Lennox Lewis v. Don King Productions, Inc., 94 F. Supp.2d 430 (S.D.N.Y. 2000)

Professional boxer sought declaratory judgment that he was not bound by agreement with promoter requiring boxer either to engage in match with leading available contender from particular sanctioning organization, or vacate title conferred by that organization. Promoter counterclaimed for specific performance and damages. Following a bench trial, the District Court, Kaplan, J., held that: (1) promoter’s alleged misrepresentation as to then-leading contender’s health was not fraudulent inducement; (2) boxer’s obligation continued regardless of promoter’s alleged misrepresentation as to then-leading contender’s health; and (3) alternate duty to vacate title if bout with leading contender was avoided was enforceable even though sanctioning organization failed to officially designate leading contender. Complaint and counterclaim dismissed; injunction issued.