I'd like to see that version of Cleveland in a fight with Evander Holyfield. Evander would be the obvious favorite but I would count out Williams when the bombs start falling
I’m actually shocked Liston didn’t just throw a left hook, Cleveland left his chin out there and was throwing with complete sloppy abandon.
Due respect but that’s a strange clip to offer to highlight Liston’s defence. Not that Liston didn’t have good defence which there are other examples of, including in this very fight - but the clip captures Williams big moment, nailing Sonny multiple times with huge shots - perhaps there are a couple that Liston does avoid - so yeah, def. give Liston credit for that, especially while under such heavy artillery.
Truth is when someone gets hit by 2 bomb like that it is really hard to deploy effective defensive in the next several seconds. Liston was very skilled, but Foreman said only 3 guys hit him with such force that you do not even feel it, just go numb. I'll bet y'all can figure out who the last guy was. Funny thing is he did not mention Liston, likely due to just sparring & not getting tagged quite like this. But you know Williams was one of them. Just staying upright under these circumtances is something few people could do.
Exactly Swag. That is some chin Sonny upheld in both their clashes. That first right hand that Williams lands is insane - literally driving Liston’s head below and partially through the top rope strand. The degree of force being irrefutable. I guess I was a bit harsh - there is a bit of both in the clip - Liston getting bombed but still having the mind to skilfully avoid a few other bombs heading his way - bombs that could’ve made things even worse for Sonny. Jesus, when Williams sniffed blood he really let go, didn’t he? - but the shots he threw were still very well educated, not wild. The two Liston vs Williams fights are among my very favourites. Two extremely well conditioned, skilful fighters with exceptional power to go. That much better than Foreman vs Lyle imo, as was Lyle vs Shavers also - the latter fight also being an ATG slugfest with no abate until Earnie finally fell.
