How Does a 1964-67 Ali Vs Foreman Fight Go?

Foreman might do better against the 1964 version.

The younger Ali didn't lay on the ropes. The younger Ali wasn't as filled out physically. Aggressive fighters in the early part of the 60s connected pretty good on Ali. A couple dropped him. George was a free swinger. With Ali circling, George may have uncorked one on him.

The mature Ali had more 'old man strength" than the younger 1964 version, too.

Would've been interesting to see.

 

George would last longer than Williams. Maybe 2 more rounds.

 

The Ali against Williams was different than the Ali in 1964. I was thinking more of 1964.

 

In all honesty, Ali was floored by Cooper just because he was dominating the fight, got cocky and went with his usual stupid antics, leaving himself open to a well deserved left hook. But a focused no-nonsense Ali is a different proposition.

Thus, I don't think there is a realistic chance of George flooring Ali, unles he gets cocky just like he did versus Cooper.

Of course, if Ali ever gets caught by George there is not enough smelling salt in the world to save his butt this time.

 

This.

If Ali underestimates George and starts clowning around like he did versus Cooper, he is toast.

 

Ohhh. Fair enough.

Great fight, probably not quite as competitive as Ali-Liston, but lasts longer. George makes it 10 rounds but takes too many punches. He complains but his face is near Stewart-level of pumpkin.

 

Foreman would take more punishment and his head would be used as a pinball machine via Ali's combos.

Foreman's corner would stop the fight around the same time he got knocked out in the Zaire fight.

 

Ali’s hand speed even in 74 made a lot of difference.

With prime hand speed and peak mobility, I could see Ali easily dancing rings around Foreman while abusing him with head shots all the while - and even while mobile, I think Ali could weigh anchor briefly to stun George along the way before landing the coup de grace shots around the mid way point.

Though a relatively light 206 lbs or so, Ali was ultra fast and strong for the 2nd Liston fight and still punched with authority, even during the short time the fight lasted.

Prior to the “phantom” punch, Ali had already jarred Liston with a beautiful straight right hand - and just as he did in Zaire, 60s Ali would enjoy great success with the right hand (including as a lead punch) against Foreman imo.

 

Foreman KO's that version of Ali. I have no doubt about it.