Keith Holmes (boxer) facts for kids

Keith Pickett Holmes, born on March 30, 1969, is a famous American former boxer. He was known for his strong performances in the boxing ring.

Keith Holmes' Boxing Career

Starting as a Professional Boxer

Keith Holmes began his professional boxing journey in 1989. He quickly showed his talent. In 1996, he won a big title. He became the World Boxing Council (WBC) Middleweight Champion. He earned this title by winning against Quincy Taylor with a TKO, which means "Technical Knockout." This happens when the referee stops the fight because one boxer can't safely continue.

Defending and Regaining the Title

After winning his first WBC Middleweight Title, Keith Holmes successfully defended it two times. This means he fought other boxers and kept his championship belt. However, in 1998, he lost the title to Hassine Cherifi in a close fight.

But Keith didn't give up! In 1999, he got a chance to fight Cherifi again. This time, Keith won back his WBC Middleweight Title with another TKO in the seventh round. He defended the title two more times after that.

Later Fights and Life Outside the Ring

Keith Holmes eventually lost his WBC Middleweight Title to another boxing legend, Bernard Hopkins, in 2001. This fight was part of a special tournament to unite different middleweight titles.

After that, Keith continued to box sometimes. In 2005, he had a tough fight against Roman Karmazin. It was a fight to decide who would get a chance to challenge for the IBF Light Middleweight Title. Keith lost that fight by a very close decision.

Outside of boxing, Keith Holmes is a vegan. This means he chooses not to eat any animal products.

See also

• List of world middleweight boxing champions