Earnie Dee Shaver, better known as Earnie Shavers, was an American professional boxer who competed from 1969 to 1995. He is widely recognized as one of the hardest punchers in heavyweight boxing history, a reputation solidified by his impressive record of 70 knockout wins, including 23 in the first round, contributing to a 76.9% overall knockout rate. Shavers, nicknamed "The Black Destroyer," twice challenged for the heavyweight championship, facing
two of the era's most iconic figures: Muhammad Ali in 1977 and Larry Holmes in 1979. His career was marked by both devastating power and a relentless pursuit of the sport's highest honor.
The Ali Encounter: A Defining Moment
Shavers' most famous bout was against Muhammad Ali at Madison Square Garden on September 29, 1977, for the undisputed heavyweight championship. Coming into this fight, Shavers boasted a formidable record of 54 wins, 5 losses, and 1 draw, with 52 knockouts. Ali, who nicknamed Shavers "The Acorn" due to his shaved bald head, was the reigning champion. The fight was a major event, broadcast in prime time by NBC, a rare occurrence for the network, which typically left Ali's fights to ABC. To ensure transparency and avoid controversy, the judges' scoring was announced after each round.
During the fight, Shavers demonstrated his immense power, hurting Ali with an overhand right in the second round. However, Ali, known for his ring intelligence and psychological tactics, play-acted that he was more seriously hurt than he was, causing Shavers to hesitate and not press for a knockout. Despite this, Shavers continued to land hard shots to Ali's head and body throughout the match. The fight went the full 15 rounds, with Ali ultimately winning by a unanimous decision. This encounter, though a loss for Shavers, cemented his status as a legitimate threat and showcased his ability to challenge the very best in the division.
Fighting Style and Notable Victories
Shavers' fighting style was characterized by his exceptionally heavy punching. He typically stalked his opponents, setting them up for his thunderous right hand, which was responsible for many of his knockouts. Angelo Dundee, Ali's cornerman, once remarked in a Sports Illustrated article that Shavers "can get you out of there with any kind of shot," highlighting his ability to inflict damage with a left hook, right cross, or right uppercut. Several boxers known for their tough chins, such as Joe Bugner and Jimmy Ellis, fell victim to Shavers' powerful uppercut. He would throw punches at any legal area, relying on his tremendous power to wear down opponents and exploit openings. His fighting stance projected a short and powerful image.
Beyond his challenge for the world title, Shavers compiled an impressive list of victories against other notable heavyweights. He defeated former world champions Vicente Rondón, Jimmy Ellis, and Ken Norton. He also overcame three-time European heavyweight champion Joe Bugner and top heavyweight contender Jimmy Young. While his chin was sometimes considered a weakness, Shavers also demonstrated an ability to box, not just slug. In one instance, he injured his right hand early in a 10-round match against rated craftsman Henry Clark. Shavers responded by delivering a strong jabbing performance, ultimately beating Clark, who was himself noted for his jabbing ability, on points. This showed a versatility beyond his raw power.
Post-Boxing Life and Legacy
After retiring from professional boxing, Earnie Shavers remained connected to the sport. In 2001, he released his autobiography titled *Welcome to the Big Time*. He continued to attend boxing events as a special guest, signing autographs and serving as a motivational speaker. Shavers also made a guest appearance on the Irish TV program *The Late Late Show*, where he discussed his previous bout with Ron Lyle, which had occurred a month prior. He was a frequent visitor to Roddy Bolands pub in Dublin, where a signed picture of him enjoying a pint of Guinness hangs on the wall. Shavers was married to his high school sweetheart, Laverne Payne, and they had five daughters: Tamara, Cynthia, Catherine, Carla, and Amy. He also had four other daughters and one son from other relationships, along with 24 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Earnie Shavers' legacy endures as one of boxing's most formidable punchers, a fighter who consistently delivered excitement and challenged the sport's elite.
