The boxing world was left reeling with the loss of the legendary George Foreman, and among those struck by the news was John “Dino” Denis. An Italian-born heavyweight contender from the 1970s, Denis amassed an impressive career record of 45-5-2, including a memorable bout against Foreman in October 1976. At that time, Foreman was on a triumphant comeback tour just two years after his iconic battle with Muhammad Ali.
Denis, known for his toughness in the ring, stood up to some of Foreman’s mightiest punches before the fight concluded in the fifth round.
In this interview, Denis, who is still in good health, reflects on that significant fight and pays homage to Foreman.
Interviewer: It’s truly heartbreaking that George Foreman is no longer with us.
John Denis: “It certainly is. When I heard the news about George’s passing, it was deeply saddening. He was not just an extraordinary champion but also a remarkable individual. Facing him in 1976 was a defining moment in my career. George had an aura about him, both as a fighter and as a person. After our fight, I met him on several occasions and each time he proved to be as genuine as ever. He had the kind of power that was rare, with both hands. If it weren’t for his immense size leading him to tire in later rounds, I believe he might have retired undefeated.
“One memorable moment was when he was doing an autograph signing at the Providence Civic Centre. I had my young daughter with me, probably around five or six at the time, and there was this endless line of fans. I spoke to a staff member who kindly informed George that I was there. George graciously waved us forward, saving us hours of waiting. We shared a warm handshake, a hug, and a few laughs. That kind of humility from a boxing legend meant a lot."
Interviewer: You certainly gave him quite a challenge when you stepped in the ring with him.
J.D.: “Well, after my victory over Scott LeDoux, I broke into the top 10. Financially, things were tight, and I was keen on securing a solid payday to buy a house for my family. So, when my team mentioned a fight with Foreman for $110,000, it was an immediate ‘where do I sign!’ Even when some friends hinted I might not be ready, I took the leap. While I didn’t claim victory, I gave it everything I had. My goal was always to provide for my family, not just to build a record; boxing was my means to that end.
“Juggling boxing with a day job was no small feat. Still, facing George Foreman remains a pinnacle in my professional journey. I’ve also had the honor of sparring with the great Muhammad Ali twice in exhibitions. It’s these moments – against Foreman and Ali – that defined my career. Although I came into the Foreman fight with an undefeated record, George really showed me a different level of boxing. His power was overwhelming, and I learned quickly the importance of strategy, something Ali exploited when he faced George.”
Interviewer: Despite the barrage of punches, you remained on your feet. The referee seemed hesitant to stop the bout.
J.D.: “I prided myself on having a solid chin. I might not have excelled in the gym, but in the ring, I held my own. Despite facing challenges leading up to the fight, withdrawing never crossed my mind. The financial reward was crucial for my family’s future. Reflecting on my career and the choices I made, I’m grateful. There’s life beyond the boxing ring, and today, I enjoy the success of those risks I took. The pressure was intense, figuring out my game plan against someone like George.”
Interviewer: Post-fight, Foreman had high praise for you.
J.D.: “George, coming back from that loss against Ali, was on a mission. Ali had a unique ability to get into opponents’ heads. That rope-a-dope tactic drained George’s energy. Honestly, had he managed his stamina better, I believe he could have defeated any opponent, even someone like Mike Tyson, similar to how he overwhelmed Joe Frazier. In our fight, it was my corner who eventually threw in the towel. I felt honored to have shared the ring with him. Hearing of his passing hit me deeply. He wasn’t just a legendary boxer; he touched countless lives. And yes, like many, I owned one of his grills—it’s a cherished item. George will forever remain a friend and an unparalleled champion in my heart.”
Interviewer: You were part of an exciting boxing era, mingling with iconic names like Gerry Cooney and Joe Bugner.
J.D.: “Absolutely. Achieving a top-ten world ranking during that time was an accomplishment I’m immensely proud of. There was even a time when Sylvester Stallone considered investing in my career. He was keen on having an Italian heavyweight, and that’s how ‘Dino’ came about. Unfortunately, despite all the agreements, the deal fell through, which was disappointing. A figure like Stallone backing you would have been monumental. Maintaining motivation for training, especially when balancing a day job, was demanding. The support system modern athletes have today was non-existent back then. By the end, my performances reflected my waning passion. For instance, against Bugner, I was underprepared given just three weeks of training. Yet, my experiences, especially in England, were unforgettable.”
Interviewer: Lastly, do you remember George’s stunning comeback when he defeated Michael Moorer in 1994?
J.D.: “Indeed, I watched it and felt immense joy for him. That fight was a masterpiece, with George expertly setting up that crucial right hand. Even having faced a defeat from him, there was no bitterness on my part. The experience enriched my career. In boxing, while in the ring it’s fierce rivalry, outside, there should be camaraderie. That philosophy guided my life, and George embodied it. He left an indelible mark on the sport and in the hearts of many.”
