Awesome Lewis knocks out Rahman

LAS VEGAS, NOV. 18. Lennox Lewis reclaimed the World Boxing Council (WBC) and International Boxing Federation (IBF) heavyweight titles in devastating fashion when he knocked out Hasim Rahman in the fourth round.

Briton Lewis, who labelled Rahman a one-punch wonder when the American took his crowns last April in South Africa, was never threatened in the rematch held yesterday.

He dominated the first three rounds before dropping his opponent with a thundering right one minute 29 seconds into the fourth.

Rahman lay motionless on the canvas before trying to stumble to his feet as referee Joe Cortez counted him out, while Lewis pounded his chest in jubilation at joining Muhammad Ali and Evander Holyfield as the only men to win the world heavyweight title three times.

``I said in South Africa that my belts were on loan,'' the 36- year-old Lewis said. ``He's had his moment of fame, now the belts are back with me. I've changed his name to has-been Rahman. The Buster Douglas of the 21st century. I told you that punch in South Africa was a lucky one.''

Lewis (39-2-1) also became just the fourth boxer to regain the heavyweight championship from the same fighter he lost it to. The others were Floyd Patterson, Ali and Holyfield. So punishing was Lewis's assault that Rahman was unable to attend the post-fight news conference, making a mandatory visit to hospital as required by the Nevada State Athletic Commission doctor.

Rahman's manager said later that the 29-year-old fighter was fine and was taken to the hospital only as a precaution. ``I want to assure all of you the Rock is fine,'' Steve Nelson said. ``The Rock says he will be back.''

- Reuters

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Section  : Sport
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