How well did Ali adapt against Frazier and Norton?

Louis and Johnson didn't have the reach and strength of Ken Norton. Had Nortons arms been a couple of inches shorter, he himself been a couple of inches shorter, and/or weighed about 10 pounds less(Off that shredded frame), he'd have given Ali quite a bit less trouble, in my opinion.

 

That's faulty to me. Johnson is one of the strongest HW's i've ever seen in terms of physical strength. That's obvious from looking at how he manhandles fighters in the clinch. If anything i'd say that was one of his strongest points. Louis wasnt as physically strong, but certainly he could hold his own. As for reach, that only is part of the reason that Norton gave him so many fits. That neutralization of the lead with parries and block and counter was what made the difference. Johnson is arguably the GOAT at this particular skill and Louis was no slouch at parrying himself. Reach and height help determine a contest of leads. they don't guarantee success

 

He was stick n' moving more in the second fight, I think that may have helped. But either way mr futch seems to agree with me on the catching at least. I haven't watched the third so i can't comment.

Norton's pressure, competent lead, strong body attack and left hook were other factors that played into Ali's weaknesses. But i think his manipulation of the opponent's jab was a huge factor.