Heavyweight boxing rankings - February 1973

25 September 202126 June 2026

4 years 10 months

Became champion: 25 September 2021

Won the WBA heavyweight title on 25 September 2021, ending Anthony Joshua's reign.

First shown in September 2021 rankingsView source

7 December 201925 September 2021

1 year 10 months

Became champion: 7 December 2019

Won the WBA heavyweight title on 7 December 2019, ending Andy Ruiz's reign.

First shown in December 2019 rankingsView source

Andy Ruiz

1 June 20197 December 2019

7 months

Became champion: 1 June 2019

Won the WBA heavyweight title on 1 June 2019, ending Anthony Joshua's reign.

First shown in June 2019 rankingsView source

29 April 20171 June 2019

2 years 3 months

Became champion: 29 April 2017

Won the vacant WBA heavyweight title by defeating Wladimir Klitschko.

First shown in April 2017 rankingsView source

28 November 201512 October 2016

1 year

Became champion: 28 November 2015

Won the WBA heavyweight title on 28 November 2015, ending Wladimir Klitschko's reign.

First shown in November 2015 rankingsView source

2 July 201128 November 2015

4 years 5 months

Became champion: 2 July 2011

Won the WBA heavyweight title by defeating David Haye, and was recognized as Super Champion.

First shown in July 2011 rankingsView source

WBA Heavyweight - World Champion

Murat Gassiev

12 December 2025Current

10 months

Became champion: 12 December 2025

Won the title by knocking out Kubrat Pulev in the sixth round.

First shown in December 2025 rankingsView source

Kubrat Pulev

7 December 202412 December 2025

1 year 1 month

Became champion: 7 December 2024

Won the WBA title by unanimous decision over Mahmoud Charr in Sofia.

First shown in December 2024 rankingsView source

Mahmoud Charr

31 August 20237 December 2024

1 year 5 months

Became champion: 31 August 2023

Reinstated as WBA regular heavyweight champion after a court settlement, once Oleksandr Usyk had beaten Daniel Dubois.

First shown in August 2023 rankingsView source

11 June 202231 August 2023

1 year 3 months

Became champion: 11 June 2022

Won the WBA heavyweight title on 11 June 2022, ending Trevor Bryan's reign.

First shown in June 2022 rankingsView source

Trevor Bryan

29 January 202111 June 2022

1 year 6 months

Became champion: 29 January 2021

Won the WBA heavyweight title by defeating Bermane Stiverne.

First shown in February 2021 rankingsView source

Mahmoud Charr

25 November 201729 January 2021

3 years 3 months

Became champion: 25 November 2017

Won the vacant WBA heavyweight title by defeating Alexander Ustinov.

First shown in November 2017 rankingsView source

Ruslan Chagaev

12 May 201625 July 2016

3 months

Became champion: 12 May 2016

Reinstated as WBA heavyweight champion after Lucas Browne was stripped for failing a post-fight drug test.

First shown in May 2016 rankingsView source

Lucas Browne

5 March 201612 May 2016

3 months

Became champion: 5 March 2016

Won the WBA heavyweight title on 5 March 2016, ending Ruslan Chagaev's reign.

First shown in March 2016 rankingsView source

Ruslan Chagaev

6 July 2014January 2016

1 year 7 months

Became champion: 6 July 2014

Won the vacant WBA heavyweight title by defeating Fres Oquendo.

First shown in July 2014 rankingsView source

Alexander Povetkin

27 August 20115 October 2013

2 years 3 months

Became champion: 27 August 2011

Won the vacant WBA regular heavyweight title by defeating Ruslan Chagaev.

First shown in August 2011 rankingsView source

David Haye

7 November 20092 July 2011

1 year 9 months

Became champion: 7 November 2009

Won the WBA heavyweight title on 7 November 2009, ending Nikolai Valuev's reign.

First shown in November 2009 rankingsView source

Nikolai Valuev

30 August 2008September 2009

1 year 2 months

Became champion: 30 August 2008

Won the vacant WBA heavyweight title by defeating John Ruiz.

First shown in August 2008 rankingsView source

Ruslan Chagaev

14 April 200718 July 2008

1 year 4 months

Became champion: 14 April 2007

Won the WBA heavyweight title on 14 April 2007, ending Nikolai Valuev's reign.

