Lennox Lewis out American contender Lionel Butler. However, at the behest of promoter Don King, the WBC bypassed him and gave Mike Tyson the first chance at the title recently won by Briton Frank Bruno from Oliver McCall. Bruno had previously lost to both Lewis and Tyson. Lewis had the number 1 contender's slot in the WBC rankings when he knocked out Australian Justin Fortune, then defeated former WBO Champion Tommy Morrison in October 1995, followed by Olympic gold medalist and former WBO champion Ray Mercer in a close majority decision in May 1996. Lewis successfully sued to force Tyson to make
1995 World Matchplay (darts) Wilson made what turned out to be his last ever appearance in a televised tournament at this event. The two-time former World Champion beat Rod Harrington in the first round, but then lost to Nigel Justice in the second round. Phil Taylor and Dennis Priestley continued their rivalry when they met in another major final. This time it was Taylor who came out on top by 16 legs to 11 to claim his first World Matchplay title. The prize fund was £41,450. 3rd place match Best of 21 legs Players must win by two clear legs. Match winners under tie-break