In the late 1980s and 1990s, Atlantic City emerged as the epicenter of the boxing world, thanks to the efforts of one man – Donald Trump. The real estate mogul-turned-president transformed the seaside resort into a hub for some of the most iconic fights in the sport's history, cementing his legacy as a true impresario of the sweet science.

Reviving the Glory Days of Boxing in Atlantic City

The Tyson Takeover

Mike Tyson's meteoric rise to the top of the heavyweight division in the late 1980s coincided with Trump's ascendance as a major player in the boxing world. The Brooklyn-born knockout artist found a willing partner in Trump, who hosted several of Tyson's most memorable fights at his Atlantic City properties. From the demolition of Larry Holmes to the lightning-fast destruction of Michael Spinks, Tyson's dominance was on full display in the Trump-backed events that captivated the nation.

The Comeback King

While Tyson's reign as the undisputed heavyweight champion was the main attraction, Trump also played a pivotal role in the comeback of another legendary fighter – George Foreman. The former heavyweight titleholder, who had been out of the sport for a decade, returned to the ring in Atlantic City, where he scored a hard-fought victory over Gerry Cooney. This win reignited Foreman's passion for the sport and set the stage for his historic championship triumph years later, cementing his status as one of the most resilient athletes in boxing history.

The Battle of the Ages

Trump's influence in the boxing world extended beyond just hosting events. He also played a key role in promoting the "Battle of the Ages" between Evander Holyfield and George Foreman in 1991. This record-breaking pay-per-view event saw the undefeated Holyfield defend his heavyweight title against the 42-year-old Foreman, who was making a late-career surge. Trump's involvement in the promotion and hosting of the victory party for Holyfield at the Trump Tower underscored his status as a true impresario of the sport.

The Decline of Atlantic City's Boxing Dominance

For nearly a decade, Atlantic City reigned supreme as the capital of the boxing world, with Trump at the center of it all. The city's casinos and hotels played host to some of the most iconic fights in the sport's history, cementing its reputation as a must-visit destination for fight fans. However, as the 21st century dawned, the city's grip on the boxing world began to loosen, with other venues and promoters vying for the spotlight. While Atlantic City remains an important part of the sport's landscape, it may never again reach the dizzying heights it achieved during the Trump-led boxing boom of the late 20th century.