A boxer who pulled off one of the greatest upsets in sports history by defeating Mike Tyson for the heavyweight title, and later appeared in films and TV shows.
On February 11, 1990, a monumental upset rocked the boxing world when James "Buster" Douglas defeated Mike Tyson, the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, in the 10th round by knockout. This historic victory propelled Douglas to international fame, earning him the reputation as one of the greatest underdog stories in sports history.
Born on April 7, 1960, in Columbus, Ohio, Douglas grew up in a boxing family. His father, William "Dynamite" Douglas, was a professional boxer who introduced James to the sport at a young age. Douglas attended Linden McKinley High School, where he excelled in football and basketball, leading the school to a state basketball championship in 1977.
Douglas debuted as a professional boxer on May 31, 1981, defeating Dan O'Malley in a four-round bout. Managed by former Ohio State University assistant football coach John Johnson, Douglas won his first five fights, setting the tone for a promising career.
On February 11, 1990, Douglas faced off against the intimidating Mike Tyson, a 42-1 favorite to win. Douglas, a 29-4-1 underdog, was given little chance of victory. However, he stunned the boxing world by knocking out Tyson in the 10th round, becoming the new undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.
Douglas's upset victory over Tyson earned him the WBC, WBA, and IBF titles, making him the first boxer to hold all three belts simultaneously. He reigned as the world heavyweight champion for eight months, defending his title against Evander Holyfield in October 1990.
Douglas's remarkable victory over Tyson inspired countless underdogs around the world, demonstrating that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible. His legacy extends beyond the boxing ring, serving as a beacon of hope for those facing insurmountable odds.
After retiring from boxing in 1999, Douglas returned to Columbus, Ohio, where he continues to run his father's gym at the Blackburn Recreation Center. He has been involved in various charitable initiatives, including working with underprivileged youth and supporting local boxing programs.
Douglas's incredible journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit. His legacy continues to inspire generations of boxers and individuals worldwide, cementing his place as one of the greatest underdogs in sports history.
59 Years Old
A former professional boxer and entertainer, known for his formidable punching power and controversial behavior in and out of the ring.
63 Years Old
A legendary boxer and actor, known for holding the undisputed championship in both cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions, and starring in various films and TV shows.
58 Years Old
Former undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, known for his formidable punching power and dominant reign in the early 1990s.
77 Years Old
A two-time heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist, known for his formidable punching power and iconic grill brand.
76 Years Old
A legendary boxer who held the heavyweight title for seven years, known for his impressive boxing record and charismatic personality.
69 Years Old
Former undisputed light heavyweight and heavyweight champion, holding both titles simultaneously in 1985, and being the brother of Leon Spinks.
Born in 1921
A legendary boxer who dominated the sport with lightning-quick reflexes and devastating punching power, winning 173 of 174 professional fights. He's widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of all time.
