It was supposed to be a big-money low-risk easy defence for Moorer. Enhancing a credible legacy for Moorer wasn't a factor in this fight. Building his bank account, building his name, and keeping the title were the main things - and to do so with a fight where he's like 10-1 to win was good fortune. Getting KO'd was the cruel irony. I thought Moorer was a bit lucky to get that decision against Holyfield, and Holy was clearly fighting injured. So I wasn't expecting him to stay champion if he ever stepped up against Bowe or Lewis anyway, and he'd be even-money against several other erratic heavyweights of the era. Another irony is that he actually fought a much better and more inspired fight against Foreman than his usual encounters at heavyweight.
Michael Moorer had a hell of a run. He started out at Kronk, with a WBO at Lt. Heavy, had an Iconic, ATG WAR with Bert Cooper, and landed up facing Holy for the title, a fight I KNEW he would win, and he did (I actually watched the fight in the same SportsBar as Actor Gene Hackman)....then another Iconic fight with Foreman in which he did well. Then I BELIEVE he won a 2nd IBF belt against Botha was it? So he won a total of 3 Titles, plus a RING Linnear title. Won a boatload of $$$, a story in SI, and the covers of all the Boxing mags. His little kid, who was in the SI article was about 3 in 1994. He is 17 now, in 10 years will probably be a father. Moorer can show his little grandson or granddaughter all the belts and photos from the Glory Days. Priceless.
All true, and yet, Jack - most people will just remember the Foreman knockout loss. That's exactly why he's still upset about it.
Not true boxing fans. But unfortunatley, you are correct. Losing to Big George in 1994, is NOTHING to be upset at. He was a legitimate threat in the HW division. He beat up Norton and Cooney, and beat Alex Stewart, and even Cooper on his way back up and went 12 life and death with a Prime Holyfield/Morrison. Not bad for an "old man":yep He was a contender like any other at HW in the early 90's and earned his shot. Losing to one of the ATGs at HW is absolutley nothing to be ashamed of. He won every single round except the 10th, and was so ****ing fearless and bold that he stood in front of Foreman, unlike the scared shitless Morrison, who actually ran from Big George. Moorer will always be a favorite of mine.
I will never forget the first magazine interview he was famed for, with the Title... I CRAVE VIOLENCE... I was ringside outdoors at Caesars Las Vegas the night he won the titl from Holyfield.. His entourage had a saying for the fight.. (considering Mike had showed an interest in becoming a police officer or SWAT leader..) They shouted through a loud hailer .. STOP ... YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN VIOLENT...