“Trying to hit smoke”- Muhammad Ali’s infamous rope-a-dope which dismantled George Foreman’s devastating attacks leaves new-gen boxing fans in awe

Muhammad Ali is one of the greatest boxers in the history of professional boxing.

“Trying to hit smoke”- Muhammad Ali’s infamous rope-a-dope which dismantled George Foreman’s devastating attacks leaves new-gen boxing fans in awe

Muhammad Ali vs. George Foreman (image credit- The Guardian)

Muhammad Ali and George Foreman fought each other in the legendary ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ fight in 1974. The historic fight happened in Kinshasa, Zaire, which is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Furthermore, Foreman was the reigning heavyweight champion at the time and was known for his incredible punching power. Similarly, Ali, recognizing Foreman’s strength, devised a strategic plan to tire him out and capitalize on his exhaustion. This plan was known as the rope-a-dope, which Ali used to strategically deal with Foreman. 

During the early rounds of the fight, Muhammad Ali adopted a defensive stance, leaning against the ropes and covering up to absorb Foreman’s punches. Furthermore, he would use head and upper body movement to avoid several direct hits. Subsequently, when Foreman did connect, Ali would often clinch to further neutralize Foreman’s attack. Ali planned to let Foreman exert himself, throwing powerful punches that would gradually wear him down. 

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As the fight progressed, Foreman indeed began to tire, while Ali remained relatively fresh. In the later rounds, Ali shifted gears and started landing effective counterpunches. Furthermore, in the eighth round, Ali seized the opportunity when Foreman was fatigued and scored a knockout victory, regaining the heavyweight title. 

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The rope-a-dope strategy showcased Ali’s tactical brilliance and ability to adapt to his opponent’s strengths. It remains one of the most iconic moments in boxing history, highlighting the mental and physical aspects of the sport. 

Fans react to Muhammad Ali’s rope-a-dope 

The ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ bout is widely regarded as one of the greatest fights and the biggest upsets in boxing history. At the time, Foreman was the reigning heavyweight champion, known for his devastating punching power and aggressive style. Furthermore, Ali, the former champion, was considered an underdog against the younger and stronger Foreman. Subsequently, Ali employed a strategic approach known as the ‘rope-a-dope, which gradually burned down Foreman’s stamina in the later rounds.

George Foreman and Muhammad Ali
George Foreman and Muhammad Ali (image credit- The Mirror)

Ali then took advantage of that opportunity and managed to knock out Foreman in the eighth round. This was the first and only knockout loss that Forman suffered in his 76-5-0 professional record. In addition, fans reacted to the video by stating, 

Like trying to hit smoke.

In addition, fans praised Ali for his brilliant and genius skills inside the ring and stated that he avoided over 20 punches. Furthermore, fans mentioned that Foreman should have aimed for Ali’s body instead of his head. 

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