Lennox Lewis IBF World Heavyweight Championship Belt

Lennox Lewis’ Triumph: The IBF Championship Belt

A Historic Boxing Rivalry

The legendary clash between Lennox Lewis and Evander Holyfield on March 13, 1999, remains etched in the annals of boxing history. This bout, for the IBF title, was a spectacle of skill and endurance, with Lewis landing more punches and stunning Holyfield multiple times. Despite his dominance, the fight was controversially declared a draw, sparking widespread debate and leading to a rematch on November 13 of the same year. In “Holyfield vs. Lewis II,” Lewis emerged victorious, securing a unanimous decision after 12 intense rounds, and was crowned the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.

The Road to Redemption

Lewis’ reign as the IBF champion saw him successfully defend his title three times before facing Hasim Rahman in South Africa on April 22, 2001. In a dramatic turn of events, Rahman knocked out Lewis in the fifth round, claiming the championship. However, a rematch clause in their contract led to a court-ordered rematch on November 17, 2001, in Las Vegas. “Rahman Lewis II” was a testament to Lewis’ resilience and prowess, as he dominated Rahman from the outset, delivering a devastating two-punch knockout in the fourth round to reclaim his title as the undisputed heavyweight champion.

The Championship Belt: A Symbol of Victory

This exquisite IBF Championship Belt, presented to Lennox Lewis after his triumphant victory over Rahman, is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and a symbol of his indomitable spirit. Measuring approximately 47×11 inches and weighing 7.5 pounds, the belt is a striking piece of sports memorabilia.

• Design: The belt features a highly-detailed center plate adorned with a large eagle, two boxing gloves, and the IBF logo enameled in red, black, and white.
• Adornments: Approximately 187 stones, alternating between synthetic diamonds and rubies, embellish the perimeter of the center plate.
• Additional Features: Two blank 4.5-inch plates with an eagle motif flank the center plate, while a 5×3.5-inch plate on the verso showcases two boxers in relief alongside the IBF logo.
• Signature: The belt bears the facsimile signature of Robert W. Lee, the founder and former President of the IBF.
• Condition: The belt is in NRMT (Near Mint) condition, a testament to its preservation and significance.

A Unique Provenance

This one-of-a-kind item comes directly from Lewis’ second cornerman, Harold “Shadow” Knight, adding a layer of authenticity and historical value. The belt’s impeccable condition and storied background make it a coveted piece for any collector or enthusiast of boxing memorabilia consignment.

For those interested in acquiring a piece of boxing history, this championship belt is not just a symbol of Lennox Lewis’ remarkable career but also a testament to the sport’s enduring legacy. Explore more about this and other exceptional items in our sports memorabilia appraisals and discover the stories behind these iconic artifacts.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.