If the public accepted Sonny Liston as a champion(He stated he would be a good champion like his idol Joe Louis) instead of disregard and not even greeting the new champion at the airport(Broke his heart). Does he stop Ali????????
It probably would have made some difference to him, I like to think he wouldn't have hit the booze again. But Ali would always have meant his undoing.
First off, Down in Florida for the first Liston vs. Clay bout, Sonny had a slight-edge in popularity. Cassius was not that popular from 1960 thru 1964. But, the public was just starting to warm-up to Sonny in late-1963. Despite being his own worst enemy, Sonny was trying to be a good champion.
The powers that be wanted Liston out. He was seen as bad for boxing, because of his criminal record. Clay was a money maker. He was much a showman as he was a boxer. His pro wrestling type, pre-fight mouthings and antics drew a crowd. I think that's the reason Liston had to go.
It would have made no difference whatsoever to the results of the Ali fights. Sonny may have lived longer if he'd been more popular,though.
