Cassius Clay vs Sonny Liston I: The Fight that Changed the World of Sports

[elmersalsa]

Fifty five years ago, the fight that changed not only boxing, but the world of sports happened in a day like today in Miami Beach, FL.

Cassius Clay wins the World Heavyweight Championship by stopping the champion Sonny Liston in 7 bizarre rounds.

What really happened in Miami Beach?

[Ambling Alp II]

Obviously a pivotal point in boxing history. What really happened? Clay (Ali) was way too fast for Liston, with both his footwork and his hand speed. Clay was able to land clean punches without getting hit much himself. (Even in the round where he could barely see, Liston could not get to him.) He was also amazingly accurate.
Liston knew he was getting completely out-boxed and would not win. He then quit after six rounds instead of taking more punishment.
Tremendous performance in that Clay was able to defeat a great fighter that easily.
The Ali era began.

[elmersalsa]

Obviously a pivotal point in boxing history. What really happened? Clay (Ali) was way too fast for Liston, with both his footwork and his hand speed. Clay was able to land clean punches without getting hit much himself. (Even in the round where he could barely see, Liston could not get to him.) He was also amazingly accurate.
Liston knew he was getting completely out-boxed and would not win. He then quit after six rounds instead of taking more punishment.
Tremendous performance in that Clay was able to defeat a great fighter that easily.
The Ali era began.

Clay's/Ali's jab and speed was something to see in that fight.