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?
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.
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.
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:smoke:smoke:smoke:smoke