Oleksandr Usyk vs. Evander Holyfield: Whose resume is stronger?

In the history of boxing, very few fighters have been able to dominate across multiple weight divisions, let alone achieve undisputed champion status in both cruiserweight and heavyweight. Two fighters who have accomplished this rare feat are Oleksandr Usyk and Evander Holyfield—both legends in their own right. But when it comes to legacy, achievements, and overall impact on the sport, who stands taller?

This in-depth comparison examines their records, notable victories, accolades, and lasting influence in the world of boxing.

Oleksandr Usyk: The Modern-Day Master Technician

Professional Record and Career Overview

• Total Fights: 23
• Wins: 23 (14 KOs)
• Losses: 0
• Undisputed Cruiserweight Champion (2018)
• Undisputed Heavyweight Champion (2024)

Born in Ukraine in 1987, Oleksandr Usyk is a technical genius, blending masterful footwork, defensive brilliance, and elite-level ring IQ. His undefeated record and ability to defeat elite opponents, both in cruiserweight and heavyweight, make him one of the greatest of this generation.

Cruiserweight Reign: A Clean Sweep

Usyk turned professional in 2013, and within five years, he became the undisputed cruiserweight champion—a feat achieved by winning the World Boxing Super Series (WBSS).

Notable Cruiserweight Victories

• Murat Gassiev (2018): Defeated the undefeated Russian to unify all four major titles.
• Tony Bellew (2018): Knocked out the British fighter in the eighth round, defending his undisputed status.

His dominance in the division made him the first fighter to unify the cruiserweight division in the four-belt era.

Heavyweight Domination: Taking Down Giants

After conquering cruiserweight, Usyk moved to heavyweight in 2019, where his skills were tested against much bigger and stronger opponents. However, he proved that skill beats size by defeating some of the division’s best.

Notable Heavyweight Victories

• Anthony Joshua (2021 & 2022): Beat Joshua twice via unanimous decision to claim the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight titles.
• Daniel Dubois (2023): Successfully defended his titles against the British knockout artist.
• Tyson Fury (2024): Defeated the WBC champion via split decision, becoming the first undisputed heavyweight champion in the four-belt era.

Usyk’s victory over Fury cemented his place in boxing history, as he became the first man since Evander Holyfield to be undisputed in two weight classes.

Legacy and Impact

Usyk is often praised for his technical skillset, making him one of the most intelligent boxers to ever step inside the ring. His ability to outthink, outmaneuver, and outbox opponents—regardless of their size—has made him a generational talent. His undefeated record and ability to win at the highest level solidify his status among the all-time greats.

Evander Holyfield: The Warrior’s Path

Professional Record and Career Overview

• Total Fights: 57
• Wins: 44 (29 KOs)
• Losses: 10
• Draws: 2
• Undisputed Cruiserweight Champion (1988)
• Undisputed Heavyweight Champion (1990)

Born in 1962 in Atmore, Alabama, Evander Holyfield is one of boxing’s most fearless warriors. He fought in one of the most competitive eras in heavyweight history and took on every challenge—no matter how daunting.

Cruiserweight Domination: The First to Do It

Holyfield turned professional in 1984, and by 1988, he had become the first-ever undisputed cruiserweight champion.

Notable Cruiserweight Victories

• Dwight Muhammad Qawi (1986): Won a 15-round war to claim the WBA cruiserweight title.
• Carlos De León (1988): Knocked out De León in the eighth round to become the undisputed cruiserweight champion.

Heavyweight Wars: The Most Resilient Champion

Holyfield’s transition to heavyweight in 1988 marked the beginning of an incredible journey filled with classic fights against legendary names.

Notable Heavyweight Victories

• James “Buster” Douglas (1990): Knocked out the man who defeated Mike Tyson to claim the undisputed heavyweight championship.
• George Foreman (1991): Defended his titles against the former champion in a grueling 12-round battle.
• Larry Holmes (1992): Defeated the former heavyweight champion via unanimous decision.
• Riddick Bowe (1993): Won a thrilling rematch against Bowe, reclaiming his heavyweight championship.
• Mike Tyson (1996 & 1997): Stopped Tyson in the 11th round in their first fight, then won the infamous rematch where Tyson bit his ear.

Holyfield fought in an era stacked with elite heavyweights and proved himself time and time again.

Legacy and Impact

Holyfield is celebrated for his heart, toughness, and warrior mentality. He took on every top fighter of his era, often entering as the underdog and emerging victorious. His ability to withstand punishment and keep fighting is legendary, and his place in boxing history is cemented.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Who Ranks Higher All-Time?

Final Verdict: Who Has the Stronger Resume?

Both Usyk and Holyfield have achieved greatness by becoming undisputed in two divisions, a feat that cements their legacy as all-time greats.

• If we focus on skill and dominance, Usyk has the edge. His undefeated record, technical mastery, and victories over Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua place him in a league of his own.
• If we focus on longevity and quality of opposition, Holyfield takes the crown. He fought in a golden era of heavyweights, defeating legends like Mike Tyson, George Foreman, and Larry Holmes while participating in some of boxing’s greatest wars.

Ultimately, the choice depends on what you value more—pure dominance and technical brilliance (Usyk) or warrior spirit and longevity (Holyfield).

Who do you think ranks higher all-time? Let us know in the comments!