I recently came across Mendoza's top 10 heavyweights of all time list. He had Vitali as number 9 on his All time List.
I think it would go to a decision due to styles, but there's zero way that Wlad can continuously out-box Ali. And his stamina will suffer while Ali's under-appreciated stamina/work-rate come blazing at him. I think in a 15 round contest he could get stopped due to exhaustion or possibly a ref stoppage. Otherwise, he'll win a 9-10/6-5 type decision. Vitali would be embarrassed by Ali's reflexes and speed, though. He's just not getting by with size against the fastest, fleetest, best reflexed HW champ ever.
Prime Ali would hit him everywhere except the soles of his feet. I voted Ali on pts but now im not sure that Ali might stop him. Ali either way
Can't believe so many reckon Vitali would last the distance. Ali TKO somewhere between rounds 7-10 for me after toying with Vitali.
Vitali has taken bombs from three big punchers. Lewis, Sanders, and Hide. He has never been floored. Simply stated he takes a great punch, If you add the fact that no man has come close to out boxing him, and he can hit move and stay active all night, he's a tall order to beat literally. Ali has also taken bombs, but he was floored by the likes of Banks, and nearly Ko'd by a cruiser weight in Henry Cooper. For a guy with great defense, Ali sure got tagged plenty. The best version of Ali is debatable. Sure the 60's version was faster. No doubt. But the early 70's version was smarter, a better counter puncher, hit a little harder ( I think ) and much better clinching / covering up. The clinching and covering up part played a big role in Ali's victory over Frazier and Foreman.
Vitali would by far be the toughest opponent Ali has ever faced. I'd give it a 50/50 to go either way. Ali would have to force an injury on Vitali to win by stoppage.
Ali and Larry are mere unsosphisticated old-time dinosaurs in comparison to the mighty Quitali. :yep :dead