Lennox Lewis delivered a crushing answer to his critics as he flattened Hasim Rahman in their heavyweight rematch on 17 November 2001, reclaiming the division’s top prizes with a ruthless knockout at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. Billed as Final Judgment, the bout proved exactly that, as Lewis wiped away the memory of his shock defeat earlier in the year with a performance that blended discipline, authority and concussive power.

Seven months earlier in South Africa, Lewis had been caught cold and stopped in the fifth round, surrendering his titles in one of boxing’s great upsets. That loss, his previous fight, became the fuel for a far more focused champion second time around. At 36, and weighing 246 pounds, Lewis entered the ring determined to impose order from the opening bell against a confident Rahman, who tipped the scales at 236 and was making the first defence of his WBC and IBF crowns.

From the outset, the Londoner boxed with clarity and patience. His long jab dictated range and tempo, repeatedly halting Rahman’s attempts to build momentum. The Baltimore man found himself forced backwards, his right hand smothered by distance and timing rather than fire-fighting exchanges. A facial injury suffered early only added to his discomfort as Lewis steadily racked up rounds.

All three judges had the challenger well ahead after three sessions, reflecting Lewis’ command of the contest. He was sharper, more accurate and far busier than in their first encounter, landing cleanly while avoiding the reckless moments that had cost him dearly before. The fight had the feel of inevitability as Lewis’ confidence grew.

That sense was confirmed midway through the fourth round. Lewis closed the show with a perfectly judged combination, snapping Rahman’s head with a hook before detonating a thunderous right hand. The champion crashed to the canvas and, despite hauling himself upright, could not beat the count as referee Joe Cortez waved it off at 1:29 of the round.

The knockout was immediate and decisive, silencing any debate about the legitimacy of the first result. It also earned widespread acclaim, later being recognised as Knockout of the Year, a fitting accolade for a finish that showcased Lewis at his most destructive. Statistically, the gap was clear too, with Lewis landing significantly more punches and controlling exchanges from bell to bell.

In regaining the heavyweight titles, Lennox Lewis reminded the boxing world of his pedigree and resilience, while Hasim Rahman was left to reflect on a night where preparation and precision made the difference. Their rivalry, settled emphatically in Las Vegas, stands as a classic lesson in how champions respond when pride and legacy are placed firmly on the line.