1982 Larry Holmes WBC Heavyweight World Championship Belt Signed by Holmes & WBC President Jose Sulaiman

The Legendary WBC Heavyweight World Championship Belt of Larry Holmes

An Iconic Symbol of Boxing Excellence

In the annals of boxing history, few items carry the weight and prestige of the WBC Heavyweight World Championship Belt awarded to Larry Holmes. This illustrious belt, dating back to 1982, marks a pivotal moment in Holmes’ illustrious career when he successfully defended his title against Gerry Cooney at the famed Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Holmes, a dominant force in the ring, held the WBC title from June 1978 until December 1988, a testament to his enduring prowess and skill.

A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship

The belt itself is a masterpiece, crafted from green leather and measuring approximately 45 inches in length, weighing 3.5 lbs. Its centerpiece is a brass plate inscribed with “WORLD CHAMPION W.B.C.” encircling the W.B.C. logo in relief. The plate is adorned with the enameled flags of 79 nations, symbolizing the global reach and significance of the championship. The words “WORLD CHAMPION” are embellished with approximately 300 small round-cut diamonds, while “W.B.C.” features 43 diamonds and 22 rubies. The crown below is adorned with 11 rubies and 30 diamonds, culminating in a total gem weight of three carats.

Historical Significance and Provenance

• Presentation: The belt was presented to Holmes on July 20, 1982, in the Hall of Fame Room at Madison Square Garden by WBC President Jose Sulaiman.
• Notable Features: Adjacent to the center plate are two brass medallions featuring Joe Louis and Muhammad Ali, each enameled in black and connected by a chain.
• Signatures: Holmes has signed the belt near the Louis medallion, and the verso bears the signature of WBC President Jose Sulaiman, with embossed text listing previous and current WBC Champions.

This belt is not merely a piece of sports memorabilia; it is a relic of boxing history, representing the legacy of one of the greatest fighters of all time. Accompanied by a framed 16” x 20” color photo of Holmes holding the belt in New York in 1988, a wire photo from the day he received it, and a Letter of Authenticity from JSA, this item is a treasure for any collector.

A Legacy of Dominance

Larry Holmes’ reign as WBC Heavyweight Champion is marked by 17 successful title defenses over five years, a feat that underscores his dominance in the sport. His decision to relinquish the WBC title in 1988 to accept the International Boxing Federation’s Heavyweight title further cements his status as a boxing legend. This belt is a testament to Holmes’ enduring legacy and the indelible mark he left on the sport.

For those interested in acquiring a piece of boxing history, this belt is an unparalleled opportunity. It stands as a symbol of excellence, resilience, and the storied career of Larry Holmes. Explore more about our consignment opportunities and discover other remarkable items in our football memorabilia auctions and basketball memorabilia auctions.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.