Holyfield's heart improves after visit with faith healer

Former world heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield, who retired from the ring April 26 because of a heart problem, recently left an Atlanta hospital after undergoing tests on his heart and said his doctor has given him hope he could return to the ring.

Holyfield was discharged from Crawford Long Hospital after being briefed by cardiologist Douglas Morris on the results of tests. He said the tests found some improvement in his heart condition.

Holyfield, 31, has a non-compliant left ventricle, or "stiff heart," which prevents sufficient oxygen from being pumped to muscles and tissues, The problem was discovered after his April 22 title-fight loss to Michael Moorer.

Holyfield claims he was cured by faith healer Benny Hinn during a Christian revival in Philadelphia. "My heart is better," he said.

During the revival Holyfield dropped to the stage three times and said he had "a warm feeling" go through his chest as Hinn touched him during the healing session. During a later Hinn revival service that day, Holyfield agreed to give Hinn $265,000 to underwrite the costs of the crusade.

Holyfield said he was considering a return to the ring, but he would seek the heavyweight title for a record-tying third time only after a further "sign from the Lord." Holyfield said his retirement soon might end. "If God will, I will," he added.

Boxing officials said no state athletic commission would give him license to fight again without a medical clearance.

Randy Gordon, chairman of the New York State Athletic Commission told the New York Daily News that Holyfield would have to pass a series of physicals "anywhere he applied" for a license.

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