46 years ago

Date: 15th September 1978

Title: WBA World Heavyweight Title

Promoter: Top Rank

Tv: ABC Sports

Leon Spinks
( 7 - 0 - 1 )
Weight: 201 lbs

Muhammad Ali
( 55 - 3 - 0 )
Weight: 221 lbs

On September 15, 1978, the Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, played host to one of boxing's most anticipated rematches. Muhammad Ali, the iconic heavyweight, sought to reclaim his title from Leon Spinks in a bout that captivated the world.

The fight drew an unprecedented indoor attendance of 63,350, setting a new record for boxing. ABC's live broadcast reached an estimated 90 million viewers across 80 nations, with a staggering 46.7% of U.S. television sets tuned in.

Ali, entering the ring as a 2½-1 favourite, employed a strategic game plan. He jabbed relentlessly, clinched when Spinks pressed forward, and danced around the ring, frustrating his younger opponent. This tactic proved effective, though excessive holding cost Ali the fifth round.

The fight's build-up was not without drama. Spinks' corner faced a pre-fight crisis when they realized they'd forgotten essential equipment, including his protective cup. This chaos extended into the fight, with Spinks' trainers implementing a convoluted system for giving advice between rounds, leading to George Benton walking out after the fifth round.

Despite these distractions, Spinks fought valiantly, but Ali's experience and revised strategy proved too much. The judges scored the bout overwhelmingly in Ali's favour: 10-4, 10-4, and 11-4. The Associated Press had it even wider at 12-3 for Ali.

Ali achieved a historic milestone with this victory, becoming the first three-time World Heavyweight Champion. It was a fitting capstone to an illustrious career, with Ali announcing his retirement shortly after the fight, though he would return to the ring twice more before finally hanging up his gloves.

The bout's significance extended beyond the ring. It represented Ali's redemption after his shocking loss to Spinks seven months earlier and cemented his legacy as one of boxing's greatest. For Spinks, despite the loss, the fight marked the pinnacle of his career and a moment of respect, as he later stated, "I congratulated Ali. He is still my idol."