When would have been the perfect time for Ali to retire?

Ali should have retired after Manilla. Frazier landed more than 400 punches in that fight, and Ali shouldn't have had to face Spinks, Holmes or Shavers.

 

As one who never likes to see an old Athlete pushed out the door before he is ready(though boxing IS different) I would have like to seen him retire with his last little spec of glory ( before 60,000 fans ),when he became the first man the win the Tiltle belt 3 times over beat Spinks. That was enough.

 

Perfect would have been after Foreman ... Last decent time was Manila ... Last sane time was Norton 3 ...

 

After becoming three time champ.

 

I'd say after his close shave win against Earnie Shavers in '77.......

MR.BILL

 

Manila.

 

after Frazier 3.....enough wars

 

Manila. It would have saved the damage he received in his quest for that "3 time champion" crap.

 

If he would've stayed retired after the 2nd spinks fight it would've been the perfect ending. Winning the title for the third time in front of 70,000 screaming fans should have satisfied his ego. It doesn't get any better than that. Unfortunately it didn't quench his thirst.

 

I have not read through this thread, but I think he should have retired after the third fight with Frazier.

 

After the Thrilla.

 

AFter Spinks 2

 

Legacy wise, he should've quit after Norton 3. As far as health goes, he should have quit before fighting Frazier the third time.

 

after the thrilla

 

Upon reciept of his new bicycle.