First shown in April 2007 rankingsView source

Nikolai Valuev

17 December 200514 April 2007

1 year 5 months

Became champion: 17 December 2005

Won the WBA heavyweight title on 17 December 2005, ending John Ruiz's reign.

First shown in December 2005 rankingsView source

John Ruiz

24 February 2004October 2005

1 year 9 months

Became champion: 24 February 2004

Elevated from interim champion after Roy Jones Jr vacated the WBA heavyweight title to stay at light heavyweight.

First shown in February 2004 rankingsView source

John Ruiz

3 March 2001March 2003

2 years 1 month

Became champion: 3 March 2001

Won the title by defeating Evander Holyfield.

First shown in rankingsView source

Roy Jones Jr

1 March 200324 February 2004

1 year

Became champion: 1 March 2003

Won the WBA heavyweight title on 1 March 2003, ending John Ruiz's reign.

First shown in March 2003 rankingsView source

John Ruiz

3 March 2001January 2003

1 year 11 months

Became champion: 3 March 2001

Won the WBA heavyweight title on 3 March 2001, ending Evander Holyfield's reign.

First shown in March 2001 rankingsView source

12 August 20003 March 2001

8 months

Became champion: 12 August 2000

Won the vacant WBA heavyweight title by defeating John Ruiz.

First shown in August 2000 rankingsView source

13 November 199912 April 2000

6 months

Became champion: 13 November 1999

Won the WBA heavyweight title on 13 November 1999, ending Evander Holyfield's reign.

First shown in January 2000 rankingsView source

9 November 1996November 1999

3 years 1 month

Became champion: 9 November 1996

Won the title by defeating Mike Tyson.

First shown in rankingsView source

7 September 1996November 1996

3 months

Became champion: 7 September 1996

Won the title by defeating Bruce Seldon.

First shown in rankingsView source

Bruce Seldon

8 April 1995September 1996

1 year 6 months

Became champion: 8 April 1995

Won the vacant title by defeating Tony Tucker.

First shown in rankingsView source

5 November 1994March 1995

5 months

Became champion: 5 November 1994

Won the title by defeating Michael Moorer.

First shown in rankingsView source

22 April 1994November 1994

8 months

Became champion: 22 April 1994

Won the title by defeating Evander Holyfield.

First shown in rankingsView source

6 November 1993April 1994

6 months

Became champion: 6 November 1993

Won the title by defeating Riddick Bowe.

First shown in rankingsView source

13 November 1992November 1993

1 year 1 month

Became champion: 13 November 1992

Won the title by defeating Evander Holyfield.

First shown in rankingsView source

25 October 1990November 1992

2 years 2 months

Became champion: 25 October 1990

Won the title by defeating Buster Douglas.

First shown in rankingsView source

James Douglas

11 February 1990October 1990

9 months

Became champion: 11 February 1990

Won the title by defeating Mike Tyson.

First shown in rankingsView source

7 March 1987February 1990

3 years

Became champion: 7 March 1987

Won the title by defeating James Smith.

First shown in rankingsView source

James Smith

12 December 1986March 1987

4 months

Became champion: 12 December 1986

Won the title by defeating Tim Witherspoon.

First shown in rankingsView source

Tim Witherspoon

17 January 1986December 1986

1 year

Became champion: 17 January 1986

Won the title by defeating Tony Tubbs.

First shown in rankingsView source

Tony Tubbs

29 April 1985January 1986

10 months

Became champion: 29 April 1985

Won the title by defeating Greg Page.

First shown in rankingsView source

Greg Page

1 December 1984April 1985

5 months

Became champion: 1 December 1984

Won the title by defeating Gerrie Coetzee.

First shown in rankingsView source

Gerrie Coetzee

23 September 1983December 1984

1 year 4 months

Became champion: 23 September 1983

Won the title by defeating Michael Dokes.

First shown in rankingsView source

Michael Dokes

10 December 1982September 1983

10 months

Became champion: 10 December 1982

Won the title by defeating Mike Weaver.

First shown in rankingsView source

Mike Weaver

31 March 1980December 1982

2 years 10 months

Became champion: 31 March 1980

Won the title by defeating John Tate.

First shown in rankingsView source

John Tate

20 October 1979March 1980

6 months

Became champion: 20 October 1979

Won the vacant title by defeating Gerrie Coetzee.

First shown in rankingsView source

15 September 1978July 1979

11 months

Became champion: 15 September 1978

Won the title by defeating Leon Spinks.

