The upset that made a legend—before he was even called Ali.
The 32 year old Liston defended his title against the 22 year old Clay on February 25, 1964, in Miami Beach, Florida, Clay weighed in at 206lbs while Liston was 218 lb. Many of those watching were surprised during the referee's instructions to see that Clay was considerably taller than Liston, the so called 'Big Bear'.
Editing
Tight 45 minutes—no fat, all fight.
Production
Grainy Miami footage feels stolen from time.
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This fight made Clay a Muslim overnight—Malcolm X was ringside, and the Nation of Islam saw their moment.
Only 8,000 people showed up in Miami Beach; Liston was such a heavy favorite that bettors wouldn't take the fight.
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