The article discusses the boxing career of Donovan "Razor" Ruddock, a Jamaican-Canadian boxer who gained recognition in the 1980s for his powerful left-handed punch. Ruddock's most notable fight was against Mike Tyson, the then-heavyweight champion, in 1991. Despite being the underdog, Ruddock went the distance with Tyson, but ultimately lost by technical knockout in the seventh round. Ruddock's corner was outraged by the referee's decision to stop the fight, leading to a melee in the ring. A rematch was scheduled for June 28, 1991, which Tyson won by unanimous decision, despite Ruddock's valiant effort. The article highlights Ruddock's determination and skill in the ring, as well as his reputation as a formidable opponent in the heavyweight division.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Mike Tyson was the youngest heavyweight champion in history when he beat Trevor Berbick.
2. Donovan Ruddock was born in Jamaica and moved to Canada as an 11-year-old.
3. Ruddock developed a love for boxing and became an amateur boxer.
4. Ruddock defeated Lennox Lewis in an amateur bout.
5. Ruddock turned pro and racked up victories against tough fighters in the 1980s.
6. Ruddock was scheduled to fight Mike Tyson in 1989, but the fight was cancelled due to Tyson citing illness.
7. Ruddock instead fought Michael Dukes in April 1990 and won by stopping him in four rounds.
8. Ruddock's technique was known as "the smash," a hybrid of a hook and an uppercut.
9. Tyson and Ruddock fought on December 9, 1990, with Tyson winning by technical knockout in the seventh round.
10. The fight was marred by controversy, with Ruddock's corner disputing the stoppage.
11. A rematch between Tyson and Ruddock took place on June 28, 1991.
12. The rematch was also a championship elimination fight, with the winner becoming the mandatory top challenger for the undisputed world championship title.
13. Tyson won the rematch by unanimous decision, with all three judges ruling in his favor.
14. Ruddock's left eye was swollen shut and his jaw was broken in the rematch.
15. Tyson suffered a perforated eardrum in the rematch.