First shown in rankingsView source

Leon Spinks

15 February 1978September 1978

8 months

Became champion: 15 February 1978

Won the title by defeating Muhammad Ali.

First shown in rankingsView source

30 October 1974February 1978

3 years 5 months

Became champion: 30 October 1974

Won the title by defeating George Foreman.

First shown in rankingsView source

22 January 1973October 1974

1 year 10 months

Became champion: 22 January 1973

Won the title by defeating Joe Frazier.

First shown in rankingsView source

Joe Frazier

16 February 1970January 1973

3 years

Became champion: 16 February 1970

Won the title by defeating Jimmy Ellis.

First shown in rankingsView source

Jimmy Ellis

27 April 1968February 1970

1 year 11 months

Became champion: 27 April 1968

Won the vacant title by defeating Jerry Quarry.

First shown in rankingsView source

6 February 1967April 1967

3 months

Became champion: 6 February 1967

Won the title by defeating Ernie Terrell.

First shown in rankingsView source

Ernie Terrell

5 March 1965February 1967

2 years

Became champion: 5 March 1965

Won the vacant title by defeating Eddie Machen.

First shown in rankingsView source

25 February 1964September 1964

8 months

Became champion: 25 February 1964

Won the title by defeating Sonny Liston.

First shown in rankingsView source

Sonny Liston

25 September 1962February 1964

1 year 6 months

Became champion: 25 September 1962

Won the title by defeating Floyd Patterson.

First shown in rankingsView source

NBA / WBA

20 June 1960September 1962

2 years 4 months

Became champion: 20 June 1960

Won the title by defeating Ingemar Johansson.

First shown in rankingsView source

Ingemar Johansson

NBA

26 June 1959June 1960

1 year 1 month

Became champion: 26 June 1959

Won the title by defeating Floyd Patterson.

First shown in rankingsView source

NBA

30 November 1956June 1959

2 years 8 months

Became champion: 30 November 1956

Won the vacant title by defeating Archie Moore.

First shown in rankingsView source

Rocky Marciano

NBA

23 September 1952April 1956

3 years 8 months

Became champion: 23 September 1952

Won the title by defeating Jersey Joe Walcott.

First shown in rankingsView source

Jersey Joe Walcott

NBA

18 July 1951September 1952

1 year 3 months

Became champion: 18 July 1951

Won the title by defeating Ezzard Charles.

First shown in rankingsView source

Ezzard Charles

NBA

22 June 1949July 1951

2 years 2 months

Became champion: 22 June 1949

Won the vacant title by defeating Jersey Joe Walcott.

First shown in rankingsView source

Joe Louis

NBA

22 June 1937March 1949

11 years 10 months

Became champion: 22 June 1937

Won the title by defeating James J. Braddock.

First shown in rankingsView source

Jim Braddock

NBA

13 June 1935June 1937

2 years 1 month

Became champion: 13 June 1935

Won the title by defeating Max Baer.

First shown in rankingsView source

Max Baer

NBA

14 June 1934June 1935

1 year 1 month

Became champion: 14 June 1934

Won the title by defeating Primo Carnera.

First shown in rankingsView source

Primo Carnera

NBA

29 June 1933June 1934

1 year 1 month

Became champion: 29 June 1933

Won the title by defeating Jack Sharkey.

First shown in rankingsView source

Jack Sharkey

NBA

21 June 1932June 1933

1 year 1 month

Became champion: 21 June 1932

Won the title by defeating Max Schmeling.

First shown in rankingsView source

Max Schmeling

NBA

12 June 1930June 1932

2 years 1 month

Became champion: 12 June 1930

Won the vacant title by defeating Jack Sharkey.

First shown in rankingsView source

Gene Tunney

NBA

23 September 1926July 1928

1 year 11 months

Became champion: 23 September 1926

Won the title by defeating Jack Dempsey.

First shown in rankingsView source

Jack Dempsey

NBA

January 1921September 1926

5 years 9 months

WBA Heavyweight - Interim Champion

Fabio Wardley

7 June 202525 October 2025

5 months

Became champion: 7 June 2025

Won the vacant interim title by knocking out Justis Huni in the tenth round at Portman Road in Ipswich.

First shown in June 2025 rankingsView source

WBA Heavyweight Title History

WBC Heavyweight Title History

Champions who have held each belt, from oldest to most recent. Title history only goes back as far as our earliest WBC monthly rankings (July 1963).

