George Foreman vs. Steve Zouski - First Comeback Fight

[AnthonyJ74]

I have never seen the Foreman/Zouski fight. But being that it was George Foreman's first fight in over ten years, how publicised was it? I was only about 13-years old at the time, and I was just starting to get into boxing in a big way, so I really don't recall too much hoopla surrounding that fight. Was there a big announcement by Foreman to announce his return to the ring, or was it just a low-key under the radar type of a return for the ex-champion?

Also, how did George Foreman look in that fight?

[mr. magoo]

The fight was broadcasted on ESPN, and commentated by Al Bernstein and Barry Thompkins ( if memory serves. ) Prior to the fight, Foreman had made a few television appearances and partook in several interviews. Most people thought he was nuts, but his demeanor was entertaining, and a number of people actually took interest in seeing what he would do after such an extended abscence. Zouski, was a cagey veteran who had lost most of his recent fights, but mainly to decent opposition. Foreman started off slow and took a few shots from Steve early, but began landing heavy punches, which resulted in Zouski ending up a bloody mess....

I could be wrong, as it as been over 20 years, but I seem to remember an article discussing his comeback prior to the Zouski fight in sports illustrated sometime in early 1987, in the same issue that had a pre-fight article on Spinks vs Cooney.

[AnthonyJ74]

Originally Posted by mr. magoo

The fight was broadcasted on ESPN, and commentated by Al Bernstein and Barry Thompkins ( if memory serves. ) Prior to the fight, Foreman had made a few television appearances and partook in several interviews. Most people thought he was nuts, but his demeanor was entertaining, and a number of people actually took interest in seeing what he would do after such an extended abscence. Zouski, was a cagey veteran who had lost most of his recent fights, but mainly to decent opposition. Foreman started off slow and took a few shots from Steve early, but began landing heavy punches, which resulted in Zouski ending up a bloody mess....

I could be wrong, as it as been over 20 years, but I seem to remember an article discussing his comeback prior to the Zouski fight in sports illustrated sometime in early 1987, in the same issue that had a pre-fight article on Spinks vs Cooney.

Cool! Thanks for the recap. I had always wondered about that fight and its surroundings. I do remember that after George had been on the comeback trail for about a year that he started calling out Tyson! I guess he figured that he better start the promoting and hoopla early to help his cause.

[fists of fury]

From what I remember at the time, Foreman's comeback raised more than a few eyebrows, but the saga was looked upon with amusement, even contempt. I remember one magazine saying "We don't know whether to take it seriously or treat it as a complete joke."

The fight itself was typical of early Foreman comback fights - George pitching and the other guy catching. Zouski was a durable sort and was probably the ideal guy to launch a comeback against. He had been in with some big names, but was really just a stepping stone. Still, his toughness would allow George to get some rounds in.

[anut]

IT WAS NEVER AIRED ON ESPN.........IT WAS TAPED ON CAMCORED ALONG WITH THE CRABTREE FIGHT......I HAVE BOTH....THE ZOUSKI FIGHT INCLUDES SUM TRAINING FOOTAGE/WEIGH IN....ALL ON CAMCORDER NO ESPN