As per the 'Marquess of Queensberry Rules', when a boxer hits the canvas, the referee will count to 10 (a notional ten seconds), and the boxer must rise to their feet unaided. However, sometimes a boxer has, for some reason, been allowed more than ten seconds to rise after he has been knocked down. Here are the longest 10 counts in boxing history.
Back in 1927, Dempsey dropped Tunney in the seventh round, but he didn't immediately go to the neutral corner. As a result, the 10 counts were delayed by the referee, and Tunney was given over 14 seconds to get back up on his feet. Dempsey lost the fight via unanimous decision.
Back in 1965, Ali dropped Liston in the first round and stood right next to downed Liston. As a result, Liston was almost down for over 12 seconds. This moment was captured by a ringside photographer in what would become one of the most iconic images in sport. Regardless, Ali won the fight via KO in the first round.
Back in 1990, Tyson dropped Douglas in the eighth round. However, Douglas got back up in what would appear as a long count, which lasted over 12 seconds. It cost 'Iron Mike' his first professional loss as he got knocked out later in the tenth round.
On December 1, 2018, Wilder dropped Fury out cold in the twelfth round. However, Fury got back up in what would appear a long count by the referee Jack Reiss. The fight resulted in a draw.