24 years ago
Lennox Lewis vs Frans Botha
Date: 15th July 2000
Venue: London Arena, Millwall, EnglandTitle: WBC, IBF & IBO World Heavyweight Titles
Promoter: Panix Promotions, Queensberry Promotions, & Main Events
Referee: Larry O'Connell
Tv: HBO Sports & Sky Sports
Lennox Lewis
(
36
-
1
-
1
)
Weight: 250 lbs
Frans Botha
(
40
-
2
-
1
)
Weight: 237 lbs
On July 15, 2000, at the London Arena, Lennox Lewis defended his WBC, IBF, and IBO heavyweight titles against South African challenger Francois Botha. This bout marked Lewis's return to a British ring after nearly six years, his last appearance being a loss to Oliver McCall in 1994.
Botha, known as the "White Buffalo," entered the fight with a record of 40 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw and was ranked ninth by the WBC. Despite his ranking, he was considered a significant underdog against Lewis, who held a 36-1-1 record.
From the outset, Lewis established dominance. In the first round, he connected with a powerful overhand right that staggered Botha, though the challenger managed to remain on his feet. Lewis's control was evident, as he effectively used his left jab to dictate the pace.
Lewis intensified his assault in the second round. Approximately two minutes and thirty-nine seconds into the round, he unleashed a combination culminating in a right hand that sent Botha through the ropes. Botha attempted to rise but was unable to continue, prompting referee Larry O'Connell to halt the contest and award Lewis a technical knockout victory.
This victory improved Lewis's record to 37 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw, with 29 knockouts. Botha's record fell to 40-3-1. The bout was attended by approximately 10,000 spectators, who witnessed Lewis's successful title defence in his homecoming fight.
In the aftermath, Lewis's trainer, Emanuel Steward, praised his fighter's performance, highlighting the effective use of the left jab and control of the fight's distance. Botha acknowledged Lewis's prowess, conceding that he was caught by a very good shot and affirming Lewis as a worthy champion.
Lennox Lewis vs Frans Botha on YouTube
