A Question Regarding FOTC?

Jeff was retired for about 5 years when he came into the ring vs Johnson. Let's say Jeff Walk in on July 4 1910 and flatten Johnson in the first round. I really think the history books would say Jeffries won the title for the white race and would be the first man to regain the title. Johnson was already viewed as the MAN before Jeffries walk into the ring. Just by this point in time, Jeffries was viewed as a GOD of the ring, he must of been the only guy that could dethrone the black champion. Yes race played a part of it. It would be like today if Lewis(Lets forget age for a moment) came back and beat Usky, do all the Wlad, Fury's and Usky reins as champ no longer count?? Does that make Hart, Burns and Johnson fake champs if Jeff some how regains the belt?

 

I agree with most of what you say but what if a champion makes it clear he hasn’t retired and will defend if given the opportunity. And let’s say this all happens in, say at most a 2 year period. It gets real ugly. Imagine if Michael Spinks didn’t fight a Tyson but beat Douglas.

 

But Ali didn't do it. He clearly said he's retiring and will accept the winner of Frazier and Ellis as his rightful successor. Wanted to hand him his belt as well, but the promoters didn't let him.

 

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