Is Muhammad Ali Really The Greatest Of All Time
by adminOne of the most controversial figures in sports throughout the twentieth century, Muhammad Ali was the perfect balance of sublime showmanship and technical expertise. A heavyweight of exceptional hand speed and footwork,
Ali’s ability to move around the ring while inflicting continuous punishment with lightning quick jabs was the hallmark of a career that spanned two decades, and saw him claim the Heavyweight Crown three times.
In his prime Ali didn’t even bother to block punches! His movement was such that an opponent missed by millimeters while leaving himself in the perfect position to counter punch. He did this with such proficiency that in most bouts the jab became his primary weapon. The hard short right hand that knocked out Sonny Liston during the first round of their rematch for the Heavyweight Championship, showed a glimpse of the power Ali could wield on command. Known primarily as a boxer, Ali was never considered a heavy hitter like rivals Joe Frazier, George Foreman, or Ken Norton. It should be noted that he beat all three.
Is Ali the greatest of all time? A record of 56-5 isn’t compelling until you consider that he was undefeated before a suspension for refusing the draft took three years away during the prime of his career. There has never been a fighter who dominated and entertained with as much flair as Ali. His style and panache influences generations of boxers even today.