Former heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman, who dethroned Lennox Lewis in 2001, is set to return to the ring after a 12-year hiatus. The 53-year-old, known as 'The Rock', will face off against Phillip Triantafillo in a six-round bout for the USA Indiana State Heavyweight Title on September 24th. This highly anticipated comeback comes as a surprise, given the initial cancellation of his fight with Robert Simms, scheduled for August 18th.
Rahman's return to boxing is a testament to his enduring legacy in the sport. He is one of only two men to have bested the legendary Lennox Lewis, avenging his loss to Oliver McCall in 1994 and securing a historic knockout victory over Lewis in 2001. This iconic win not only reclaimed his WBC, IBF, and lineal heavyweight titles but also set the stage for a highly anticipated showdown with Mike Tyson.
What makes Rahman's comeback even more intriguing is the involvement of his son, Sharif Rahman. Despite his professional success with an undefeated nine-fight record, Sharif has made a surprising switch to bare-knuckle boxing, joining the BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing organization. This strategic move by the younger Rahman could potentially pave the way for a future crossover event, blending the raw intensity of bare-knuckle boxing with the gloved elegance of traditional boxing.
The return of Hasim Rahman to the ring is a significant development in the world of boxing. It not only showcases the enduring appeal of the sport but also highlights the potential for generational transitions within the boxing community. As Rahman steps back into the ring, fans eagerly anticipate the impact of his comeback and the potential for new rivalries and storylines to emerge.
