Could Holmes pull off a rope a dope in Zaire 1974?

Discussion in 'Classic Boxing Forum' started by Rakesh, Nov 11, 2021.


  1. Man_Machine

    Man_Machine Boxing Junkie Full Member

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    No.

    It would not just have been about whether Holmes could take that level of punishment (which is doubtful). Holmes would also have needed to maintain his form under that assault, which is highly doubtful.

    And, this is where Ali's greatness is really demonstrated and sets him apart (along with Louis) from the rest.
     
    Flash24 likes this.
  2. Flash24

    Flash24 Boxing Addict Full Member

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    No he couldn't . Here's why. 1st and most importantly is, he didn't have the gift
    of gab or personality of Ali. Holmes couldn't create the blind rage Ali was able to
    do to opponents.
    That rage worked to perfection for Ali in Kinshasha. It made Foreman fight
    possibly the dumbest fight in the history of heavyweight championship fights.
    Holmes wouldn't be able to get under Foreman's skin the way Ali did.
    I would expect and much more calculated, and measured performance
    from Foreman against Holmes, he would set up his attack much better,
    If Holmes tried the rope a dope , It would end up a disaster for him.
    It would nullify his best weapon, his jab.
    Ali was very capable of getting his combination punches off in close
    quarters. Holmes was more of a long range type, needing more
    room to get his offense off. Though as was noted earlier he did use
    the rope a dope successfully against Mercer. But Mercer didn't have
    the fire power of prime Foreman.
     
    Entaowed likes this.
  3. Titan1

    Titan1 Boxing Junkie Full Member

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    No way, Holmes didn't have the experience yet.