"I never tried to be a mercenary or a killer but a hard working fighter."
About Larry Holmes
Larry Holmes — Life and Legacy
Larry Holmes, a prominent figure in boxing, is celebrated for his remarkable career as a heavyweight champion and his ability to overcome adversity. His journey in the ring is marked by a fierce determination and a unique fighting style that challenged the norms of his time. Holmes famously stated, 'It's not how you start, it's how you finish,' a reflection of his belief that perseverance is key to success. This quote encapsulates his approach to boxing and life, emphasizing that the path to achievement is often fraught with challenges that must be faced head-on. Holmes's mindset was shaped by his experiences, including the struggles he faced as an African American athlete in a predominantly white sport. His quotes often reveal a deep understanding of resilience, as he navigated both personal and professional hurdles. For instance, his assertion, 'I don't care what people say about me,' underscores his commitment to self-belief and the importance of focusing on one's goals despite external criticism. Today, Larry Holmes's quotes resonate with those seeking motivation and insight into the nature of success. His legacy is not just in his titles but in the lessons he imparts about discipline, hard work, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Holmes's words continue to inspire athletes and individuals alike, reminding them that true strength lies in the ability to rise after every fall.
Quote collection
Larry Holmes quotes (page 1 of 4)
80 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"I came from a dirt farm, now I'm filthy rich."
"All fighters are prostitutes and all promoters are pimps"
"Set a goal and make a commitment to meet that goal. Do the best you can, but never forget your roots, never forget where you came from. After you have succeeded, look back and see if there are others that you might help to achieve what you have accomplished."
"Mike Tyson would have been a good sparring partner for me and Muhammad Ali because Tyson was a fast fighter and he could punch and throw good combinations."
"This is the lying thieving mother who cut me $500,000."
"There is no quit in me."
"My dad used to tell me, 'Check the price, son.' Check the price, kids, check the price because there is a price to be paid for whatever you do in life, whether it is good or it is bad. Before you do something, ask yourself is it worth the price you have to pay?"
"Mike Tyson always had a big heart, but one of his problems is that he's short. And he's got kind of a personal attitude. But that don't make him a great fighter."
"I achieved something once again, I think we all want to put a mark on life. I dream, and my dreams always come true. I dreamed I was the heavyweight champion of the world. I am the heavyweight champion of the world."
"[My] worst habit: Drinking too much Budweiser when I get angry."
"Now I'm free of him and I'm light as a feather. There's no weight holding me down; I'm ready to spread my wings and fly."
"George Foreman is easier and has the bigger name and have you noticed that Foreman never calls me out or ever mentions my name? He is afraid of me like most fighters are and most people want to forget about Larry Holmes, like he never ever existed."
"If you don't follow Don King, you get stepped on."
"It wasn't about Larry Holmes, if I would have fought a brother I wouldn't have gotten the money I got. Give me 10 black guys and I make eight dollars. Give me Gerry Cooney and I make $10 million."
"People think that I reached the top overnight; well, it took me fourteen years. I was twenty-nine before I really made it. I've had my jaws and hands broken. One arm is out of place. I've paid my dues in this business."
"It's hard being black. You ever been black? I was black once - when I was poor."
"I didn't fight this fight for the blacks, the whites or the Spanish, I fought th fight for the people. We're all God's children. I don't see color. I'm not a racist When I look at Gerry Cooney, I just see a man trying to take my head off."
"I won't say I won't fight again but I don't think anyone wants to fight me so I am finished and I will just continue with boxing exhibitions."
"Kenny Norton hit me so hard that it still hurts. Now there was a case of two fighters who did not like each other."