After the difficult time he had with Earnie Shavers, Muhammad Ali wanted an easy title defense. His pick was 1976 Olympic gold medalist Leon Spinks, a novice pro at best with a 7-0 record. The bout was set for February 15th at the Hilton in Las Vegas. Ali trimmed down to a fairly fit 224 1/2 lbs., while his young opponent tipped the scales at 197 1/4.
The fight was broadcast live on CBS tv, and it was obvious from the start that Spinks had come prepared. He forced Ali to the ropes continuously, and the champ went into a shell, but was taking damage early and often. Ali couldn’t hurt Spinks, and his punches that landed had little effect. An upset seemed imminent as the bout reached the championship rounds, with Ali rallying to try to rescue his title. At the close it was obvious to me and most that Spinks had shocked the world. When the final scorecards were read, of course one judge had ridiculously called Ali the winner. Fortunately justice prevailed, and Leon was given the decision. There was a new champion of the world, and his name was Leon Spinks.
Gracious in defeat, it was obvious to me that Ali was shot, and his days on top were finished. Whether he would retire after such a loss was doubtful, with it hard for ‘The Greatest’ to end his career on such a flat note. Talks of a rematch began soon after and by spring, it was certain Ali would get a chance to regain his crown.
FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM AT kensoldtimeboxingchat
