Ali wasn`t ready for Rocky by that stage, his movement wasn`t that good yet, he was easier to hit when he first turned pro, he got better as he went along.
I'd argue that the Clay that beat Moore would beat prime Rocky easily This content is protected And, the question was "stands up with" Rocky. Clay was only a few fights away from his prime at that point, and he always had the heart of a champ so I can't see Rocky KO'ing him.
I understand that , but going from 10 to 15 rounds that young against a guy who doesn't wilt would be tough. The Ali of later years cuts Rocky to pieces.