Johnny Nelson facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Johnny Nelson MBE
Nelson in 2017
Statistics
Real name	Ivanson Ranny Nelson
Nickname(s)	The Entertainer
Rated at	Cruiserweight Heavyweight
Height	6 ft 2+1/2 in
Reach	81 in
Nationality	British
Born	(1967-01-04) 4 January 1967 (age 58) Sheffield, West Riding of Yorkshire, England
Stance	Orthodox
Boxing record
Total fights	59
Wins	45
Wins by KO	29
Losses	12
Draws	2

Ivanson Ranny "Johnny" Nelson is a famous British former professional boxer. He was born on January 4, 1967. Johnny competed as a professional boxer from 1986 until 2005. He was the World Boxing Organization (WBO) cruiserweight champion from 1999 to 2006. This makes him the longest-reigning cruiserweight world champion ever! He defended his title against 13 different boxers. He also never lost his championship title inside the boxing ring.

Johnny Nelson's Boxing Journey

Johnny Nelson started his boxing training at the Wincobank gym in Sheffield, England. His coach was Brendan Ingle. This coach also trained other famous boxers like Naseem Hamed and Kell Brook. When Johnny was an amateur boxer, he lost 10 out of his first 13 fights. But he didn't give up!

Becoming a Champion

Johnny Nelson became the WBO cruiserweight champion in 1999. He held this title for many years. He defended it against many tough opponents. He showed great skill and determination in his fights.

Retirement from Boxing

Johnny Nelson was supposed to have his 15th title defense in March 2006. He was going to fight Enzo Maccarinelli. However, Johnny got a knee injury while training. Because of this injury, he decided to retire from professional boxing. He announced his retirement in September 2006.

Life After Boxing

After retiring from boxing, Johnny Nelson found new ways to stay involved. He now works as a boxing expert for Sky Sports. He shares his knowledge and opinions about boxing matches.

Helping Others

Johnny has also spent time helping people in prison. He teaches them important life skills. He also does charity work. He even agreed to have a charity boxing match to help raise money.

Special Recognition

In 2023, Johnny Nelson was given a special award. He was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). This award recognized his great contributions to boxing. It also honored his work with young people in South Yorkshire.

In Video Games and Documentaries

Johnny Nelson's image and voice are featured in the 2024 video game Undisputed. He appears as a cruiserweight boxer in the game. His voice was also part of the 2024 documentary called Four Kings.

Johnny Nelson's Family Life

Johnny Nelson's mother was from Cuba and Jamaica. His father was from Dominica. His parents separated when he was very young. He did not meet his biological father again until he was in his thirties. In 2010, Johnny Nelson wrote a book about his life. It is called Hard Road to Glory.

Johnny Nelson's Boxing Record Summary

Johnny Nelson had a long and successful career. Here is a quick look at his professional boxing record: