If you were a fan of boxing in the 1990s, you undoubtedly remember the larger-than-life character known as “Butterbean” With his bald head, massive 300-pound frame, and knockout power, Eric “Butterbean” Esch captured the imagination of fight fans during his heyday. Now decades removed from his prime fighting days, many wonder – how old is Butterbean today? Let’s take a look back at his age and career timeline.
Getting His Start – The Toughman Contests
Eric Esch was born on August 3 1966 in Atlanta Georgia. He had a rough childhood, losing his mother at age 8 and getting bullied over his weight. As an adult, Esch worked manual labor jobs including decking floors in mobile homes.
In the early 1990s Esch was cajoled by co-workers to enter a Toughman amateur boxing contest. To make the 400 pound weight limit, he went on a diet eating mainly chicken and butter beans, which led to his iconic nickname.
After a successful Toughman run, Butterbean turned pro in 1994 at age 28. So at the dawn of his pro boxing career, Butterbean was in his late 20s.
Rising Popularity – Four-Round Knockouts
The bald, super heavyweight boxer quickly made a name for himself by dispatching opponents in the first couple rounds. He rattled off 15 straight wins to kick off his pro career.
By 1995, in his late 20s to early 30s, Butterbean was gaining popularity through appearances on national television undercards. He was known for quick knockouts in his typical four-round fights.
During his prime era of the 1990s, Butterbean was most often competing in his late 20s and early-to-mid 30s. His crowds were drawn by his imposing size and punching power.
Taking on All Comers – Later Career
Even after his first loss in 1995, Butterbean continued his winning ways by knocking out fringe contenders and late-career big names. He beat former champ Larry Holmes in 2002 when Esch was 35.
In the 2000s, Butterbean transitioned more into novelty matches against pro wrestlers and MMA fighters. He competed in boxing and MMA well into his late 30s and 40s, motivated by his unrealized dream of fighting Mike Tyson.
Butterbean finally retired from boxing in 2013 after a 77-10-4 career at the age of 47. While past his prime, he still possessed his signature punching power until the very end.
Post-Boxing Life – Health Improving in His 50s
In retirement, Butterbean has made public appearances and operated a barbecue restaurant in his hometown of Jasper, Alabama. He’s been married for over two decades to his wife Libby and has three children.
Now in his late 50s, Butterbean experienced some health issues a few years ago due to his long-term obesity. At one point his weight had ballooned to over 400 pounds.
But in recent years, he has worked hard to turn his health around. By improving his diet and increasing his activity, the 57-year-old Butterbean has now lost around 200 pounds.
So while he struggles with the aging process like any athlete, the radical weight loss has helped extend his quality of life. Longtime fans are happy to see Butterbean getting active again and making positive changes.
Butterbean’s Legacy and Place in History
By looking at his age and career timeline, Butterbean was at his peak form in his late 20s into his mid 30s. He burst onto the boxing scene around 1994 and remained popular through the 1990s and early 2000s.
Some critics dismissed Butterbean as more spectacle than serious talent due to his rotund physique and reliance on early knockouts. But his undeniable punching power and insistence on fighting quality opposition have ensured his legacy.
While he never captured a world title, Butterbean delivered excitement by the sheer uniqueness of his look and style. To this day, casual sports fans recognize his name and remember his four-round demolition jobs.
Now approaching 60 and many years removed from his prime, Butterbean has still maintained a connection with fans. His recent health improvements are inspiring, and he remains beloved for the excitement and entertainment he provided at his peak.
So when people wonder, “How old is Butterbean now?” they recognize that while his exact age keeps increasing, the memories he gave boxing fans will never fade. His larger-than-life persona and the joy he brought followers will always survive the test of time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Butterbean’s Age
Butterbean’s unique career and generational appeal means many fans young and old often ponder questions about his age. Here are some of the most common inquiries:
How old was Butterbean when he started boxing?
Butterbean was around 28 years old when he launched his professional boxing career in 1994. He began with amateur Toughman contests in the early 1990s.
What was Butterbean’s age in his prime as a boxer?
During his prime era of popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s, Butterbean was generally between the ages of 28-38. His best years were likely his late 20s and early-to-mid 30s.
How old was Butterbean for his fight with Larry Holmes?
When Butterbean fought the aging former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes in 2002, he was 35 years old while Holmes was 52.
How old is Butterbean the boxer now?
As of 2023, Butterbean is 57 years old. He is now over a decade into his retirement from professional boxing.
How has Butterbean’s age affected his health and weight issues?
Now nearing 60, Butterbean has faced increased health problems related to obesity and aging. But he’s worked hard to lose over 200 pounds, extend his quality of life, and get more active.
Conclusion
Butterbean captured the imagination of boxing fans in the 1990s and created a legacy as a larger-than-life character. While his age now approaches 60, his legend remains strong. After some health scares, Butterbean is embracing a fitness lifestyle more suited for his age. For the longtime fans who still wonder, “How old is Butterbean?” the answer reveals an inspiring figure working hard to keep swinging for the fences.
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