‘The Entertainer’ Johnny Nelson had a career filled with highs and lows before ending his journey on top of the sport.
Retiring with a professional record of 45-12, Nelson lost to Corrie Sanders, who shocked Wladimir Klitschko, Adilson Rodrigues, and other worthy competitors.
However, before hanging up his gloves in 2005, Nelson had significant success in his career. Competing in both the heavyweight and cruiserweight divisions, the now-broadcaster had an impressive ending to his career.
Johnny Nelson claimed first world title in 21-fight unbeaten streak
The last loss of Nelson’s career would come in 1995, 10 years before his final ever fight. Losing to Rodrigues for the second time, Nelson’s professional record was 25-12-1. However, he would start to turn around his form in 1996.
Taking on Tony Booth in January 1996, a second-round knockout would be the first of 21 fights where Nelson did not taste defeat.
Winning another five fights in a row, ‘The Entertainer’ would get another world title opportunity. Nelson would challenge Carl Thompson for the WBO World Cruiserweight title in March 1999.
Thompson had just defeated Chris Eubank in back-to-back fights to defend his title, and would meet Nelson in Derby. After having success in the opening four rounds, Nelson would be able to find the finish in the fifth round.
The win would make Nelson a world champion for the first time after 45 fights.
‘The Entertainer’ would be able to carry his good form with him for the rest of his career. Fighting 14 more times after claiming the title, Nelson would retain the belt in every bout.
Winning 13 of those fights, Nelson had one draw against Guillermo Jones. His final fight came in November 2005, defeating Vincenzo Cantatore. Retiring after the bout, Nelson would leave the sport a champion.
- READ MORE: Johnny Nelson reveals Tyson Fury sparring story that ended in confrontation with John Fury
Johnny Nelson started his career with three losses
Despite going on to become a world champion, Nelson’s career did not get off to the smoothest start.
Making his debut in 1986, a 19-year-old Nelson would not have the dream start to his career. Facing Peter Brown (0-0-1), Nelson lost his first fight on points.
It would be the first of three decision losses for Nelson to begin his career. Losses to Tommy Taylor (11-0-1) and Magne Havnaa (0-0) would see ‘The Entertainer’ with a record of 0-3.
Nelson would bounce back from the losing streak with four wins before tasting defeat for a fourth time in 1987. However, Nelson would eventually find consistent form towards the end of his career.