Flint Northwestern High School
2016 Greater Flint Afro-American Hall of Fame Inductee
Category: Boxing
Parents: Joe Byrd Sr. (father)
Wife: Tracy
Daughters: Jordan and Sidney
Son: Justin
Chris grew up in the Hamady school district, but ended up going to Northwestern High School where he graduated in 1989. Chris came from a boxing family. His father Joe was the U.S. Head Boxing coach for the 1992 Olympic games. Chris’ mother Rose received her coaching license and was able to work in Chris’ corner with her husband Joe. Chris’ amateur record was 267-24.
Chris turned professional on January 28, 1993 knocking out 10 of his first 13 opponents, As a super middle weight in 1994, Chris fought Gerald O’Neil after moving up the scale at cruiser weight winning his fight on a TKO in the second round. Chris’ boxing skills carried him all the way to the top and his biggest test was when he fought Arthur Williams, a giant heavy weight at 6’6, 260lb and heavy weight Tim Puller. Chris made his mark known in the heavy weight division surprising Puller with a 5-round TKO on national TV. Chris went on to win the IBF/USBA cross regional heavy weight title. In 2002 Chris won the IBF title against Evander Holyfield with a unanimous decision. Chris you have made Flint proud, this is truly your night.
