Lennox Lewis

Lennox Lewis

Lennox Claudius Lewis was born in Stratford, London on 2 September 1965 to Jamaican parents. Lewis made his professional debut at The Royal Albert Hall, in England on June 27, 1989 and proceeded to seize 20 victories - 17 being by straight knockouts. While focusing on his career as a boxer, Lewis decided to put something back into the community and in 1994/5 opened up The Lennox Lewis College in east London. He wanted to create opportunities for young black people, especially males, whose inherent talent often went unrecognised. Unfortunately it has recently closed due to lack of support from the appropriate authorities. However, during its lifespan a number of young people benefited from being associated with it. His illustrious career heightened, when in March 1999 he fought Evander Holyfield to gain the three international title belts. The fight was declared a draw, which was seen as a travesty by most of the boxing fraternity, including Lewis himself. On 13 November 1999 he defeated Holyfield. Finally his quest to unify all three championship titles - the IBF, WBA and WBC - had been attained, making Lewis the second British born boxer in 100 years to hold all three belts. In recognition, Lewis has been awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of North London for his services not only to sport but also the community in the education of disadvantaged young people. Regarded as the corporate world's 'most wanted' endorser, he recently launched his own line in fashion wear. Along with Muhammad Ali and Rocky Marciano, Lewis's name is recognised the world over.

stories,westindians

1956-09-02

Person

6197

TEXT

Lennox

Lewis