I take Ken to overhaul a considerable points deficit and stop Floyd in the later rounds. Patterson's speed causes Norton problems early on but I don't think that he has the power to win this one by knockout and would n't be able to avoid Ken's power shots when he slows up later. Norton's strength is a major factor.
Patterson via brutal KO. I don't think Patterson was quite as fragile as many make him out to be. Same rings true for Norton, but tbh I don't see him faring any better against Liston than Patterson did. I think Patterson's speed gives Norton fits but the key is Norton's cross armed defense made him rather susceptible to left hooks, and coupled with Patterson's hand speed, that gazelle punch will find a home on Norton's chin numerous times, taking it's toll and Norton can only take so many before he succumbs.
How I see this going down is Patterson gets an early lead with Ken taking over late, I'd see Patterson taking a controversial majority decision with many making an argument for Kenny.
Fantasy Don King billed this fight "The fight so nice they named it twice" or something like that. It was held in Acheron. For fantasy tax purposes. And phantasy tax purposes.
I think it can go either way. - Norton has the physical ability to just roll over Patterson. And I think Floyd doesn't have the best escape plan under constant fire. Still, Patterson has the ability to counter him. -Patterson can outbox him like Young. I know different style: not so slick but fast hands and smart. -Norton has a good defense. Especially against left hooks from smaller opponents the cross guard is very effective. So he will be able to neutralize Floyd's left hooks well. -However, Patterson will find gaps for other types of punches. The cross guard is kinda clumsy and Norton will have his problems to adjust to Floyd's surprises. Floyd has the ability to use body shots and feints to displace Norton's guard, and find a gap to land flush. Most people remind Floyd for his gazelle punch and lightning fast combinations. But remember the laser right hand that knocked out Cooper. I think 60/40 Norton if he starts very aggressive. 60/40 Patterson if Norton acts medium aggressive.
I don't think Patterson has the physical imposition to bomb Norton out as others did. Even with Patterson's distinct power, Norton is more durable than given credit for. I think Norton would be the boss, neutralize Patterson's effectively at range and use many long jabs and coutner right hands. If they sit in the pocket as they both were known to do for 2-3 seconds too long, I think Patterson would probably fall first if it came to a firefight even though he's the better puncher. I think Norton's guard style and head movement would be effective at getting around Patterson's hooks. Norton stops him late in a really good fight.
I’m undecided. Floyd Patterson was basically a better fighter but not sure how this match would unfold stylistically.
Ken Norton (Ali 1 fight) would have every chance to win. However, I cannot provide a final forecast; 50/50.
SUCH a good match! Stylistically it is debateable, no clear advantage, each has tactics to limit the other. Floyd is a better boxer overall & faster. Norton is somewhat bigger & stronger. I slightly favor Norton. But it would be an excellent fight!
Patterson by ko, he was quicker, better multi-shot puncher, had better footwork IMO a better defense and enough power to really hammer Norton.
