Light Heavyweight Champions
A light heavyweight world champion holds one of the four belts sanctioned at 175 lb. This guide explains the belts, the lineal claim and the division's all-time greats. We name retired figures only; for current holders and live prices, check the sportsbook.
The four belts
The WBC, WBA, IBF and WBO each sanction a world title at light heavyweight. Hold two or more and you are unified; hold all four and you are undisputed. Separately, the lineal title follows "the man who beat the man" and does not depend on any single body. Unification and undisputed clashes tend to be the division's biggest betting events; see our title fights guide.
All-time greats
The 175 lb division has a deep history. Archie Moore held the title for years and remains among the most prolific punchers in the sport's records. Bob Foster, Michael Spinks, Ezzard Charles and Roy Jones Jr all left a mark here. South Africa has produced world champions, though its title tradition sits mainly at heavyweight and in the lighter divisions rather than at 175 lb. To rank fighters across weights, see pound-for-pound betting.
Frequently asked questions
What is an undisputed light heavyweight champion?
A fighter who holds all four world belts at 175 lb at the same time, the WBC, WBA, IBF and WBO.
Has South Africa had a light heavyweight world champion?
There is no widely recognised South African world champion at light heavyweight. South Africa's title tradition has been stronger at heavyweight and in the lighter divisions.