WBC Heavyweight - World Champion

Agit Kabayel

27 June 2026Current

5 months

Became champion: 27 June 2026

Promoted from Interim Champion after Oleksandr Usyk vacated the WBC heavyweight title, with the WBC recognising him as World Champion effective 27 June 2026.

First shown in July 2026 rankingsView source

18 May 202427 June 2026

2 years 2 months

Became champion: 18 May 2024

Won the WBC heavyweight title by split decision over Tyson Fury at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

First shown in June 2024 rankingsView source

22 February 202018 May 2024

4 years 4 months

Became champion: 22 February 2020

Won the WBC heavyweight title by knocking out Deontay Wilder in the seventh round.

First shown in February 2022 rankingsView source

Deontay Wilder

17 January 2015February 2020

5 years 2 months

Became champion: 17 January 2015

Won the WBC heavyweight title by unanimous decision over Bermane Stiverne.

First shown in May 2015 rankingsView source

Bermane Stiverne

10 May 2014January 2015

9 months

Became champion: 10 May 2014

Won the vacant WBC heavyweight title by stopping Chris Arreola in the sixth round in Los Angeles.

First shown in June 2014 rankingsView source

11 October 200816 December 2013

5 years 3 months

Became champion: 11 October 2008

Won the WBC heavyweight title by stopping Samuel Peter in the eighth round in Berlin.

First shown in March 2009 rankingsView source

Samuel Peter

8 March 2008October 2008

8 months

Became champion: 8 March 2008

Won the WBC heavyweight title by stopping Oleg Maskaev in the sixth round in Cancun.

First shown in August 2008 rankingsView source

Oleg Maskaev

12 August 2006March 2008

1 year 8 months

Became champion: 12 August 2006

Won the title by defeating Hasim Rahman.

First shown in rankingsView source

Hasim Rahman

9 November 2005August 2006

10 months

Became champion: 9 November 2005

Became WBC Heavyweight Champion after Vitali Klitschko retired.

First shown in rankingsView source

24 April 2004November 2005

1 year 8 months

Became champion: 24 April 2004

Won the vacant title by defeating Corrie Sanders.

First shown in rankingsView source

17 November 2001February 2004

2 years 4 months

Became champion: 17 November 2001

Won the title by defeating Hasim Rahman.

First shown in rankingsView source

Hasim Rahman

22 April 2001November 2001

8 months

Became champion: 22 April 2001

Won the title by defeating Lennox Lewis.

First shown in rankingsView source

7 February 1997April 2001

4 years 3 months

Became champion: 7 February 1997

Won the vacant title by defeating Oliver McCall.

First shown in rankingsView source

16 March 1996September 1996

7 months

Became champion: 16 March 1996

Won the title by defeating Frank Bruno.

First shown in rankingsView source

Frank Bruno

2 September 1995March 1996

7 months

Became champion: 2 September 1995

Won the title by defeating Oliver McCall.

First shown in rankingsView source

Oliver McCall

24 September 1994September 1995

1 year 1 month

Became champion: 24 September 1994

Won the title by defeating Lennox Lewis.

First shown in rankingsView source

14 December 1992September 1994

1 year 10 months

Became champion: 14 December 1992

Was promoted from WBC No. 1 contender to WBC Heavyweight Champion after Riddick Bowe vacated the title.

First shown in rankingsView source

13 November 1992December 1992

2 months

Became champion: 13 November 1992

Won the title by defeating Evander Holyfield.

First shown in rankingsView source

25 October 1990November 1992

2 years 2 months

Became champion: 25 October 1990

Won the title by defeating Buster Douglas.

First shown in rankingsView source

James Douglas

11 February 1990October 1990

9 months

Became champion: 11 February 1990

Won the title by defeating Mike Tyson.

First shown in rankingsView source

22 November 1986February 1990

3 years 4 months

Became champion: 22 November 1986

Won the title by defeating Trevor Berbick.

First shown in rankingsView source

Trevor Berbick

22 March 1986November 1986

9 months

Became champion: 22 March 1986

Won the title by defeating Pinklon Thomas.

First shown in rankingsView source

Pinklon Thomas

31 August 1984March 1986

1 year 8 months

Became champion: 31 August 1984

Won the title by defeating Tim Witherspoon.

First shown in rankingsView source

Tim Witherspoon

9 March 1984August 1984

6 months

Became champion: 9 March 1984

Won the vacant title by defeating Greg Page.

