Tony Tucker is a former top heavyweight boxer who was born on December 27, 1958, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA. He is best known for his fight against Mike Tyson in 1987, which he lost but was considered one of Tyson's toughest opponents. During his career, Tucker had a record of 58 wins (47 by knockout), 7 losses, and 1 draw. He also held the IBF heavyweight title from 1987 to 1988.

Tony Tucker begins his professional career

Tucker began his professional career in 1980 with a first-round knockout of Joe Adams. He won his next 13 fights, including victories over James Broad, Floyd Cummings, and Mike White. In 1985, he suffered his first defeat, losing a unanimous decision to Buster Douglas. However, he bounced back with wins over David Bey and James "Bonecrusher" Smith.

IBF Top Ranked Contender

In 1987, Tucker was selected as the IBF's top-ranked contender and earned a shot at the heavyweight title against Mike Tyson. The fight was held on August 1, 1987, in Las Vegas, Nevada, and was for the IBF, WBA, and WBC titles. Despite putting up a strong fight, Tucker lost a unanimous decision to Tyson. The loss was Tucker's first by knockout.

Following his loss to Tyson, Tucker fought several more times, winning most of his fights but also suffering defeats to Lennox Lewis and Bruce Seldon. In 1997, he announced his retirement from boxing, finishing his career with a record of 58-7-1.

Skilled and Respected

Despite not achieving the same level of fame as some of his contemporaries, Tucker was a skilled and respected fighter. In a 2016 article for The Ring magazine, former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes named Tucker as one of the best opponents he had ever faced. "He was a tough fighter," Holmes said. "He had a good jab, good movement. He was a good fighter."

Retirement

In retirement, Tucker has remained involved in boxing as a trainer and manager. He has also spoken out about the dangers of boxing and the need for greater safety measures in the sport.

In conclusion, Tony Tucker was a formidable heavyweight boxer who fought some of the best fighters of his era. While he is perhaps best known for his bout against Mike Tyson, Tucker had a long and successful career and is remembered as a skilled and respected fighter.

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