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The Best Uppercuts in Boxing History
The uppercut is one of the most devastating punches in boxing, capable of changing the tide of a fight in an instant. When thrown correctly, it sneaks past an opponent’s guard, lands flush on the chin, and often results in a highlight-reel knockout. While many fighters have mastered the art of the jab, hook, and cross, only a select few have perfected the uppercut to legendary levels. Let’s take a look at the boxers with the most dangerous and effective uppercuts in history.
1. Mike Tyson – The Undisputed Uppercut King
Mike Tyson’s uppercut was pure destruction. As one of the most feared heavyweights of all time, Tyson used his compact frame and explosive power to unleash uppercuts that sent opponents crumbling. His ability to slip inside, throw vicious hooks, and follow up with an uppercut made him a nightmare for anyone standing in front of him. A prime example of this was his knockout of Buster Mathis Jr., where he used a perfectly timed uppercut to end the fight in brutal fashion.
2. Lennox Lewis – The Perfect Technician
Lennox Lewis had one of the most powerful uppercuts in heavyweight history. His knockout of Michael Grant in 2000 showcased the sheer force of his uppercut, as he sent Grant crashing to the canvas with a picture-perfect shot. Lewis’ height and reach allowed him to throw uppercuts from a distance, making it nearly impossible for opponents to avoid. Unlike Tyson’s short, compact uppercuts, Lewis’ version was long, destructive, and often set up by his powerful jab.
3. George Foreman – The Clubbing Uppercut
Big George Foreman was known for his brute strength, and his uppercut was like a sledgehammer. Whether in his prime or during his legendary comeback, Foreman’s uppercut was one of the most dangerous punches in the sport. His ability to stand toe-to-toe with opponents and deliver a punishing uppercut made him a true heavyweight force. One of his best displays of the uppercut came in his fight against Ron Lyle, where he used it to help secure a wild comeback victory in one of the greatest slugfests in boxing history.
4. Joe Louis – The Smooth Operator
Joe Louis had one of the most technically sound uppercuts in boxing history. His ability to deliver it with pinpoint accuracy was second to none. Louis’ uppercut was never wild or reckless—it was smooth, calculated, and incredibly efficient. He famously used it to dismantle opponents like Max Baer, combining it with his precise punching to deliver some of the most textbook knockouts of all time.
5. Riddick Bowe – The Inside Specialist
Riddick Bowe’s uppercut was one of the best weapons in the heavyweight division during the 1990s. His battles with Evander Holyfield showcased his ability to land devastating uppercuts in close range. Unlike many heavyweights who relied on their reach and jab, Bowe was comfortable fighting on the inside, where he could unleash his uppercut with full force. His uppercut-heavy performance in his first fight with Holyfield in 1992 is still considered one of the best heavyweight fights ever.
6. Manny Pacquiao – The Speed Demon
Manny Pacquiao might be more famous for his relentless combinations and footwork, but his uppercut was a deadly weapon that caught many opponents off guard. His fight against Ricky Hatton in 2009 was a perfect example—Pacquiao landed an uppercut during the early exchanges that set the stage for his iconic knockout. His ability to throw uppercuts from odd angles, combined with his blazing speed, made him a threat in every exchange.
7. Julio César Chávez – The Body Uppercut Master
Julio César Chávez was one of the best pressure fighters of all time, and his uppercut was a major reason why. While many fighters aimed their uppercuts at the head, Chávez often targeted the body, breaking down opponents with relentless precision. His brutal body uppercuts helped him wear down and stop many of his toughest challengers, making him one of the most feared inside fighters in boxing history.
8. Sugar Ray Robinson – The Artist
Sugar Ray Robinson is widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of all time, and his uppercut was a thing of beauty. Unlike some of the heavyweight sluggers on this list, Robinson’s uppercut was fast, fluid, and incredibly accurate. His ability to slip punches and counter with an uppercut made him one of the most complete fighters the sport has ever seen.
Honorable Mentions
Evander Holyfield – Used the uppercut effectively in his wars with Bowe and Tyson.
Roy Jones Jr. – Known for his speed and reflexes, Jones’ uppercut was unpredictable and explosive.
Gervonta Davis – One of the best modern uppercuts, with a highlight-reel knockout of Leo Santa Cruz.
FIGHT.TV Breaks Down The Best Uppercuts
The uppercut is a high-risk, high-reward punch, but when executed perfectly, it can end a fight in an instant. Whether it was Tyson’s raw power, Lewis’ technical destruction, or Chávez’s relentless body shots, each of these boxers used the uppercut to cement their legacy in the sport. Who do you think had the greatest uppercut in boxing history? Let us know in the comments!
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