What Happened On February 25th?
In Miami Beach on February 25th, 1964, possible one of the greatest fights in history was about to go down.
In the ring, two very contrasting figures stood ready…
- The reigning heavyweight champion, Sonny Liston, with a hulking physique, was known for his intimidating presence and raw power.
- The challenger, Cassius Clay (later Muhammad Ali), a young, brash boxer known for his lightning-fast footwork and sharp tongue.
Being complete opposites, this wasn’t just a fight; it was a clash of styles, personalities, and even ideologies.
Clay, who would soon change his name to Muhammad Ali, wasn’t favored. Liston, nicknamed “The Bear,” was considered unbeatable, boasting a 37-1 record with 25 knockouts. This is almost as impressive as the Lakers’ win streak in 1972, as Liston did this all by himself without the assistance of teammates!
Yet, Ali, with his unorthodox “rope-a-dope” technique and relentless taunts, danced and jabbed his way around the ring, frustrating Liston’s attempts to land a decisive blow. Initially skeptical of the young upstart, the crown began to roar with approval as Ali’s agility and speed turned the tide.
In the sixth round, after a questionable punch from Ali, Liston mysteriously refused to return for the seventh, claiming an eye injury. The crowd erupted in a mixture of shock and disbelief. Was it a genuine injury, or a strategic withdrawal?
Regardless, the outcome was clear: Cassius Clay, the self-proclaimed “greatest,” had dethroned the seemingly invincible Sonny Liston. Along with his victory came one of his famous quotes of all time, “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee.”
All across the world, Ali became a cultural icon, especially for young African Americans, such as Arthur Ashe and his rise to greatness. His victory changed the game of boxing, becoming a powerful statement against racial injustice and the establishment.
