Coevett wrote:
trollism wrote:
Leon Spinks was undefeated when he beat the decidedly aging Ali.
The rematch against Ali was his first defeat.
Yes, and he was also the light-heavyweight Olympic Champion so hardly average.
And Ken Norton proved he was a great fighter and had a great career, beating most of the other top guys and controversially losing to Larry Holmes via split decision.
Leon Spinks was a hack, there is no denying this. He wasn't even a heavy weight. Any many thought Spinks won the second match.
"Spinks turned pro as soon as he returned to the United States. He put on a few pounds and began fighting as a heavyweight. On 15 February 1978, after only seven pro fights, he took on Muhammad Ali for the heavyweight title, and upset him. In September of 1978, Ali again fought Spinks and regained the title, but in a close, controversial decision. Spinks’ reign as heavyweight champion was the shortest in history – 212 days. Leon Spinks was small for a heavyweight. In the late 70s a new class was formed for fighters like him – the cruiserweight division. Leon Spinks continued to box professionally and made an attempt to win the cruiserweight championship, but never matched his early professional success. He fought until 1995, but was a punching bag later in his career, ending it with a record of 26 wins, 17 losses, and 3 draws."
No GOAT should ever lose to this guy. Ali fought him because he thought he was a hack and to avoid fighting Norton.
Man that's just the truth.