First shown in rankingsView source

Larry Holmes

9 June 1978December 1983

5 years 7 months

Became champion: 9 June 1978

Won the title by defeating Ken Norton.

First shown in rankingsView source

Ken Norton

18 March 1978June 1978

4 months

Became champion: 18 March 1978

Was promoted from WBC No. 1 contender to WBC Heavyweight Champion.

First shown in rankingsView source

Leon Spinks

15 February 1978March 1978

2 months

Became champion: 15 February 1978

Won the title by defeating Muhammad Ali.

First shown in rankingsView source

30 October 1974February 1978

3 years 5 months

Became champion: 30 October 1974

Won the title by defeating George Foreman.

First shown in rankingsView source

22 January 1973October 1974

1 year 10 months

Became champion: 22 January 1973

Won the title by defeating Joe Frazier.

First shown in rankingsView source

Joe Frazier

16 February 1970January 1973

3 years

Became champion: 16 February 1970

Won the vacant title by defeating Jimmy Ellis.

First shown in rankingsView source

25 February 1964March 1969

5 years 2 months

Became champion: 25 February 1964

Won the title by defeating Sonny Liston.

First shown in rankingsView source

Sonny Liston

22 July 1963February 1964

8 months

Became champion: 22 July 1963

Won the title by defeating Floyd Patterson.

First shown in rankingsView source

WBC Heavyweight - Interim Champion

Agit Kabayel

22 February 202527 June 2026

1 year 5 months

Became champion: 22 February 2025

Won the vacant interim title by knocking out Zhilei Zhang in the sixth round in Riyadh.

First shown in March 2025 rankingsView source

Dillian Whyte

20 July 201923 April 2022

2 years 10 months

Became champion: 20 July 2019

Won the vacant interim title by defeating Oscar Rivas, with the WBC confirming that recognition after lifting a provisional suspension.

First shown in January 2020 rankingsView source

WBC Heavyweight Title History

IBF Heavyweight Title History

Champions who have held each belt, from oldest to most recent. Title history only goes back as far as our earliest IBF monthly rankings (December 1983).

IBF Heavyweight - World Champion

Filip Hrgovic

29 August 2026Current

3 months

Became champion: 29 August 2026

Won the vacant title by stopping Moses Itauma in the ninth round in London.

First shown in August 2026 rankingsView source

19 July 202526 June 2026

1 year

Became champion: 19 July 2025

Won the IBF title by knocking out Daniel Dubois in the fifth round at Wembley Stadium, and kept the WBA, WBC and WBO titles.

First shown in July 2025 rankingsView source

26 June 202419 July 2025

1 year 2 months

Became champion: 26 June 2024

Recognized as IBF champion after Oleksandr Usyk relinquished the title, having previously held it on an interim basis.

First shown in June 2024 rankingsView source

25 September 202126 June 2024

2 years 10 months

Became champion: 25 September 2021

Won the IBF heavyweight title on 25 September 2021, ending Anthony Joshua's reign.

First shown in September 2021 rankingsView source

7 December 201925 September 2021

1 year 10 months

Became champion: 7 December 2019

Won the IBF heavyweight title on 7 December 2019, ending Andy Ruiz's reign.

First shown in December 2019 rankingsView source

Andy Ruiz

1 June 20197 December 2019

7 months

Became champion: 1 June 2019

Won the IBF heavyweight title on 1 June 2019, ending Anthony Joshua's reign.

First shown in June 2019 rankingsView source

9 April 2016April 2019

3 years 1 month

Became champion: 9 April 2016

Won the IBF heavyweight title on 9 April 2016, ending Charles Martin's reign.

First shown in April 2016 rankingsView source

Charles Martin

16 January 2016February 2016

2 months

Became champion: 16 January 2016

Won the vacant IBF heavyweight title on 16 January 2016 by defeating Vyacheslav Glazkov.

First shown in January 2016 rankingsView source

28 November 20158 December 2015

2 months

Became champion: 28 November 2015

Won the IBF heavyweight title on 28 November 2015, ending Wladimir Klitschko's reign.

First shown in November 2015 rankingsView source

22 April 200628 November 2015

9 years 8 months

Became champion: 22 April 2006

Won the IBF heavyweight title on 22 April 2006, ending Chris Byrd's reign.

First shown in May 2006 rankingsView source

Chris Byrd

14 December 2002February 2006

3 years 3 months

Became champion: 14 December 2002

Won the vacant title by defeating Evander Holyfield.

