Ali Wins Title Three Times: Boxing History Made
Muhammad Ali, 36 years old and clearly past his physical prime, outboxed Leon Spinks in a unanimous decision on September 15, 1978, at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans. Seven months earlier, Spinks had shocked the world by taking Ali's title in a split decision. Ali trained intensely for the rematch, losing 20 pounds and employing a disciplined jab-and-move strategy rather than his trademark showmanship. The victory made Ali the first boxer in history to win the heavyweight championship three times. He retired, then unwisely came back for two more fights he lost badly. His legacy as the greatest heavyweight ever was already secure: 56 wins, 5 losses, and three title reigns spanning three different decades.
September 15, 1978
48 years ago
Key Figures & Places
What Else Happened on September 15
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