More about this poll
Better Training
Just three days before their scheduled re-match in November, 1964, Muhammad Ali was rushed to the hospital for emergency surgery to repair a strangulated hernia. The recovery time was difficult for the young Ali, but the six-month layoff was much more problematic for Liston. The older Liston was no longer dedicated to the sort of training required for top-caliber bouts. Psychologically, it became nearly impossible for Liston to regain his drive and the confidence needed to take his title from the talented new Champ. Ali came into the May 25, 1965 bout as a 23 year-old at the height of his physical prowess. Liston was in his thirties -- older and struggling to find his top form.
Quicker Feet
The bout lasted only 2 minutes and 12 seconds officially. And only 2,412 people saw the fight. But in that short time, Ali gave a lesson on fast feet to all in attendance. He literally danced circles around the older, slower, and out-witted Liston, keeping the former champ off balance and never giving him a chance to get off a solid shot.
Anchor Punch
The slower and older Liston plodded after the nimble Ali. Liston lurched around the ring for most of the first round, trying to get in a good shot on Ali, lumbering off balance for the full two minutes. Ali landed only two really good blows on Liston before he delivered the punch that ended the fight. As Liston lunged toward the young champ, Ali stepped back, planted his foot, and delivered a vicious counterpunch to the chin that snapped Liston’s head and dropped him to the canvas. Ali would later call it his “anchor punch,” rocketed forth with the kind of speed and precision that would bring even Sonny “The Bear” Liston to his knees, ending the fight and winning for Ali his first title defense.
