Lennox Lewis has had plenty of wins in his career that can be considered some of the greatest heavyweight performances of all time.
From Lewis getting revenge on Mike Tyson’s sucker punch to avenging the only two losses in his career, ‘The Lion’ is truly one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.
Retiring with a 41-2-1 record, Lewis’ last fight against Vitali Klitschko would see him retire as a world champion.
Although other opponents such as Oliver McCall, Evander Holyfield, and Frank Bruno are considered some of the best wins of his career, it was another bout that Lewis described as his ‘most satisfying.’
Lennox Lewis says Hasim Rahman victory is his most satisfying win
Speaking on The Joe Rogan Experience, the host asked the former champion what the most satisfying win in his career was.
Without hesitation, Lewis said, “Hasim Rahman.”
“What really bothered me is the fact I gave him an opportunity [in the first fight]. I gave him a fight when I’m basically waiting for [Mike] Tyson. I have to keep busy,” Lewis said.
The heavyweight would add that he chose Rahman due to his durability, and that he wanted to give fans a more entertaining show as opposed to a quick fight.
Lewis and Rahman met for the first time in South Africa in April 2001, with ‘The Lion’ losing his WBC, IBF, and IBO World Heavyweight titles via knockout in round five.
However, as Lewis listened to Nelson Mandela’s advice, he was able to get revenge in the rematch. When the two met seven months later, Lewis won the fight via fourth-round knockout after going through a legal battle.
Lennox Lewis had to take legal action for Hasim Rahman rematch
Following Lewis’ loss to Rahman, he sought an immediate rematch with the heavyweight to claim his title back. However, Rahman wanted to pursue other opponents after signing with promoter Don King.
Lewis then took Rahman to court, as he wanted his rival to honor the rematch clause that was included in the contract for their first meeting.
The court’s ruling meant Rahman was ordered to rematch Lewis, or else he would not be able to defend his world title against anyone else for 18 months. Then, the two met for the second time just seven months after their first fight.