Replies

[wolterb]

Would Foreman have beaten Ali in a rematch had it taken place in 74' or within a couple years after?

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My opinion is, Yes he absolutely would have! Ali is thee luckiest boxer on this planet when it came to his career (imho). One such example is the outcome of the rumble in the jungle. If fate exists, it appeared to be on the side of Ali in that first fight.

Had a rematch happened, Foreman would've battered Ali and maybe put him on the canvas too on way to a decision win.

What does everyone else think?

[neophyte7]

Speculation in 'this sport' is cake but alright. you don't like my word choice of luck - may i substitute it with fortunate? Ali was fortunate that Foreman played into his strategy so well. Not everyone would have. On another night Foreman would not have, in a rematch he sure as hell would not have. Also, I would say the rumble in the jungle is indicative of when Ali won fights based on his popularity and sheer tenacity and less and less by ring intelligence or athleticism. It is hard to say how a rematch would have played, but condescending to state that in a thread begging the very question.
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There is no such thing as luck in having someone play into well thought out strategy.. well, maybe a tiny bit but overall Ali displayed brilliant execution of strategy. Foreman in a rematch would have been a formidable foe because of course he would make adjustments, but the only way he could have won is if Ali was diminished physically to the point of not being able to execute sound strategy. Other than try to swarm and pressure Ali, Foreman would have no chance. So it would all boil down to the physical condition of Ali...