Biography
Leavander Johnson, born on December 24, 1969, in Las Vegas, Nevada, was an American professional boxer who competed from 1990 to 2005. He held the IBF lightweight title, capturing the championship on September 22, 2001, with a victory over the former titleholder, the Colombian boxer, and then successfully defended it twice. Known for his resilience and technical skills in the ring, Johnson built a reputation as a tough competitor in the lightweight division.
Throughout his career, Johnson achieved a record of 34 wins, 5 losses, with 24 of his victories coming by way of knockout. His accomplishments in the sport were significantly highlighted by his participation in high-profile bouts against notable opponents, including a title defense against the future world champion, Diego Corrales. Johnson's fight against Jesus Chavez in 2005 ultimately marked the tragic turning point in his career when he sustained a severe head injury that led to his passing.
Leavander Johnson's legacy extends beyond his in-ring achievements, as he became an emblem of the sport's risks and the importance of safety measures for boxers. His untimely death on October 22, 2005, as a result of injuries sustained during a bout, prompted renewed discussions regarding athlete safety in boxing. Johnson is remembered not only for his contributions to the sport but also for the impact of his story on boxing regulations and the welfare of professional fighters.