ATLANTA – An Atlanta native, who conquered legends in the boxing ring, will be forever enshrined in his hometown.
On Monday, Mayor Kasim reed announced a new bronze statue of boxer Evander Holyfield will soon stand in front of the Flatiron Building, near Peachtree and Luckie Streets, in downtown Atlanta. The mayor said the new statue will honor the boxer's achievements and will remind people of his contributions to the sport and Atlanta's legacy of athletic achievement.
“Holyfield is an Olympic bronze medalist, the four-time heavyweight champion of the world and now a hall-of-famer. He represents what is possible in Atlanta: coming from humble beginnings, through dedication, hard work and a supportive community, rising as a champion," said Mayor Reed. "This statue is a fitting tribute to an individual who has meant so much to our city and our nation.”
Holyfield was born in Alabama, but raised in the Bowen Homes Housing Project in Atlanta. He began boxing in a program at the Warren Memorial Boys Club in Southeast Atlanta.
He went on to represent the United States at the 1984 Olympics, where he won the bronze medal in the Light Heavyweight division. Holyfield also became the first boxer since Muhammad Ali to win the heavyweight title three times.
“I am honored to receive this distinction from the City of Atlanta, to be memorialized with a statue in my hometown,” Holyfield said.
11Alive's Vinnie Politan sat down with the champ for a 1-on-1 interview. Watch it in the player above, or here below.
Brian Hanlon will sculpt the nine-foot tall statue, which will be installed in early 2108. The artist has created other renderings of local icons, including a statue of Dominique Wilkins outside Philips Arena, the statue of Braves General Manager Bobby Cox at SunTrust Park and a statue honoring Charles Barkley at Auburn University. The sculpture and installation will cost $90,000.
