Mike Tyson, Julio Cesar Chavez & Tszyu Elected to IBHOF 2011 Class

Induction during Hall of Fame Weekend June 12, 2011:

The 2011 International Boxing Hall of Fame 2011 inductee class has been announced, and it includes some huge names. Heading the list is none other than “Iron” Mike Tyson. Yes, before he had facial tattoos and appeared in The Hangover, some still remember when he was the youngest heavyweight champion of all-time and a true killer in the ring. Tyson might be the biggest name, but the most noteworthy inclusion is that of Julio Cesar Chavez, perhaps the best Mexican fighter of all-time, and one of the best fighters not only of his generation but throughout history.

Both Tyson’s and Chavez’s induction into the boxing hall of fame is long overdue, as each man continued fighting, at least sporadically, far beyond their proper due date.

Chavez finished with a career record of 107 (86) – 6 – 2, the kind of numbers usually reserved for legends of earlier generations, not the modern era. He had long title reigns in three weight classes, 130 lbs, 135 lbs, 140 lbs, was feared for his pressure game and body work, and had a complete arsenal of weapons in his tool box. His draw with Pernell Whitaker was dubious at best, and many argue with the stoppage win in the final seconds that he earned over Meldrick Taylor, but the quality and total body of work is nearly unparalleled by any man.

Tyson finished with a career record of 50 (44) – 6, which had stood at 49 – 3 before losing three of his last four outings. The two time heavyweight titleholder lost both fights to Evander Holyfield, including the infamous ear biting scandal, and was crushed by Lennox Lewis, but made a combined 11 successful title defenses and ruled as boxing’s baddest man and one of the sport’s biggest stars of the past 50 years.

The other modern era fighter inducted in the 2011 class will be Kostya Tszyu. Before losing a rough and tumble bout against Ricky Hatton, he was a two time titleholder and reeled off 13 successful title defenses in between one other loss, to Vince Phillips. His most famous showing was his quick knockout of Zab Judah in their junior welterweight showdown. Tszyu had a record of 31 (25) – 2, with 1 no contest.

A few other prominent and well known names though are also being inducted into the 2011 boxing hall of fame class. They include longtime trainer Ignacio “Nacho” Beristain, and prominent referee Joe “I’m fair, but I’m firm” Cortez. For his movie career, Sylvester Stallone is also getting honored in the 2011 class.

Posthumous 2011 IBHOF inductees include: