On November 17, 2001, Lennox Lewis and Hasim Rahman met for a highly anticipated rematch at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. After Rahman shocked the world with a knockout victory over Lewis in their first encounter, this fight was about redemption for Lewis and validation for Rahman. Here’s a detailed, casual breakdown of each round of this dramatic and decisive bout.
Round 1: Setting the Tone
The first round started with both fighters looking to establish their dominance. Lewis, determined to reclaim his title, came out with a sharp jab, immediately using his reach advantage to keep Rahman at a distance. Rahman, brimming with confidence from his previous victory, looked to press forward and land big shots. Lewis’s jab was effective early, landing several times and keeping Rahman from closing the distance. Lewis also threw a few right hands that connected cleanly. Rahman landed a couple of body shots, but Lewis clearly won the round with his accurate jab and right hands.
Round 2: Rahman’s Aggression
Rahman picked up the pace in the second round, trying to repeat his previous success. He moved forward aggressively, looking to land his powerful right hand. Lewis, however, maintained his composure and continued to work behind his jab. Rahman landed a couple of decent shots, but Lewis’s defense and jab were effective in keeping him at bay. Lewis landed a few more right hands, showing that he was in control. Rahman’s aggression made it a closer round, but Lewis’s cleaner punches likely gave him the edge.
Round 3: Lewis’s Precision
In the third round, Lewis began to showcase his superior boxing skills. His jab was on point, snapping Rahman’s head back repeatedly. Lewis followed up with powerful right hands, which started to take a toll on Rahman. Rahman tried to press forward but struggled to get inside Lewis’s reach. Lewis landed a big right hand midway through the round that visibly shook Rahman. By the end of the round, Lewis was in control, landing clean and powerful shots. It was a clear round for Lewis, who was starting to impose his will.
Round 4: Rahman’s Resilience
Rahman showed his resilience in the fourth round. He continued to press forward, trying to land his powerful right hand. Rahman managed to land a couple of decent shots, but Lewis’s jab and right hand continued to dominate. Lewis landed several hard punches, including a big right hand that staggered Rahman. Rahman, however, kept coming forward, showing his determination. Lewis’s superior boxing skills and power were evident, but Rahman’s heart and toughness made it a competitive round. Lewis still had the edge, landing the cleaner and more effective punches.
Round 5: The Beginning of the End
The fifth round was the beginning of the end for Rahman. Lewis came out with a sense of urgency, determined to finish the fight. He landed several big jabs and right hands, keeping Rahman on the defensive. Rahman tried to respond but struggled to land anything significant. Lewis’s power and precision were too much for Rahman to handle. Midway through the round, Lewis landed a devastating right hand that sent Rahman crashing to the canvas. Rahman managed to get up, but he was clearly hurt. Lewis pressed forward, landing another big right hand that sent Rahman down again. The referee counted Rahman out, and the fight was over. Lennox Lewis had regained his heavyweight titles with a spectacular knockout victory.
The Aftermath
The knockout victory for Lennox Lewis was a defining moment in his career. He had avenged his previous loss to Rahman in emphatic fashion, reclaiming his titles and solidifying his status as one of the greatest heavyweights of all time. Rahman, despite his loss, was gracious in defeat, acknowledging Lewis’s superior performance. The fight was a testament to Lewis’s skill, power, and determination.
Post-Fight Reactions
Lewis was jubilant after the fight, celebrating his victory and redemption. He had silenced his critics and proved that his loss to Rahman in their first fight was a fluke. Lewis’s performance showcased his incredible boxing skills and power, cementing his legacy as an all-time great. Rahman, on the other hand, remained a respected figure in the heavyweight division, known for his power and resilience. The rematch had provided a definitive conclusion to their rivalry, with Lewis emerging as the undisputed champion.
Conclusion
The rematch between Lennox Lewis and Hasim Rahman was a classic example of the highs and lows of boxing. Lewis had come into the fight with a point to prove and delivered a masterclass in boxing, using his jab, reach, and power to dominate Rahman. The knockout victory was a testament to Lewis’s skill and determination, as he reclaimed his titles and solidified his legacy. Rahman, despite his loss, showed heart and resilience, remaining a respected figure in the sport. The fight was a fitting conclusion to their rivalry, providing fans with a dramatic and decisive outcome.
