Top 7 Most Memorable Knockouts in Boxing History

Boxing is a high-stakes sport that knows how to bring the heat, and nothing says “excitement” like a good old-fashioned knockout! These are the moments that make or break a boxer’s career and leave a lasting impression on their history.

This article will highlight the seven most unforgettable fights in boxing history.

What is a knockout in boxing?

It’s simple! A knockout, also known as a KO, happens when a fighter is unable to continue the match because they’re either badly hurt or they need more time to catch their breath.

It’s different from a technical knockout (TKO), where the referee stops the fight because the fighter is unable to defend themselves.

So, What Is the Most Memorable Knockout in Boxing History?

Everyone has their own personal favorite, but we’ve gathered the 7 most talked-about KOs in the history of boxing. On top of the list is Phil Williams Vs. Brandon Burke.

#1 Phil Williams Vs. Brandon Burke, – 2006

Quick on the draw! Phil Williams stunned boxing fans when he knocked out Brandon Burke in just 10 seconds during their 2006 match.

This lightning-fast KO remains one of the quickest in the history of the sport and cements Williams’ place in the boxing hall of fame.

#2 Buster Douglas Vs. Mike Tyson, – 1990

Buster Douglas pulled off a shocking upset by defeating Mike Tyson with a knockout in 1990. At the time, Tyson (Goliath) was thought to be unbeatable. This was at Tyson’s height when he was training 50 to 60 hours a week (including 500 push-ups a day!)

The knockout had a big effect on both fighters’ careers and legacies.

#3 Muhammed Ali Vs. George Foreman, – 1974

Muhammed Ali sent shockwaves through the world with his knockout over George Foreman in the “Rumble in the Jungle” in 1974. This fight is considered one of the biggest upsets in boxing history and solidified Ali’s place as one of the greatest boxers of all time.

After getting beat up for 7 rounds by Foreman, Muhammad Ali grabbed his head and whispered in his ear, “That all you got, George?” In the eighth round, Alli did the impossible and defeated Foreman.

#4 David Tua Vs. John Ruiz, – 1996

David Tua made a name for himself with his explosive knockout over John Ruiz in 1996. This fight was considered one of the biggest upsets in heavyweight boxing at the time, and Tua’s knockout remains one of the most memorable in boxing history.

#5 Ray Mercer Vs. Tommy Morrison, – 1991

Ray Mercer stunned the world in 1991 with a quick and devastating knockout of Tommy Morrison. This was one of the most highly anticipated heavyweight matchups of the year, and Mercer’s knockout is still considered the creme de la creme in boxing knockouts.

#6 George Foreman Vs. Michael Moorer, – 1994

George Foreman made a stunning comeback with a knockout over Michael Moorer in 1994. This fight cemented Foreman’s legacy as one of the greatest boxers of all time, and his knockout is still considered an epic piece of art.

#7 Cassius Clay Vs. Liston, – 1964

Cassius Clay, later known as Muhammad Ali, stunned the world with his knockout of Sonny Liston in 1964. This fight marked the beginning of Ali’s reign as the greatest heavyweight champion of all time, and his knockout sure is one we’ll never forget!

What is the best knockout in boxing history?

A knockout (KO) in boxing is when a fighter goes down for the count, either because they’re feeling the pain or they can’t get back up.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question “What’s the greatest KO in boxing history?” these punch-outs are considered some of the most unforgettable: Phil Williams vs. Brandon Burke; Buster Douglas vs. Mike Tyson; Muhammed Ali vs. George Foreman.

What impact do memorable knockouts have on a boxer’s career and legacy?

Epic KOs can either turn a fighter into a star or turn out the lights on their boxing career.

A knockout can solidify a fighter’s reputation as a tough and powerful warrior, or it can damage it if it marks the end of its career.

Why do some boxers hit the canvas like a ton of bricks?

It could be a punch to the noggin, especially the jaw or temple, that sends them dreaming. Or, it could be shoddy defense, exhaustion from too many rounds, or a brain that just needs a timeout.

The best thing you can do to prevent a KO is to exercise in different ways, like balancing endurance, strength, and cardio exercises. But most importantly, train your brain. A boxing match is won with your head and not with your muscles (though having muscles can be helpful!)

In the end, let’s also not forget that some folks just naturally have chins made of glass, making them more prone to KOs.

In short…

When it comes to it, knockouts are the best parts of a boxer’s career and can have an effect on their legacy for a long time. t

These seven KOs are just a sampling of the most memorable and meaningful moments in boxing history.