is seemingly displeased by the lack of engagement in the fight.
Holyfield himself would also have an unorthodox fight, as he faced former UFC champion Vitor Belfort in 2021. However, it seems unlikely that Esch and Holyfield will meet in the ring at any stage.