When did a Holyfield start to get more public respect?

He got respect as soon as he became Heavyweight champion of the world. He got video games made after him, was doing burger king commercials, etc. Being Heavyweight champ of the world meant something at that time. Even Buster Douglas was highly respected. He also had a video game, was helping out Hulk Hogan, etc. When Holyfield KOed Douglas, he became the man in a time when people could actually name who "The Champ" was.