This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 6/27/2021.
Lennox Lewis first fought Evander Holyfield for the IBF title on March 13, 1999. The fight was declared a draw despite the fact that Lewis landed more punches than Holyfield and even stunned the reigning champion multiple times. Many called the fight one of the worst decisions in the history of boxing and a rematch was scheduled for November 13 later that year. “Holyfield vs. Lewis II” saw a back-and-forth matchup with Lewis ultimately being crowned the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world with a unanimous decision in 12 rounds. Lewis successfully defended his IBF title three times before facing Hasim Rahman in South Africa on April 22, 2001. The two fighters fought a close first four rounds but Rahman became the aggressor as the fight wore on, knocking the champ out with seconds remaining in the fifth round. Rahman initially searched for a new opponent but was eventually ordered to honor a rematch clause in his contract with Lewis. The court-ordered rematch was scheduled for November 17th later that year in Las Vegas. “Rahman Lewis II” saw Lewis return to form, dominating Rahman from the start. In the fourth round Lewis delivered a devastating two-punch knockout that would crown him the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world once again. This belt was presented to Lewis after he defeated Rahman on November 17, 2001. The red and white leather belt measures approximately 47x11” and weighs 7.5 LBs. The belt sports a highly-detailed center plate adorned with a large eagle, two boxing gloves and the IBF logo enameled in red, black and white in the center. The logo reads “IBF - World Champion - International Boxing Federation”. Approximately 187 stones adorn the perimeter of the center plate, the pattern alternates between synthetic diamonds and rubies. Adjacent to the left and right of the center plate are two blank 4.5” plates with the casted image of an eagle perched atop. A 5x3.5” plate on the verso of the belt features two boxers in relief as well as the IBF logo enameled in red, black and white in the center. Above the logo is the “Official” and below is the facsimile signature of the founder and former President of the IBF, Robert W. Lee, in relief. The belt features a large velcro fastener and faux white fur padding around the interior. This truly one-of-a-kind item comes directly from Lewis’ second cornerman, Harold “Shadow” Knight. The belt is in NRMT condition.