For the last two centuries the most prestigious sports title in the world has been the heavyweight champion of the world. Think about it.

As Muhammad Ali used to say, the heavyweight champion carries the moniker as "the baddest man on the planet." Starting this Saturday, and culminating at the end of June, the very best heavyweights in the world will be colliding. It begins with four-time former heavyweight champion Evander "Real Deal" Holyfield stepping in with the brash former champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman. The fight will be shown on HBO.

Next week heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis defends his IBF and WBC titles against former world champion "Iron" Mike Tyson. Then, at the end of the month, WBO title-holder Vladimir Klitschko defends his belt against former title-holder Ray Mercer.

By July, the half dozen best heavyweights should be whittled down to three. Rahman, who exploded onto the boxing scene last year with a single overhand right delivered to Lewis's jaw, will be attempting to re-establish himself with a win over the ageless Holyfield.

"I think I'm capable of being the heavyweight champion of the world again," said Rahman, 29, (35-3, 29 KOs). "I was very disappointed in my last performance."

Rahman was shelled by a long right-hand counter that Lewis delivered over his out-reached arms. Rock was counted out.

Holyfield returns to the ring after three of the ugliest fights ever seen between two heavyweights. WBA title-holder John Ruiz managed to squeak out a win, a draw and a loss against the 39-year-old Holyfield. Both engaged in hugging, holding and boring boxing fans the world over.

"I wouldn't be in the game if I didn't think I could beat everybody," said Holyfield (37-5-2, 25 KOs). "There ain't a fighter that fights that I don't believe I can beat."

Though both fighters are verbally confident of victory, they are also very respectful of each other's talent.

"I really thought he (Holyfield) beat John Ruiz in their last fight. If Evander Holyfield can't make it to the Hall of Fame, then the Hall of Fame should be ashamed of itself," said Rahman of his next opponent. "I don't think this fight will enhance or take away from his legacy. I have nothing but respect for Evander. He's probably the greatest fighter in this era."

Holyfield, who forgave Tyson for biting his two ears, likes what he sees in Rahman.

"What you have is a guy that really gives his all," Holyfield said of Rahman. "He's got good basic skills that he uses to good effect."

Rahman blames his last loss on the lack of a trainer. This time he has Bowie Fisher, former trainer of undisputed middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins. Rahman feels confident that his war machine is in place.

"I really feel that everything has come together," Rahman said of his relationship with Fisher, who has him training harder than he's accustomed. "I really feel I'm going to end my career with Bowie Fisher."

Holyfield applauds Rahman's choice of a trainer but adds a warning.

"I'm not fighting the trainer, I'm fighting the fighter," Holyfield said. Rahman bubbly talks about his chance this weekend to show his skills.

"I really feel like I'm in excellent position," Rahman said. "My destiny is in my hands."

Inldand Empire Fight Scene

SPEEDY WINS

Roger "Speedy" Gonzalez (20-0, 15 KOs) continued his unbeaten streak with a split-decision victory over Jorge Otero (16-5-1) in Boynton Beach, Fla. Gonzalez, a Chino resident, rarely fights in Southern California but continues to win on the road.

GOLDEN GLOVES

Two Mira Loma amateur boxers will be participating in Golden Gloves tournaments: David Cadengo fights in San Diego Thursday for the regional Golden Gloves; On Saturday, Jose Reynoso fights in the state finals of the Golden Gloves at Lincoln Park in East Los Angeles. Winners of the state finals go on to the National Tournament.

FIGHTS ON TELEVISION

Fri. ESPN2, 6 p.m., Leonard Dorin (20-0) vs. Raul Balbi (49-5-1) WBA lightweight title; James Toney (62-4-2) vs. Michael Rush (22-5-1).

Sat. HBO, 7 p.m., Evander Holyfield (37-5-2) vs. Hasim Rahman (35-3).

Sat. Telefutura, 8 p.m., Wilfredo Rivera (33-5-1) vs. Michael Lerma (24-7-1).

Sat. Showtime, 11 p.m., Ricky Hatton (28-0) vs. Eamon Magee (23-2).