Muhammad Ali, the legendary boxer with a magnetic personality and silky way with words, has named Sonny Liston as his toughest opponent. Ali revealed this in an interview with Ring Magazine, reflecting on their 1964 title fight.
Ali's career was filled with unforgettable moments. He stood up to the US government by refusing the Vietnam War draft. He danced around George Foreman in the Rumble in the Jungle and slugged it out with Joe Frazier in the Thrilla in Manila. But it was Liston who left the deepest impression on the young Ali.
"The toughest would be my fight with Sonny Liston when I won the title in 1964. I was young and a great admirer of Liston's talent."
Ali won that fight for the World Heavyweight Championship when Liston gave up at the start of the 7th round. The victory catapulted Ali to the top of the boxing world.
Ali praised Liston's skills in the ring. He said Liston had a tremendous jab and could punch with either hand. Liston was smart in the ring and as strong as any heavyweight Ali had seen. According to Ali, Liston could do everything except dance.
"Outside of myself, there's never really been a dancing heavyweight,"Ali added, highlighting his unique style.
The pair met again in 1965 for a rematch. Ali won in the opening round, but the fight ended in controversy. A "phantom punch" and a botched count from the referee led to suspicions over the result. Despite this, Ali's admiration for Liston's skills remained unchanged.
Ali's words about Liston carry extra weight given the caliber of opponents he faced throughout his career. His ability to pinpoint Liston as his toughest challenge speaks volumes about Liston's abilities in the ring.
You can read more about Ali's thoughts on his opponents in the full interview with Ring Magazine.
