This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/1/2010
On 6/26/76, Muhammad Ali fought Antonio Inoki in a wrestler vs boxer match in Tokyo, Japan. Antonio Inoki, the top wrestling star in Japan, was trying to prove that professional wrestling was the greatest form of martial arts. Prior to this match, he had beaten Olympic Judo Gold Medalist Willem Ruska. Muhammad Ali was the World Boxing champion. A year earlier he beat Joe Frazier in "The Thrilla in Manila."
The majority of the match saw Inoki on his back kicking Ali’s leg. In the 15 rounds, Ali threw less than a dozen punches. Disappointing fans in attendance who expected to see something special.
This 18" by 24" poster is the American version of the many different fight posters that were created to advertise the event (mostly in Japan). Due to the time zone differences, the bout was seen on June 25 at only 150 closed circuit TV locations in the U.S. It was the final match shown on wrestling cards throughout the country. The particular telecast anyone saw depended on where they lived and what their local wrestling territory was. With broadcasting difficulties and limited viewership there was little interest in the event stateside and little made about the match due to the severe rule restrictions for both men.
The offered poster is rarely seen but has survived in remarkable condition. Minimally EX-MT with only a minor turned corner on the top left and a few subtle surface wrinkles.