Yes, and years after the fact, Leonard also admitted that Hearns whooped his ass in the rematch. It mightn’t be a long list but it would interesting to compile all such admissions. Funny, in some instance you might not agree with said fighter’s admission (viz: those who still think Ali won the rubber match v Norton) On the flip side, despite some controversy over the decision, Earnie Shavers stated flatly that Ali won the their fight.
There's always a 5-10% of fans that will defend any verdict even if it's absurd. If you haven't found them it means your net isnt wide enough.
And Norton said that their first fight could have gone either way. He had no doubts whatsoever that he won the final one, though.
No, that just can't be possible. That I couldn't accept as anything but trolling actually. So good shout. It's not a pro fight, but tbf I didn't make that distinction either in the OP.
Actually, I think Norton said he understood that the second fight could've gone either way. due to how close it was so he didn't necessarily begrudge Ali getting the split nod. Kenny owned the first win for sure (no concessions) and he also felt that he clearly deserved the win in the rubber match.
I thought of this one also and Park Si Hun himself appeared embarrassed by the decision when it was announced.
He's on record saying the first could have gone either way. As is Futch. The quotes were posted in a thread not that long ago.
In Champions Forever, Norton himself stated that he won the first fight, the second fight could’ve gone either way and that he believed he won the third fight. I’d be interested to see that thread that states otherwise.
Wish I could remember which one. I just remember the quotes because I was surprised that either Futch or Norton would say that.