No one here gets out alive, says Lewis

No one here gets out alive, says Lewis
AGENCE FRANCE PRESSE

New York, April 30: Lennox Lewis flattened the notion he lacked a champion's heart and knockout power by pummeling previously unbeaten challenger Michael Grant into submission.

After two tedious tactical fights with Evander Holyfield and a lackluster 12-round triumph by decision in his past three outings, Lewis was anxious to prove he could be an exciting fighter. Mission accomplished.

``Michael Grant was the perfect showcase for my talent,'' Lewis said. ``This was an opportunity to show my aggressive side. I felt if I had the opportunity to land a good shot, not many people can withstand my power.

``I realized if I kept punching, he was going to be hurting. All I had to do was keep hitting him. If he dared get up against me I would just hit him more and more. It was just going to be harder and harder for him.''

``Lennox showed me openings. I wanted to take advantage of them and knock his head off,'' Grant said. ``He knew I would open up and he would be able to take a step back and take advantage.

``I took the wrong mentality into it. I should have used more of my speed and not take it as a grudge match from the door. I was just too anxious.

``He was swinging wide left hands because he knew I would come at him. He's a smart fighter. He dropped his hands and said, `Take my head off.' I tried and he got me. I just got caught. Lennox is champion for a reason. He's the best.''

Both Lewis and Steward blamed the struggles against Holyfield on the former champion trying to avoid being on the receiving end of Lewis' right hand.

In some ways, beating Holyfield's friend and former sparring partner proved more of a career-defining triumph than the victory last November over Holyfield that ended his 12-year quest to become unified heavyweight champion.

``The two fights with Evander were just one step, one step to greatness,'' Lewis said. ``I like to compare myself to fine wine. I get better with age.''