Holmes to fight Butterbean

<br>(Easton-AP) -- Former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes will fight Eric ``Butterbean'' Esch in a ten-round bout. <br><br>It's happening in early June at the Norfolk Scope arena in Norfolk,

Tuesday, March 12th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Easton-AP) -- Former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes will fight Eric ``Butterbean'' Esch in a ten-round bout.

It's happening in early June at the Norfolk Scope arena in Norfolk, Virginia.

The 52-year-old Holmes was in Norfolk over the weekend to sign a contract with promoter Daryl Decroix.

The ``Easton Assassin'' says it will be the final fight of his 29-year career.

Holmes is 68-and-six with 44 knockouts. He has fought only twice since 1998.

Butterbean has compiled a 46-one-and-two record with 35 knockouts against unheralded opponents. He is also known for his success in Toughman competitions, where he has won 45 of 47 bouts.