Heavyweight Punchers Known for Raw Power
When fans talk about raw knockout power, though, the name that usually comes up first is Earnie Shavers. Known as the “Black Destroyer,” Shavers finished his career with 70 knockouts in 76 wins, earning a reputation as one of the hardest punchers the heavyweight division has ever seen.
Former heavyweight champion Sonny Liston also belongs on any power list. Liston scored 39 knockouts in 50 wins, including a brutal first-round stoppage of Wayne Bethea, who famously showed the referee and his trainer teeth loosened by Liston’s jab before refusing to continue.
Modern fans point to Deontay Wilder, the 2008 Olympic bronze medallist, who stopped 43 of his 44 defeated opponents. His power carried him to a world heavyweight title and made him one of the most feared punchers of his era.
Speed Combined With Power
Then there’s Mike Tyson, whose speed made his power even more dangerous. Tyson recorded 44 stoppages in 50 wins and once said that Donovan Ruddock hit him harder than anyone he faced.
Knockout artists weren’t limited to the heavyweight division. Mexico’s Ruben Olivares finished 79 of his 89 victories inside the distance, becoming one of the most devastating punchers ever at bantamweight and featherweight.
Heavyweight Lamar Clark posted eye-catching numbers as well, stopping 42 of his 43 opponents, though much of his opposition was considered limited. After winning his debut by decision, Clark went on a run of 41 straight knockouts.
Undefeated and Championship-Level Punchers
Undefeated champion Rocky Marciano retired at 49-0 with 43 stoppages, while George Foreman, the 1968 Olympic gold medallist, ended 68 of his 76 wins by knockout across two championship reigns.
Former light heavyweight champion Bob Foster rounds out the list, finishing 46 of his 56 victories early and earning respect as one of the division’s most powerful punchers.
Those are some of the most obvious names. There are others, depending on era and weight. The list is never really finished.
