Muhammad Ali (Spinks II fight) vs Larry Holmes (Norton fight)

Discussion in 'Classic Boxing Forum' started by MaccaveliMacc, Mar 27, 2026.

  1. Yorbals

    Yorbals Boxing Addict Full Member

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    Agree with this. Zaire Ali had enough left to beat pretty much everyone, his will still outweighed his declining physical gifts, too much after that it’s Larry
     
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  2. White Bomber

    White Bomber Boxing Addict Full Member

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    This content is protected
     
  3. White Bomber

    White Bomber Boxing Addict Full Member

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    Holmes clearly outpoints 1974 Ali too.
     
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  4. White Bomber

    White Bomber Boxing Addict Full Member

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    No version of 70's Ali can beat 1980 Holmes.
     
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  5. mr. magoo

    mr. magoo VIP Member Full Member

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    Holmes wins convincingly. I don’t think Ali could have beaten a prime Holmes post 1974 and even in the early 70s it would have been a close fight
     
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  6. Steve Fero

    Steve Fero Active Member Full Member

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    The 1974 Ali finds a way to steal a decision from the vs Norton version of Holmes in a very close fight. The more experienced stronger champion Holmes outboxes him wins a clear UD.
     
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  7. Omega74

    Omega74 Member Full Member

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    Ali from the Frazier 2, Norton 2 or Foreman fight would win a clear UD.
     
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  8. Dynamicpuncher

    Dynamicpuncher Obsessed with Boxing Full Member

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    Holmes would win a wide UD over that version of Ali.

    The earliest version of Ali I would pick over Holmes would be the version of Ali who fought Norton the 2nd time.

    I've said it numerous times but for me that was Ali at his sharpest in the 70s IMO considering the opponent.

    Ali danced for all 12 rounds vs Norton and looked sharp. Very reminiscent of his 1960s self when he was dancing effortlessly around the ring.
     
    Last edited: Mar 29, 2026
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  9. Steve Fero

    Steve Fero Active Member Full Member

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    I agree maybe sharpest since 60s but he looked a little weak. My best Ali was either Terrell fight or the Ellis fight right after first Frazier fight. Those were Ali with lightning quickness and snap in his punches.
     
  10. White Bomber

    White Bomber Boxing Addict Full Member

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    Only in your dreams.
    Holmes has a good chance of beating even 60s Ali, nevermind 70s Ali.
     
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