Tomato Can?

Question

During all the hype about Kimbo Slice, I've heard the term, "tomato can," used to describe him. What's the meaning and origin of this term?

Answer 1

It is a really old boxing term.  Basically, it is a washed up fighter put into the ring with an up-and-comming fighter just so that the young guy can get experience and a win.  They are called "tomato cans" because they just get bloody (tomato) and stand there like a punching bag (can).

Answer 2

Bum, bad fighter, opponent, someone expected to lose