From underdogs rising to champions falling, these five fights shook the boxing world to its core. Let’s explore the most jaw-dropping upsets that left fans and experts stunned.
Buster Douglas KOs Mike Tyson (1990)
When “Iron” Mike Tyson faced James “Buster” Douglas in Tokyo, he was considered invincible. Douglas, a 42-1 underdog, had other plans. Many sports betting sites didn’t even offer odds, considering it a foregone conclusion.
Motivated by his mother’s recent death, Douglas fought brilliantly. In the 10th round, he landed a devastating combination that sent Tyson crashing down. The world watched in disbelief as a new champion was crowned.
Tyson’s aura of invincibility shattered, while Douglas became an overnight sensation. However, Douglas’s reign was short-lived, losing the title in his first defense.
Cassius Clay Shocks Sonny Liston (1964)
Before becoming Muhammad Ali, Cassius Clay challenged heavyweight champion Sonny Liston. Few gave Clay a chance against the feared puncher.
From the opening bell, Clay’s speed and agility confounded Liston. After six rounds, Liston refused to continue, citing a shoulder injury. Clay had done the impossible, becoming the new heavyweight champion of the world.
This victory launched the legend of Muhammad Ali, marking the beginning of one of the most iconic careers in sports history.
Andy Ruiz Jr. Stuns Anthony Joshua (2019)
When Andy Ruiz Jr. stepped in as a last-minute replacement to face Anthony Joshua, no one gave him a chance. But on June 1, 2019, Ruiz shocked the world.
After being knocked down in the third round, Ruiz unleashed a barrage that sent Joshua to the canvas. The champion never recovered, and Ruiz scored three more knockdowns before the referee stopped the fight in the seventh round.
The upset sent shockwaves through boxing. Ruiz became a celebrity, while Joshua’s invincible image crumbled. Although Joshua reclaimed his titles in a rematch, the first fight remains one of boxing’s biggest surprises.
Frankie Randall Dethrones Julio César Chávez (1994)
Julio César Chávez was a national hero in Mexico, undefeated in 90 fights. On January 29, 1994, Frankie Randall changed that.
In a closely contested fight, Randall knocked Chávez down – a first. Combined with point deductions for low blows, Randall won a split decision. While Chávez reclaimed his title in a rematch, his aura of invincibility was gone, marking the beginning of the end for his dominance in the sport.
Leon Spinks Upsets Muhammad Ali (1978)
In 1978, Muhammad Ali faced Leon Spinks, a virtual unknown with only seven professional fights. No one gave Spinks a chance against the three-time world champion.
Spinks brought relentless energy, pressuring Ali throughout. After fifteen grueling rounds, Spinks won a split decision, becoming the new heavyweight champion.
For Spinks, it was his career’s pinnacle, though he lost the rematch. For Ali, it signaled his best days were behind him, leading to his retirement (though he would return for two ill-advised fights).
The Legacy of the Underdogs
These fights remind us why boxing captivates audiences worldwide. They prove that on any given night, the impossible can happen. Underdogs can rise, and champions can fall.
Each upset left an indelible mark on boxing history, creating new stars and ending eras of dominance. They remind fans that in the ring, anything is possible. From Tokyo to Las Vegas, from the 1960s to the present day, these shocking knockouts continue to inspire and amaze boxing fans around the globe.
So next time you watch a seemingly one-sided fight, remember these incredible upsets. In boxing, as in life, it’s not over until the final bell rings. And sometimes, the most unexpected outcomes create the most unforgettable moments in sports history.