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AP - New heavyweight champion of the world, Larry Holmes, made a heroes return to Easton, Pennsylvania today. He was mobbed by fans as he cruised through the streets in an open topped sports car, proudly displaying his world title and flanked by his trainer Richie Giachetti, who has been with him from the beginning.
Holmes took the title from Riddick Bowe on Saturday night via twelfth round stoppage. Holmes was leading comfortably on points at the time, although it was a dreary fight. However, it will go down in the record books as being the first fifteen round fight in GBA history.
"This is a dream come true," the new champ told reporters. "I knew I'd one day become champion of the world. I'm going to be a true champion. A champion these people can be proud of. I'll defend against all comers."
When asked who his first defence would be against, Holmes was unsure. Giachetti interjected. "We're looking at a number of opponents at the minute. Something will be concrete soon. We're hoping to make his first defense right here in Easton."
Holmes' career got of to a shaky start, getting knocked out cold by Mike Weaver in his pro debut, however, he has gone undefeated since then,including a draw with Bowe. He also won the vacant North American title when he beat former world champion 'Iron' Mike Tyson over twelve cracking rounds in December, 2005. He has now vacated that title.
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