This is a fight which might actually have happened. In 1969 Foreman turned down a big offer to make his professional debut against Williams in Houston. So, at a stretch, you could say that George Foreman ducked Cleveland Williams, and no one could exactly prove you wrong.
Foreman by early knockout. I don't see any reason to give Williams chances for even relative success.
Interesting! I never knew this. That would've been a smart move on his part, beating a big name virtually risk-free when you take into account not only Williams' being shot (both figuratively and literally) but aging as well.
I do think that George psychologically lost his edge after fighting and losing to Muhammad Ali on Oct 30 1974. Ali lived in his head rent free ever since the fight was signed. Sometimes bullies cannot take that kind of verbal abuse, even though they are intimidating and knocking out opponents left and right. Ali did get into Sonny Liston's head starting on Nov 5 1963 when their first title bout was signed for Feb 25 1964.
I think your partially right. I think the Rumble in the Jungle caused Foreman 2 lose some of his aggressive edge, yet in the Lyle fight, Foreman must of have been encouraged 2 know he could win a fight that was even tougher than the Rumble in the Jungle.
I actually think that Williams has the style to give Foreman some problems. I have to favor Foreman of course, but it might be a more interesting fight then people think.
Janitor the contrarian But don't leave us hanging. Expand on your thoughts. I think Williams is pretty good, so, what elements of his style do you think Foreman would struggle with?
I think that Williams would definitely try to use his reach and power to counterpunch Foreman. I am not calling an upset here, but I am predicting an interesting fight!
I think the only time this could have happened was in 1970 or 1971. Maybe 1969 or 1972. While Williams apparently put in a respectable effort against Mac Foster in their first fight in 1969, Foreman proved to be far more formidable than Mac Foster. Foreman takes out Williams fairly early.