DATE: August 24, 2000

Dear Fans,

After a vacation and a couple of weeks of relaxation, I am rested mentally, physically, and spiritually. Although the media tainted my victory over John Ruiz, it was the warmth and heartfelt congratulations from true Warrior fans that was most important to me. In order to retain my WBA Heavyweight Championship belt, I must fight a mandatory challenger in in the first few months of 2001. My opponent nor a date have been chosen, but as the next step in achieving my goal in becoming the Undisputed Heavyweight Champion of the World, I readily accept the challenge.

There are many people with in the boxing community that have voiced their opinion that I should retire. They say that my age is beginning to show in the ring. They say I have lost the heart that a gladiator sport such as boxing requires for one to be successful. Those are people who don¡¯t know what it really means to be a warrior. Being a warrior doesn¡¯t always mean that you will win. It doesn¡¯t mean that if you win, you will win with a knockout or with great ease. The true definition of a warrior is someone who never gives up despite how difficult the obstacles.

I am presently in training for this very important championship bout scheduled for December. Despite my age and the status I have attained in the boxing community, my warrior spirit still lives. I will continue to condition my mind and body in an effort to obtain my goal of being the Undisputed Heavyweight Champion of the World. I am and always will be a Warrior.

Thanks again,

Evander Holyfield