First shown in rankingsView source

17 November 2001September 2002

11 months

Became champion: 17 November 2001

Won the title by defeating Hasim Rahman.

First shown in rankingsView source

Hasim Rahman

22 April 2001November 2001

8 months

Became champion: 22 April 2001

Won the title by defeating Lennox Lewis.

First shown in rankingsView source

13 November 1999April 2001

1 year 6 months

Became champion: 13 November 1999

Won the title by defeating Evander Holyfield.

First shown in rankingsView source

8 November 1997November 1999

2 years 1 month

Became champion: 8 November 1997

Won the title by defeating Michael Moorer.

First shown in rankingsView source

22 June 1996November 1997

1 year 6 months

Became champion: 22 June 1996

Won the vacant title by defeating Axel Schulz.

First shown in rankingsView source

5 November 1994June 1995

8 months

Became champion: 5 November 1994

Won the title by defeating Michael Moorer.

First shown in rankingsView source

22 April 1994November 1994

8 months

Became champion: 22 April 1994

Won the title by defeating Evander Holyfield.

First shown in rankingsView source

6 November 1993April 1994

6 months

Became champion: 6 November 1993

Won the title by defeating Riddick Bowe.

First shown in rankingsView source

13 November 1992November 1993

1 year 1 month

Became champion: 13 November 1992

Won the title by defeating Evander Holyfield.

First shown in rankingsView source

25 October 1990November 1992

2 years 2 months

Became champion: 25 October 1990

Won the title by defeating Buster Douglas.

First shown in rankingsView source

James Douglas

11 February 1990October 1990

9 months

Became champion: 11 February 1990

Won the title by defeating Mike Tyson.

First shown in rankingsView source

1 August 1987February 1990

2 years 7 months

Became champion: 1 August 1987

Won the title by defeating Tony Tucker.

First shown in rankingsView source

Tony Tucker

30 May 1987August 1987

4 months

Became champion: 30 May 1987

Won the vacant title by defeating Buster Douglas.

First shown in rankingsView source

Michael Spinks

21 September 1985February 1987

1 year 6 months

Became champion: 21 September 1985

Won the title by defeating Larry Holmes.

First shown in rankingsView source

Larry Holmes

11 December 1983September 1985

1 year 10 months

Became champion: 11 December 1983

First shown in rankingsView source

IBF Heavyweight - Interim Champion

1 June 202426 June 2024

1 month

Became champion: 1 June 2024

Won the vacant interim title by defeating Filip Hrgovic.

First shown in June 2024 rankingsView source

IBF Heavyweight Title History

WBO Heavyweight Title History

Champions who have held each belt, from oldest to most recent. Title history only goes back as far as our earliest WBO monthly rankings (May 1989).

WBO Heavyweight - Super Champion

25 September 202117 November 2025

4 years 3 months

Became champion: 25 September 2021

Won the WBO heavyweight title on 25 September 2021, ending Anthony Joshua's reign, and the October 2021 WBO rankings listed him as Super Champion.

First shown in July 2022 rankingsView source

2 August 20181 June 2019

11 months

Became champion: 2 August 2018

Elevated to WBO heavyweight Super Champion, reported on 2 August 2018.

First shown in November 2018 rankingsView source

13 March 200828 November 2015

7 years 9 months

Became champion: 13 March 2008

Awarded WBO heavyweight Super Champion status on 13 March 2008.

First shown in July 2008 rankingsView source

WBO Heavyweight - World Champion

9 May 2026Current

6 months

Became champion: 9 May 2026

Won the title by stopping Fabio Wardley in the eleventh round.

First shown in May 2026 rankingsView source

Fabio Wardley

21 November 20259 May 2026

7 months

Became champion: 21 November 2025

Elevated from Interim Champion by the WBO following Oleksandr Usyk's relinquishment of the title.

First shown in November 2025 rankingsView source

7 December 201925 September 2021

1 year 10 months

Became champion: 7 December 2019

Won the WBO heavyweight title on 7 December 2019, ending Andy Ruiz's reign.

First shown in December 2019 rankingsView source

Andy Ruiz

1 June 20197 December 2019

7 months

Became champion: 1 June 2019

Won the WBO heavyweight title on 1 June 2019, ending Anthony Joshua's reign.

