Evander Holyfield

Evander Holyfield Biography (1962– ) Print this article Print this article Email this article Email this article Advertisement ... Professional boxer. Born on October 19, 1962, in Atmore, Alabama. Often referred to as “the Real Deal,” Holyfield is known for being a four-time world heavyweight champion. Growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, he took boxing lessons as a child. He competed as amateur in the Golden Gloves competitions in the early 1980s. After winning a national Golden Gloves Championship in 1984, Holyfield made the U.S. Olympic team. Proud to represent his country at the 1984 Olympics held in Los Angeles, he experienced a great disappointment in the ring. He was disqualified during a semifinal match against Kevin Barry of New Zealand for hitting his opponent after a break. Many who witnessed the fight have disputed the referee’s call. Despite this personal setback, Holyfield did receive the bronze medal.