On June 10, 1978, in a legendary boxing match held at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada, Larry Holmes faced Ken Norton for the WBC Heavyweight Championship title. This fight was a significant event in boxing history due to the intense rivalry between the two fighters and the fact that the winner would become the mandatory challenger for the WBA champion, Muhammad Ali.
The fight lived up to its billing, with both Holmes and Norton displaying their skills and determination throughout the 15-round contest. Holmes, known for his powerful jab and technical prowess, managed to keep Norton at bay for much of the fight. However, Norton, a formidable opponent with an unorthodox style, refused to back down and kept pressing forward, landing some solid shots of his own.
As the fight progressed, Holmes began to assert his dominance, using his superior boxing skills and stamina to outwork Norton. In the later rounds, Holmes landed a series of punishing blows that took their toll on the tiring Norton.
After the full 15 rounds, the judges' scorecards were tallied, and Larry Holmes was declared the winner by a split decision (143-142, 143-142, 142-143). With this victory, Holmes claimed the WBC Heavyweight Championship title and earned his place as the top contender for Muhammad Ali's WBA title.
The Holmes-Norton fight is remembered as a classic heavyweight battle, showcasing the skill, heart, and determination of two of the era's finest boxers. It also marked the beginning of Larry Holmes' reign as a dominant force in the heavyweight division, setting the stage for his eventual showdown with Muhammad Ali and his subsequent successful title defenses.
