How Would Michael Spinks Have Done Against Ali (Second Reign)?

There’s a big difference between Ali from the Lyle fight which was 1975 and the post thriller in Manila version, Michael Spinks beats post thriller in Manila version very comfortably, the one from the Lyle fight is a close fight, but I feel like Spinks has the right style to beat Ali at that point, Foreman walked at Ali predictably and that version of Foreman didn’t know how to use the 15 rounds, Spinks is far from predictable and was experienced over the distance when he fought at heavyweight, he’d use angles, level changes and would take Ali’s jab away, then what can Ali do? He didn’t have the feet at that point to stay away, and he’s not beating Spinks at midrange/close range, Ali would have to knock Spinks out and I don’t see it.
With all of this said, I’d pick prime Ali over Spinks, I’d even pick the version that beat Frazier in the rematch, or any motivated version of post exile Ali 1974 or earlier.

 

Yes. Absolutely

 

Ali will make a deal with Spinks to crown himself first three-time champion. It’s a known Spinks weakness open to exploitation.

Failing that, though…Spinks wins the fight, Ali wins the decision.

 

Spinks would outfox the post-Manila Ali and be on course for a comfortable decision...until a late rally by the judges see that the champ retains his crown.

 

Would Ali be jinxed by another Spinks?

Very awkward fight for post 1975 Ali but I think he could still do it (sans biased judges, lol).

Very last legs, 1978 Ali would be beaten though imo.

 

That's it. Depends on the version. Ali's right hand will be potentially dangerous to Spinks at any point, as old Holmes own right was.

 

Yes, old Larry did hurt M Spinks badly at one point with the right hand.

 

He hurt him multiple times over the two fights with right hands. I was surprised how often when i watched the highlight reels recently. Might have to revisit.

 

It was the 14th round of their 2nd fight Holmes really could've finished him off but was totally gassed by that point.

 

As for the thread Ali had a bad habit of sitting on the ropes not doing alot. And the rope a dope wouldn't work vs Spinks plus Ali didn't have his legs anymore so it would be a problem for Ali.

I do agree with @JohnThomas1 that Ali could seriously hurt Spinks with his right hand. Remember Ali in 1975 still had enough power to totally turn the Lyle fight on it's head with one right hand.

All in all though I think Spinks could win a decision.

 

1975 Ali stops Spinks in the latter part of the fight. Up until then Ali would find his opponent awkward.

!976-1978 Spinks wins close decision.

 

If Ali stopped Lyle, he stops Michael. It might go 8 rounds.

Post Thrilla Ali loses a majority decision.