This was long after Ali was way past his prime. Holmes was a sparing partner for Ali, and during Ali's prime, Holmes would not have stood a chance.
Ali is an example of many boxers who hang around long after their skills are gone to get another payday.
Its interesting that people write off an Ali vs Holmes fight prime vs Prime. Ask yourself when Ali fought another fighter with his physical advantages and the boxing know how to use those advantages prior too meeting Holmes. Of Course that fight was a mismatch and Ali was past his prime, but even during his prime the only real measuring stick is Ken Norton, whom many believe Ali lost in all three fights. He actually did his best work in the first fight which they gave to Norton.
If you look at Larry Holmes at his absolute best he is a stripped down version of Ali. His days sparring with Ali Taught him what worked well and what didn't.
He knew that too much movement could drain you late in a fight so Holmes was decided he wouldn't dance but he would "step" he wouldn't lean back from punches he would "block and slip". Holmes is one of the best "pick and shoot" fighters of all time. He could catch a jab return fire very quickly.
I actually think Prime for Prime Holmes gives Ali all kinds of trouble and even money for a win.
Lestermount said it perfectly and Ali was just a mere shell of the great fighter he once was when he fought Holmes and Holmes new this himself, not that it was his fault.
If both of their prime, ali would have beaten holmes....I think ali already know that he has a parkinsons disease in this fight...
T'was passing on the torch ceremony. If both were in their prime, Ali would beat homes as easy as 1, 2, 3.
ali always was overrated
wow! what a difference when Ali couldn't do his cheating holding. Holmes kicked his butt. I thought he had it coming, the way he treated some people for years.