First shown in June 2019 rankingsView source

31 March 20182 August 2018

6 months

Became champion: 31 March 2018

Won the WBO heavyweight title on 31 March 2018, ending Joseph Parker's reign.

First shown in April 2018 rankingsView source

Joseph Parker

10 December 201631 March 2018

1 year 4 months

Became champion: 10 December 2016

Won the vacant WBO heavyweight title on 10 December 2016 by defeating Andy Ruiz.

First shown in December 2016 rankingsView source

28 November 201512 October 2016

1 year

Became champion: 28 November 2015

Won the WBO heavyweight title on 28 November 2015, ending Wladimir Klitschko's reign.

First shown in December 2015 rankingsView source

23 February 200813 March 2008

2 months

Became champion: 23 February 2008

Won the WBO heavyweight title on 23 February 2008, ending Sultan Ibragimov's reign.

First shown in March 2008 rankingsView source

Sultan Ibragimov

2 June 200723 February 2008

9 months

Became champion: 2 June 2007

Won the WBO heavyweight title on 2 June 2007, ending Shannon Briggs's reign.

First shown in June 2007 rankingsView source

Shannon Briggs

4 November 20062 June 2007

8 months

Became champion: 4 November 2006

Won the WBO heavyweight title on 4 November 2006, ending Siarhei Liakhovich's reign.

First shown in November 2006 rankingsView source

Siarhei Liakhovich

1 April 20064 November 2006

8 months

Became champion: 1 April 2006

Won the WBO heavyweight title on 1 April 2006, ending Lamon Brewster's reign.

First shown in April 2006 rankingsView source

Lamon Brewster

10 April 20041 April 2006

2 years 1 month

Became champion: 10 April 2004

Won the vacant WBO heavyweight title on 10 April 2004 by defeating Wladimir Klitschko.

First shown in April 2004 rankingsView source

Corrie Sanders

8 March 20037 October 2003

8 months

Became champion: 8 March 2003

Won the WBO heavyweight title on 8 March 2003, ending Wladimir Klitschko's reign.

First shown in March 2003 rankingsView source

14 October 20008 March 2003

2 years 6 months

Became champion: 14 October 2000

Won the WBO heavyweight title on 14 October 2000, ending Chris Byrd's reign.

First shown in October 2000 rankingsView source

Chris Byrd

1 April 200014 October 2000

7 months

Became champion: 1 April 2000

Won the WBO heavyweight title on 1 April 2000, ending Vitali Klitschko's reign.

First shown in April 2000 rankingsView source

26 June 19991 April 2000

11 months

Became champion: 26 June 1999

Won the WBO heavyweight title on 26 June 1999, ending Herbie Hide's reign.

First shown in January 2000 rankingsView source

Herbie Hide

28 June 1997June 1999

2 years 1 month

Became champion: 28 June 1997

Won the vacant title by defeating Tony Tucker.

First shown in rankingsView source

Henry Akinwande

29 June 1996January 1997

8 months

Became champion: 29 June 1996

Won the vacant title by defeating Jeremy Williams.

First shown in rankingsView source

11 March 1995May 1996

1 year 3 months

Became champion: 11 March 1995

Won the title by defeating Herbie Hide.

First shown in rankingsView source

Herbie Hide

19 March 1994March 1995

1 year 1 month

Became champion: 19 March 1994

Won the title by defeating Michael Bentt.

First shown in rankingsView source

Michael Bentt

29 October 1993March 1994

6 months

Became champion: 29 October 1993

Won the title by defeating Tommy Morrison.

First shown in rankingsView source

Tommy Morrison

7 June 1993October 1993

5 months

Became champion: 7 June 1993

Won the vacant title by defeating George Foreman.

First shown in rankingsView source

15 May 1992February 1993

10 months

Became champion: 15 May 1992

Won the vacant title by defeating Bert Cooper.

First shown in rankingsView source

Ray Mercer

11 January 1991December 1991

1 year

Became champion: 11 January 1991

Won the title by defeating Francesco Damiani.

First shown in rankingsView source

Francesco Damiani

6 May 1989January 1991

1 year 9 months

Became champion: 6 May 1989

Won the title by defeating Johnny du Plooy.

First shown in rankingsView source

WBO Heavyweight - Interim Champion

Joseph Parker

8 March 202425 October 2025

1 year 8 months

Became champion: 8 March 2024

Won the interim title by majority decision over Zhilei Zhang in Riyadh.

