In shortNumber 1 in our ranking is Muhammad Ali, followed by Sugar Ray Robinson and Joe Louis.
The greatest boxers of all time aren’t just the ones who won the most: the quality of their opponents, their technique, their dominance and their influence outside the ring all count. With those criteria we ranked ten legends from different eras and weight classes.
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1. Muhammad Ali
United States · Heavyweight
He was a three-time heavyweight champion and fought legendary bouts such as the Rumble in the Jungle against Foreman in 1974. His stature went far beyond sport.
2. Sugar Ray Robinson
United States · Welterweight and middleweight
Many experts and fighters consider him the best pound-for-pound boxer in history. He combined speed, power and flawless technique.
3. Joe Louis
United States · Heavyweight
He was heavyweight champion from 1937 to 1949, one of the longest reigns in any division. His 1938 win over Max Schmeling carried enormous symbolic weight.
4. Mike Tyson
United States · Heavyweight
In 1986, aged 20, he became the youngest heavyweight champion in history. His power and ferocity made him a global phenomenon.
5. Floyd Mayweather Jr.
United States · Super featherweight to light middleweight
He retired unbeaten with 50 wins. His defence is among the most perfect boxing has seen.
6. Manny Pacquiao
Philippines · Flyweight to light middleweight
He is the only boxer to win world titles in eight weight classes. He is a national hero in the Philippines.
7. Rocky Marciano
United States · Heavyweight
He is the only heavyweight champion to retire undefeated, with 49 wins. His stamina was legendary.
8. Sugar Ray Leonard
United States · Welterweight to light heavyweight
A champion in five weight classes, he starred with Hagler, Hearns and Durán in boxing's great 1980s era. His speed and charisma made him a star.
9. Roberto Durán
Panama · Lightweight to super middleweight
Nicknamed 'Hands of Stone', he is one of the greatest lightweights in history. His professional career spanned five decades.
10. Julio César Chávez
Mexico · Super featherweight to light welterweight
He put together one of the longest unbeaten runs in boxing history. He is the great idol of Mexican boxing.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the greatest boxer of all time?
In our ranking, Muhammad Ali, for his record, his legendary fights and his influence. Sugar Ray Robinson and Joe Louis complete the podium.
Which boxers retired undefeated?
On this list, Rocky Marciano (49 wins) and Floyd Mayweather Jr. (50 wins).
Would you change the order?
Tell us what's missing, what shouldn't be here or what you'd put at number 1.