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1978 Larry Holmes WBC Heavyweight World Championship Belt Signed by Holmes

(JSA)(Holmes’ First Championship Belt)(Photomatch)

SOLD FOR $16,698
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613
57
$2,500
19

Larry Holmes’ WBC Heavyweight Championship Belt: A Testament to Boxing Greatness

An Iconic Victory

On September 4, 1978, the world of boxing witnessed a historic moment as Larry Holmes ascended to the pinnacle of his career by clinching the WBC Heavyweight World Championship. This monumental victory took place at the illustrious Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas, where Holmes triumphed over Ken Norton, marking the beginning of an era of dominance in the heavyweight division.

The Belt: A Symbol of Triumph

The WBC Heavyweight Championship belt, a remarkable artifact from this legendary bout, is a testament to Holmes’ prowess and enduring legacy in the sport. Crafted from luxurious green leather, the belt measures an impressive 44 inches in length and weighs 2 pounds. Its centerpiece is a gold-colored plate that proudly reads “WORLD CHAMPION W.B.C,” accompanied by the WBC logo adorned with eight enameled flags in vibrant hues of red, white, blue, yellow, and green.

  • Artist’s Signature: The name “HUGUENIN” is elegantly inscribed on the left edge of the center plate.
  • Branding: The iconic “adidas” logo is prominently displayed along the bottom of the plate.
  • Decorative Medallions: Flanking the center plate are two gold-colored medallions featuring laurelled leaves and the “adidas” logo enameled in green.

A Champion’s Endorsement

Adding to the belt’s allure is Larry Holmes’ own signature, accompanied by the heartfelt inscription, “My original WBC belt.” Executed in bold black marker, the signature is rated a strong 8 overall, underscoring its authenticity and significance. This unique piece is not just a belt; it is a cherished relic from one of boxing’s greatest champions.

Legacy of a Champion

Larry Holmes’ reign as the WBC Heavyweight Champion was nothing short of extraordinary. He successfully defended his title in 17 bouts over five years, showcasing his indomitable spirit and skill. Holmes eventually relinquished the WBC title in December 1983, transitioning to the newly-formed IBF (International Boxing Federation) as its recognized champion.

This one-of-a-kind item is accompanied by a photograph of Holmes signing the belt, as well as a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from JSA for the signature, further cementing its status as a prized collectible in the realm of sports memorabilia auctions.

For enthusiasts and collectors, this belt represents not just a piece of boxing history but a tangible connection to the legacy of Larry Holmes. Whether you are looking to sell sports memorabilia or explore our extensive collection of boxing memorabilia, Grey Flannel Auctions offers an unparalleled platform for acquiring and appreciating such exceptional artifacts.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.

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