Nickname: “The Real Deal”
Birthplace: Atmore, Alabama, USA
Weight Class: Cruiserweight / Heavyweight
Stance: Orthodox
Professional Record: 44 – 10 – 2 (29 KOs)
Years Active: 1984 – 2011
Biography
Evander Holyfield is the only fighter to win the undisputed cruiserweight and heavyweight titles, becoming the sport’s spiritual bridge between Tyson’s era and the 1990s greats. His trilogy with Riddick Bowe and victories over Tyson defined an entire decade.
In the Hobby
Holyfield’s rookies were issued during boxing’s late-1980s Panini expansion.
Rookie & Early Issues
- 1987 Panini Supersport (Italy): true rookie.
- 1988 Topps Boxing (USA): first U.S. mainstream card.
Registry Metadata
Earliest Issue: 1987 Panini Supersport
Rookie Year: 1987
Recent Notable Sales: 1987 Panini (PSA 10) — $1,450 (2024)
Legacy
Holyfield embodied courage and endurance. His 1987 Panini rookie is a cornerstone of late-80s collecting.