Muhammad Ali recorded ‘greatest result’ in boxing history as he knocked out legendary heavyweight in monumental upset victory

Muhammad Ali produced perhaps the most compelling performance of his illustrious career to dethrone murderous puncher George Foreman in 1974.

'The Greatest' entered his legendary match in Kinshasa as an all-powerful underdog, with all of Foreman's previous eight stoppages arriving before the third round.

At that point, 'Big George' had forged one of the most formidable undefeated runs in boxing history, ruthlessly defeating the likes of Joe Frazier and Ken Norton.

And yet Muhammad Ali was nevertheless convinced that, one way or another, he would regain the WBC heavyweight title he lost to Frazier three years earlier.

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Muhammad Ali defeats George Foreman in a compelling Rumble in the Jungle spectacle

Ali had defeated Frazier in twelve rounds in the second edition of their iconic trilogy, ahead of his highly anticipated showdown with Foreman.

But before that, the Olympic gold medalist had suffered his second professional defeat at the hands of Norton, despite fighting valiantly against a broken jaw.

And while he essentially avenged the loss after taking a split decision in their immediate rematch, his performance certainly lacked the momentum that quickly became synonymous with Foreman's career.

Foreman, on the other hand, had destroyed Frazer when they clashed in Jamaica, flooring his smaller and sturdier opponent six times before stopping proceedings in the second round.

Also against Norton, the relentless pressure of the pulverizing puncher proved to be too much for the decorated former champion, who eventually succumbed to another fierce attack in the second round.

And so it was clear that, heading into their mouth-watering showdown in Africa, Foreman was the man almost everyone expected to emerge victorious.

But when the pair finally locked horns, it quickly became clear that Ali had chosen to adopt a daring but brilliant game plan, relying on his granite chin to absorb a punishing spell in the early rounds.

Soon the captivating American began to take over – having absorbed his fair share of haymakers – before stopping a tired Foreman with a stunning finish in the eighth round.

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Tony Bellew celebrates the 50th anniversary of George Foreman vs. Muhammad Ali

Fifty years after their thrilling encounter, former world cruiserweight champion Tony Bellew has branded Ali's win as the “best result of any boxer.”

50 years ago, to the day Muhammad Ali went to Kinshasa and against all odds dethroned the great George Foreman!

I believe this is the best result of any boxer in any division considering what Foreman did previously with Frazier and Norton.

The people who love boxing… pic.twitter.com/Dz7o83vxKX

— Tony Bellew (@TonyBellew) October 30, 2024

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The Brit also recognizes the profound impact that 'When We Were Kings', one of the greatest sports documentaries ever made, had on American society at the time.

But perhaps even more than that: the documentary film will always be remembered for its perfect portrayal of the intensity and magnitude of Foreman and Ali's dusty situation.

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