Ali vs Liston II: Reliving the Controversy from May 25, 1965

Muhammad Ali will forever be remembered among boxing’s greatest legends. He retired with a record of 56-5, including 37 KOs. He was involved in many of the most talked-about matchups, including “The Rumble in the Jungle” against George Foreman. On May 25, 1965, it was Muhammad Ali vs Sonny Liston II, one of the most controversial fights in boxing history, and we’re taking you back to relive it.

Muhammad Ali vs Sonny Liston II: Revisiting the Controversy

Clay vs Liston: Controversy from First Fight to Rematch

The first fight saw Cassius Clay showcase his superior speed and movement, as he slipped and countered Liston in the early rounds. His combination punching was eye-catching. Liston settled down in the second round, whipping in hurtful hooks on Clay.
At the end of the fourth round, Clay complained of a burning sensation in his eyes. Theories regarding that still rumble to this day. By the sixth round, his vision appeared to have cleared and he was back in control.

There are differing reports on what happened next. Some claim Liston refused to continue due to shoulder paralysis. He failed to answer the bell for the seventh round, and Clay was declared the winner. Soon after, Clay decided to join the Nation of Islam and become Muhammad Ali.

Following the fight, rumours swirled that the bout had been fixed, but an investigation found no conclusive evidence to support those claims. A rematch was inevitable.

Muhammad Ali vs Sonny Liston II

The controversy surrounding the first fight continued, especially after news of an immediate rematch clause emerged. Injuries and the assassination of Malcolm X added further intrigue ahead of the second bout.

The rematch finally took place in Lewiston, Maine, on May 25, 1965. After the drama of the first fight, it became known as the most controversial fight of all time.

Midway through the opening round, Liston collapsed to the canvas, and the legend of “The Phantom Punch” was born. Watching the replay, Ali lands a short, sharp right hand to Liston’s head.

Referee Jersey Joe Walcott failed to administer a proper count as he tried to control a celebrating Ali. A groggy Liston got to his feet, and Walcott sought confirmation from the timekeeper, who seemed to confirm Liston had been down for more than 10 seconds. Meanwhile, Ali resumed throwing heavy punches, and Walcott eventually stepped in to wave off the fight.