It's all about opinions but as Ali went into the FOTC after a 3 and a half year exile, had decreased stamina whereas he could previously dance for 15 rounds, decreased mobility, decreased punching accuracy, gave rounds away by clowning yet still won 6 rounds on two of the judges' scorecards then I don't see how Frazier could have beaten a prime Ali that night. In my opinion, the Ali who fought Cleveland Williams would either beat the FOTC Frazier on points by a comfortable margin or by a late stoppage.
The arrogance in this message is staggering. Basically anyone who disagrees with you on this point is not only wrong but also ignorant of boxing history - an ironic comment as it is simply dripping with ignorance and conceit. I don't mind people who have a different opinion from me but I do mind those who think that anyone with a different view from theirs, in your case an overwhelming majority, needs to 'look again'. And to imply that Don Dunphy of all people is ignorant of boxing history is like saying Warren Buffett has no idea how to make money.
To me the FOTC Frazier could have beat any heavyweight, but that's just my opinion. I've never seen a fighter with that much perseverance and focus...he really had a beef with Ali and it made him twice the fighter he ever was imo. Joe's a bit low on my ATG top 10 list but (yes I know Ali was both rusty and a touch behind his prime) FOTC is the most impressive performance I've seen from a heavyweight. But that's just me.
Fair enough. I mean, obviously, we disagree but anyone who expresses views clearly and respectfully, supports them with reasons and then 'likes' comments from people who do the same when disagreeing with him is alright with me.
You just don’t know what you are writing about. Another fact overlooked is that this fight was one of the worst called bouts in boxing history. Ali’s flurry’s were always highlighted. Joe lands a perfect short brutal left hook, his best textbook hook of the night. Causes Ali to cower, drop his hands and look as if he was ready to go, and Dunphy says not a word. However it was a hook as it should be thrown so short and imperceptible. It had a huge effect however. “In the 11th, Ali got trapped in Frazier's corner, and blow after blow bit at his melting face, and flecks of spittle flew from his mouth. "Lawd have mercy!" Bundini shrieked.”
I don't? Maybe! Joe did rock the hell out of Ali with that hook and won the round on my card. It's true, the announcers were very much for Ali...but then, isn't how that always is for ex-champs against champs? They were practically rapturous when Holmes came out of round 4 against Tyson looking a bit like he did in his prime...only to be heartbroken real soon after. Even when Larry fought Holy, at such an advanced boxing age, there were announcers praising his every move (until the second half of the fight, where Larry really showed his age).
