1973 Foreman vs 1959-62 Liston

He had been counted out. How eager to continue one thinks he was is just speculation. The fact is that he wasn't allowed to. No one hindered Liston from getting off his stool.

I just don't see how Liston has the psychological advantage. I don't think Foreman was intimidated by anyone after smashing the most intimidating opponent possible at the time like he was nothing. I'm pretty sure Foreman would feel very confident against anyone who wanted to face him head on. If that confidence would be justified or not is another thing, though.

 

I'll take Liston, he'd survive early and ko Foreman

 

I would pick Sonny Liston to win probably by mid round stoppage. Two punchers, powerful guys. Neither is gonna be intimidated. I believe that Sonny Liston used his jab more consistently than Big George Foreman. I think he was a little sharper with his punches and set up his power very well behind that jab. In reality though any shot from either of these heavyweights could change the fight. Sonny is just a little better boxer.

 

I think maybe Liston outlasts young George maybe...both not that tough mentally ...but I actually think the older foreman beats any version of Liston. IMO.he. was smarter...busier...tougher than what he was... foreman by decision

 

If anyone in the history of boxing could intimidate Foreman its probably Liston. A real thug. Unlike Ali Foreman would be in front of Liston, a very dangerous place to be. Prime Listons Jab would be the difference, Foreman threw a lot of wind mill punches . Against a fighter as powerful as Liston that would be very costly. Id say Liston in 10rds.

 

The difference would be Listons more compact punches and tighter technique. Liston by stoppage around 5-7.

 

Some have said Liston "juiced" his gloves when the going got tough against Williams in one of the fights. (Machen & Folley supposedly also complained about burning eyes post-fight...plus the Cassius Clay round 5)

 

This is one I'd love to see,what a fight!
Certainly early on Foreman would be a real threat, especially with that leading long right uppercut. However he may not be able to get that off first because Sonny with that freakish 84" reach could be sticking that huge jab in his face.
This would probably be the key knocking George out of that aggressive go forward rhythm.
The other key thing here which has been mentioned is the mentality of both fighters. Would George actually be intimidated by Liston? If not Liston would not have previously had a monster like Foreman in front of him coming at him to tear his head off.
Sonny though came through two tear ups with a big punching Cleveland Williams and seemed to relish it, I think it was the craziness and mind games of Ali which he couldn't deal with.
I'll take Liston with the better all round game, after ferocious early exchanges stopping a tiring George in around 7 or 8 rounds.
I'm not saying this with a great deal of conviction though.

 

Liston