How did Jean Pierre Coopman get his title shot vs Ali?

What was his ranking?

Coopman had decent record 24-3 on paper, but his biggest win was DQ vs completely shot Terry Daniels (who in his very short prime - years before - was no more than a fringe contender).

Other than that, Coopman's best win was 10 round decision vs German Bernd August whose career peak was challenging British Jorneyman Richard Dunn for vacant EBU HW title (Dunn KO'd him easily in 3 rounds).

Coompan also had 3 losses (jorneyman Rudi Lubbers being the biggest name out of these 3).

So how highly was he ranked when he challenged Ali? And where the idea of fighting such an unheralded challenger came from?

Coopman could barely be ranked as top-50 fighter at the time of the fight based on real career achievements.

 

And is it true that Coopman was drinking champagne between the rounds in the title fight?

 

Agree, and most champions with long reigns had soft defenses. But it is interesting where did Ali's team found Coopman who was virtually unknown for anyone?