Evander Holyfield's Gloves From Infamous Ear-Biting Fight With Mike Tyson Are up for Auction

Lelands Auctions is giving boxing fans a chance to own one of the most significant pairs of boxing gloves in the history of the sport.

The infamous “ear-biting” match between Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson still remains one of the most iconic moments in boxing even 25 years later. On November 9, 1996, the two faced off in a Heavyweight match for the first time, where Holyfield knocked down “Iron Mike.” Just seven months later, the two met again in the ring on June 28, 1997, where the duo squared off once again in a highly-anticipated rematch at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Holyfield gained an early advantage that frustrated Tyson and in the third round, Tyson stunned the world by biting off a chunk of his opponent’s ear. It led to Iron Mike’s disqualification and he was fined nearly $3 million USD. Tyson’s boxing ring license was also suspended, but he was reinstated 15 months later.

Though the pair have reconciled since the bizarre event, it still remains one of the most talked-about moments in sports history. Holyfield’s gloves from the infamous boxing match is now ready for auction and Lelands. The red Everlast gloves feature a white screen-printed logo on the front as well as brand patches sewn on the cuffs and the words “Holyfield #1” written in black marker.” Lelands’ listing notes the condition of the gloves which reads, “Light but definite use shown, not surprising as the bout lasted just those three rounds. A remarkable piece of pugilistic history. Solid provenance; property from the life and career of Evander Holyfield, these were previously sold at an auction where Holyfield consigned his personal pieces.”

The starting bid for the gloves is at $10,000 USD and ends in two weeks time at Lelands website. As of writing, the current bit is $12,155 USD.

In other sports news, Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos have agreed to a five-year extension worth $245 million USD.