Sonny Liston vs Ken Norton

[DrDuke]

Prime vs Prime,

Liston of late 50s - early 60s against Norton of 1973-1978.

Who would you pick to win and why?

[Tony1244]

Liston KO8

[DrDuke]

I won't call this match-up very predictable. Norton looked more advanced and that is logical, as Norton was competing later. However, Ken failed to suggest something against big punchers like Foreman and Shavers. Liston was obviously a big puncher, very effective in offence. So, Norton is likely to take a decision, while Liston is likely to score a KO. Probably if Sonny failed to do that in early rounds, Ken would have won in the result on the scorecards.

[Tony1244]

Norton was an excellent fighter as he proved against Ali, Quarry and others. But I didn't call him a great fighter as his chin may make him come up a bit short to be great.

Liston's lamppost like jab would set up his power punches which Is why I predicted Liston KO 8. Liston didn't rush out like Foreman or Shavers, which is why I went with 8. If Norton fought the perfect fight, his faster hands certainly could have given him a decision. But he would have to avoid that power which would have been a tall task for Ken.

[gilgamesh]

Liston KO8

Sounds about right...might be a little sooner. Like 6 or 7, but you're in the ballpark I reckon.

[tennessee]

Would be interesting matchup. As long as Norton doesn't freeze up he should win a dec.

[Kalan]

It wouldn't be like the Foreman fight, but Liston had a similar style... It would just take Sonny longer to kill him.

If you came at Sonny Liston head first he could take your head off... (See Patterson Fights).