I'm not sure I've ever seen a more lethal punch than Cooney's left hook. Imagine how hard a punch would have to be to break Ron Lyle's ribs.
Because of that early success with Ali Spinks development stopped so he never improved. But this would be a tough one for him in any case Cooney was a good offensive fighter and of course had great size. The size advantage would be too great Spinks wouldn’t be able to go toe to toe. He d be stopped probably early.
Cooney within 1 round, Leon Spinks is too hittable and Cooney would land devastating combinations since Leon Spinks would be there to hit. Cooney can take Leon’s punches, but Leon can’t take his, and Leon has to fight up close, he can’t box, he’s forced to be in punching range. And when he gets hurt, he doesn’t have the survival skills or movement, he’s basically a sitting duck for Cooney.
Afraid not. Leon Spinks had a seemingly good spirit.. but his style in the ring was all wrong.. except for one night against a seemingly zombie. I watched Ali walk to the ring and immediately predicted an upset loss for him to Spinks. That style would work against an old, impaired man, like Ali.. throw, throw, throw.. non-stop. Not against Cooney though.