Evander Holyfield Family Tree: The Story Behind The Real Deal

Evander Holyfield, born 19 October 1962 in Atmore, Alabama, USA, is an American former boxer — only 4-time World Heavyweight Champion in history (1990, 1993, 1996, 2000); Undisputed Cruiserweight & Heavyweight Champion (only boxer to hold both); 44-10-2 (29 KO); 1984 Olympic bronze.

The Family's Roots: An Alabama Working-Class Family

Family moved from Atmore, Alabama to Atlanta, Georgia when Evander was very young.

His Parents

Father: Ison Coley — Alabama; unmarried to mother.

Mother: Annie Laura Riggen Holyfield — American; single mother; ate cheap.

His Siblings

Evander is youngest of 9 children.

His Wives

Paulette Bowen (m. 1985, div. 1991); Dr. Janice Itson (m. 1996, div. 2000); Candi Calvana Smith (m. 2003, div. 2012).

His 11 Children

Various children across marriages and outside marriage, including sons Evander Holyfield Jr., Ewin Holyfield, Elijah Holyfield (NFL running back), and daughters.

The Holyfield Family Tree at a Glance

Father: Ison Coley.

Mother: Annie Laura Riggen Holyfield — single mother of 9.

Siblings: 8 elder (Evander was youngest of 9).

Wives: Paulette Bowen (1985-91); Janice Itson (1996-2000); Candi Calvana Smith (2003-12).

11 children including Elijah Holyfield — NFL running back (Panthers, Eagles, etc.).

Evander Holyfield:

  • Born 19 October 1962, Atmore, AL
  • Family to Atlanta when very young
  • Trained at Warren Memorial Boys Club, Atlanta
  • 1984 Olympic bronze: LA (light heavyweight — controversial DQ)
  • Turned pro November 1984
  • Undisputed Cruiserweight Champion: 1988
  • Undisputed Heavyweight Champion: 25 October 1990 (KO Buster Douglas)
  • 4× Heavyweight Champion: 1990, 93, 96, 2000 — record
  • Bite Fight: 28 June 1997, Mike Tyson bit off part of Holyfield's ear (DQ Tyson)
  • Career: 44-10-2 (29 KO)
  • Retired 2011
  • Bankruptcy 2012: reportedly lost $250M+ career earnings

What the Holyfield Family Story Teaches Us

An unmarried father and single mother of 9. Youngest of 9 children. Three marriages. 11 children, including an NFL-player son. A career that produced 4 heavyweight titles — the only fighter to do so.

For every family — large or small, famous or otherwise — the Real Deal story carries the same lesson. Some careers hold a heavyweight title 4 times and lose the $250M anyway.

👉 Start building your family legacy today with Family Root App

📜 Disclaimer The family tree and biographical information provided in this article are based on publicly available sources and records. While we strive for accuracy, we do not guarantee the completeness or authenticity of all data. This content is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not aim to infringe on any individual's privacy or personal rights. If you believe any information is incorrect or wish to request edits or removal, please contact us at Info@familyrootapp.com.