Lets say Michael Spinks fought Louis in 1941 and Liston in 1960. Most would pick Louis and Liston to win, but I think that Spinks would be competitive vs both with his style. Although, I'd give him a better chance to upset Liston than Louis because Liston didn't have the sudden and explosive speed of hand that Louis did. And with that said, I think that like Machen, Spinks perhaps could last the distance with Liston. Neither Joe Louis or Sonny Liston had the foot speed of a young Mike Tyson. Louis was better at cutting the ring off than Liston. I pick Louis by KO late, after being rocked or taking perhaps a KD and I pick Liston by UD. Simply because Liston had trouble cutting off the ring and average handspeed.
Spinks didn't take much of a punch at heavyweight and fought accordingly. He'd last some time vs these guys because he would run and pitty pat. Louis would calmly go after him and eventually time him. It could come early, it could come later. Louis had blazing handspeed and it would be just a matter of time. He also would not neglect the body. Spinks wouldn't be able to wait for him to tire as he did Holmes. Louis retained his power late and paced himself well. Liston would have to chase Spinks all night but i am sure he would find him. Any good clean punch could be the beginning of the end for Spinks. Liston's jab would hold him in great stead and had enough power to worry Spinks i would say. Liston would rap the body whenever the chance presented itself. Again i'd pick him to stop Spinks at some point. Spinks chin is unproven at Heavyweight.
Out and...out. Let's say a 1941 Spinks fought Louis in 1941. Let's say a 1960 Spinks fought Sonny in 1960. Let's say we look at 1985 versions of the Brown Bomber & the Bear vs. a 1985 Spinks? Again...out and out. Next thread.
