Hasim Rahman Returned to the Ring in Indiana
The 53-year-old former heavyweight champion faced Phillip Triantafillo in a six-round bout.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Boxing
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Former heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman returned to professional boxing after a 12-year hiatus. He competed against 40-year-old Phillip Triantafillo in a six-round match held in Indiana.
Why it matters
The bout represents a notable comeback attempt for Rahman, who gained international fame after knocking out Lennox Lewis in 2001. Rahman has expressed interest in becoming the oldest heavyweight champion in boxing history.
Rahman enters the ring at age 53 with a career record of 50 wins, 9 losses, and 2 draws including 41 knockouts. His opponent, 40-year-old Phillip Triantafillo, holds a record of 4 wins and 4 losses.
The players
Hasim Rahman
He is a 53-year-old former heavyweight champion who famously knocked out Lennox Lewis in 2001.
Phillip Triantafillo
He is a 40-year-old professional boxer with a career record consisting of 4 wins and 4 losses.
Lennox Lewis
He is a former undisputed heavyweight champion who lost his title to Hasim Rahman in 2001.
Combat Sports Now
This is the streaming service that provided worldwide coverage for the event.
The details
The fight was scheduled for six rounds and broadcast to a worldwide audience via the Combat Sports Now streaming platform. Rahman has been inactive in professional competition for more than a decade prior to this engagement.
Timeline
April 22, 2001: Hasim Rahman knocked out Lennox Lewis in South Africa.
December 2025: Phillip Triantafillo won his most recent professional boxing bout.
September 24, 2026: Hasim Rahman fought Phillip Triantafillo in Indiana.
Season Trajectory
This return serves as a critical test for Rahman, whose ambition to become the oldest heavyweight champion relies on building momentum from this performance. The match shifts the narrative for veteran fighters seeking to re-enter a division currently dominated by younger athletes.
Viewers can follow Rahman's quest to become the oldest heavyweight champion through his future scheduled appearances. The outcome of this six-round bout determines whether he maintains the professional eligibility required for higher-profile title opportunities.
The takeaway
Rahman's return highlights the ongoing trend of veteran fighters utilizing streaming platforms to stage high-profile comebacks. Enthusiasts should note that aging athletes in combat sports often face significant physical challenges when returning after extended layoffs.
Further reading
For more news on the sport, visit the Boxing section.
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