That would count as a unify bout, not a "Winning" title fight. Other wise, Tyson would be a 5 champion about. Lewis would be a 3 or so time champion ete.
Yeah, three. Holyfield won a strap four times, which is the HW record. But Ali was the linear champion three times. I think that's the record for that.
Ali won the HW World Title in 1964. Was stripped of the WBA's recognition for fighting an immediate rematch with Liston instead of the next person in line for a shot. The vacant WBA title was won by Terrell (who beat Machen). Ali regained the belt in 1965. That's all one reign (1964-1967). 1974-1978 is his 2nd reign 1978-1979 is his 3rd reign. Norton was proclaimed WBC champ and had lost the belt to Holmes between the first and second Ali vs. L. Spinks fights.
Ali himself never claimed this. Before Spinks II, he was talking about becoming the first man to regain the title twice, and appeared perfectly satisfied with setting that precedent.
Indeed he did. I wonder how many people recall that his initial comeback target was not Holmes, but Weaver. ("I will deeemolish, the Beaver!" All Mike said for his part was, "I will hurt him, while playing the theme to "Chariots of Fire" on the piano.) Like everybody else, Ali saw Weaver as a vulnerable and lucky caretaker claimant after he upset Tate in a match where he'd been completely dominated for 13 of 15 rounds. Mike completely changed everybody's view of him after his display of guts in outlasting and knocking out Coeztee, reinforced when many expected the undefeated Tillis to stick and move his way to Weaver's title.
Ali won THE title three times Ali won A title at least nine times (WBA 4 times, WBC 3 times and NABF twice). And as the NYSAC were still around offering their title, it could be argued Ali won that beating Liston; also Ali would of won recognition by Europe and The Ring (3 times)... so the list even then is pretty much endless!
