30 years ago
Michael Moorer vs George Foreman
Date: 5th November 1994
Venue: MGM Grand, Las Vegas, Nevada
Title: WBA & IBF World Heavyweight Titles
Promoter: Bob Arum, Kathy Duva
Tv: HBO
Michael Moorer
(
35
-
0
-
0
)
Weight: 222 lbs
George Foreman
(
72
-
4
-
0
)
Weight: 150 lbs
On November 5, 1994, George Foreman and Michael Moorer stepped into the ring at the MGM Grand, Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, in a fight that would enter the annals of boxing history. Dubbed "One for the Ages," this bout saw the 45-year-old Foreman challenge the then-26-year-old Moorer for the World Boxing Association and International Boxing Federation Heavyweight Titles. Moorer, the reigning champion and a 3 to 1 betting favourite, was making his first defence of the titles he had won from Evander Holyfield.
The match was a spectacle, broadcast live on HBO and drawing significant attention worldwide. Foreman, who had been on a quest for redemption since his return from a decade-long retirement, was guaranteed $3 million for the fight, while Moorer received $7 million. Despite Foreman's underdog status, the fight attracted a massive audience, with 1.45 million households tuning in via pay-per-view, generating about $55 million in revenue.
Foreman, who had previously lost a decision to Holyfield in 1991 and a WBO championship bout against Tommy Morrison in 1993, entered this fight with something to prove. On the other hand, Moorer had defeated Holyfield by decision to claim the heavyweight titles and was looking to solidify his status as the top heavyweight in the world.
The fight unfolded with Moorer controlling the pace, utilising his jab effectively and keeping Foreman at bay. Judges Jerry Roth and Chuck Giampa scored the fight 88-83, and Duane Ford had it at 86-85, all in favour of Moorer through nine rounds. Foreman absorbed significant punishment but remained resilient, showcasing the toughness that had defined his career.
The fight took a dramatic turn in the tenth round, with Foreman trailing on the scorecards. Foreman, heeding advice from his corner that a knockout was necessary to win, landed a devastating right hand that floored Moorer. Moorer was unable to beat the count, and Foreman was declared the winner by knockout, becoming the oldest boxer in history to win the World Heavyweight Championship, a record that still stands.
The fight, named The Ring Magazine Knockout of the Year for 1994, not only solidified Foreman's comeback but also served as a testament to his enduring power and resilience. Foreman was later stripped of the WBA title for refusing to fight the number one contender, choosing instead to make his first title defence against Axel Schulz.
Foreman's victory over Moorer remains one of the most iconic moments in boxing history, illustrating that age is but a number and that determination and power can defy expectations. The bout's aftermath saw Foreman continue to compete at the sport's highest levels while Moorer recaptured the IBF title, further cementing their legacies in boxing.
Michael Moorer vs George Foreman on YouTube
