Sullivan vs. Ali (1880s ruleset)

most of the 1880's was london prize rules.

ali has zero idea about that. but it's not like his skillset is useless.

not a crazy fight to suggest, i pick ali but so many unknowns.

 

I think most of the posts in this thread haven't been taking those factors into account. Unless we stipulate in this thread that Ali grew up in John L's environment, I don't think Ali would have been at all interested to fight Sullivan under London Prize Ring rules. I think a lot would have depended on the sturdiness of Ali's hands as compared to Sullivan's, and a lot of other things too. For instance, what do we know about Muhammad's ability as a wrestler? He didn't look so good against Anoki!! That's about the closest Ali ever came to fighting under London Prize Ring rules. (If I could figure out how to add an emoji to this last sentence, it would be the one with a smile and a wink!)

 

I'll take Sullivan under any rule set. Too talented. Too accomplished. Too slick.