| Prayer was a major part of Holyfield's strategy for fighting Tyson, a formidable boxer who puts many fighters away in the first round. "I prayed during training, I prayed when I got into the ring, I prayed when I was fighting him," Holyfield said.
On many occasions Holyfield has said, "Boxing is 90 percent spiritual and 10 % physical."
"It's the spiritual aspect that gives the edge and an extra burst of energy to draw from. My victories are not achieved by my might, nor by my power, but by the Spirit of Christ who strengthens me."
After the fight the interviewer for the television network broadcasting the fight to 147 countries, wanted Holyfield to talk about the night "apart from religion." But "apart from religion," there's not much in the new champs life. A Christian since he was a young boy, Holyfield proceeded to praise Jesus for the victory, and to proclaim to millions that his God was the only true God. The latter may have been a reference to Mike Tyson's Muslim convictions.
"I was led by the Spirit. Everybody though I was washed up, but with God, I wasn't washed up," says Holyfield, again wearing his Jesus is Lord cap for the cameras.
Inscribed on Holyfield's boxing robe and shorts is "Philippians. 4:13," the scripture verse that states: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." He also adds the reference to his autographs. Holyfield knew that since God can do all things, winning the world heavyweight championship wasn't a leap of faith.
In the end the belt belonged to Holyfield but the glory belonged to God. He provided Evander Holyfield with the skill and determination to succeed at boxing. He also provided a platform for the gospel to reach the world.
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