First shown in March 2024 rankingsView source

Zhilei Zhang

15 April 20238 March 2024

1 year

Became champion: 15 April 2023

Won the interim title by stopping Joe Joyce in the sixth round.

First shown in April 2023 rankingsView source

Joe Joyce

24 September 202215 April 2023

8 months

Became champion: 24 September 2022

Won the vacant interim title by stopping Joseph Parker in the 11th round.

First shown in October 2022 rankingsView source

WBO Heavyweight Title History

RING Heavyweight Title History

Champions who have held each belt, from oldest to most recent. Title history only goes back as far as our earliest RING monthly rankings (January 1922).

RING Heavyweight - World Champion

20 August 2022Current

4 years 3 months

Became champion: 20 August 2022

Won the vacant Ring heavyweight title by defeating Anthony Joshua in their rematch in Jeddah, after Tyson Fury vacated the championship.

First shown in September 2022 rankingsView source

22 February 2020July 2022

2 years 6 months

Became champion: 22 February 2020

Won the Ring heavyweight title on 22 February 2020 by defeating Deontay Wilder.

First shown in February 2020 rankingsView source

28 November 2015December 2017

2 years 2 months

Became champion: 28 November 2015

Won the Ring heavyweight title on 28 November 2015, ending Wladimir Klitschko's reign.

First shown in January 2016 rankingsView source

20 June 2009November 2015

6 years 6 months

Became champion: 20 June 2009

Won the Ring heavyweight title on 20 June 2009 by defeating Ruslan Chagaev.

First shown in June 2009 rankingsView source

24 April 20049 November 2005

1 year 8 months

Became champion: 24 April 2004

Won the Ring heavyweight title on 24 April 2004 by defeating Corrie Sanders.

First shown in April 2004 rankingsView source

2 December 20016 February 2004

2 years 3 months

Became champion: 2 December 2001

Awarded The Ring heavyweight title on 2 December 2001.

First shown in December 2001 rankingsView source

27 June 1988February 1989

9 months

Became champion: 27 June 1988

Won the Ring heavyweight title on 27 June 1988, ending Michael Spinks's reign.

First shown in June 1988 rankingsView source

Michael Spinks

October 198527 June 1988

2 years 9 months

Larry Holmes

31 March 198021 September 1985

5 years 7 months

Became champion: 31 March 1980

Awarded The Ring heavyweight title on 31 March 1980.

First shown in March 1980 rankingsView source

15 September 19783 July 1979

11 months

Became champion: 15 September 1978

Won the Ring heavyweight title on 15 September 1978, ending Leon Spinks's reign.

First shown in September 1978 rankingsView source

Leon Spinks

15 February 1978July 1978

6 months

Became champion: 15 February 1978

Won the Ring heavyweight title on 15 February 1978, ending Muhammad Ali's reign.

First shown in February 1978 rankingsView source

30 October 1974November 1977

3 years 2 months

Became champion: 30 October 1974

Won the Ring heavyweight title on 30 October 1974, ending George Foreman's reign.

First shown in November 1974 rankingsView source

22 January 197330 October 1974

1 year 10 months

Became champion: 22 January 1973

Won the Ring heavyweight title on 22 January 1973, ending Joe Frazier's reign.

First shown in February 1973 rankingsView source

Joe Frazier

13 March 1970November 1972

2 years 9 months

Became champion: 13 March 1970

Recognized as The Ring heavyweight champion on 13 March 1970 after Muhammad Ali retired.

First shown in March 1970 rankingsView source

25 February 196413 March 1970

6 years 2 months

Became champion: 25 February 1964

Won the Ring heavyweight title on 25 February 1964, ending Sonny Liston's reign.

First shown in March 1964 rankingsView source

Sonny Liston

25 September 1962January 1964

1 year 5 months

Became champion: 25 September 1962

Won the Ring heavyweight title on 25 September 1962, ending Floyd Patterson's reign.

First shown in September 1962 rankingsView source

20 June 196025 September 1962

2 years 4 months

Became champion: 20 June 1960

Won the Ring heavyweight title on 20 June 1960, ending Ingemar Johansson's reign.

First shown in June 1960 rankingsView source

Ingemar Johansson

26 June 195920 June 1960

1 year 1 month

Became champion: 26 June 1959

Won the Ring heavyweight title on 26 June 1959, ending Floyd Patterson's reign.

First shown in June 1959 rankingsView source