1997 Lennox Lewis vs 1974 Muhammad Ali

Complicated for both. Lewis is one the worst match-ups for Ali.

To give it a go, I think sooner or later Ali gets into trouble and Lewis at his best was a great finisher. Late Lewis KO is surely on the cards. Either can snatch a decision if Lewis fights an overly cautious fight, something similar to Hollyfield 2.

 

Ali that beat Foreman and Frazier, and Ali that beat Zora Folley would beat Lewis by UD in 12 rounds while in 15 rounds he would stop Lewis in 13 or 14th round.

 

It is hard to believe but Ali was in the early stages of Parkinson's Syndrome when he fought George Foreman. Just totally amazing. According to neurologists who treated him he likely developed Parkinson's Syndrome during the mid stage of his boxing career. I'll provide a citation if anyone wants one

 

At least 6 or 7 beat him quite handily.

 

Ali. The main advantage Lewis has is reach. The power difference is irrelevant up against the durable Ali. Ali was good enough then to overcome the reach difference.

If you want to use '97 Lewis for some 70's upsets, put him in against Frazier or Norton.

 

I do think that Lewis' stopping point on the heavyweight ladder is likely Foreman or Liston, I wouldn't bet on him beating good versions of men like Ali or Holmes.