This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/20/2011
Among the most rare and coveted boxing advertisements is this cardboard site poster for the 1964 Liston vs. Clay I fight. Clay was an 8-1 underdog and few gave the "Louisville Lip" a chance against the fearsome Liston, who was one of the most powerful, and frankly scary, heavyweights in history. The fight took place at the Miami Beach Convention Hall on February 25, 1964. Clay was undefeated, but the experts believed that he had not fought anyone of skill and had no chance against Liston. From the opening bell, however, Clay had Liston backing up and confused. At the end of the sixth round, Liston never got off his stool and a legend was born. Immediately after the fight, Clay announced that he had embraced the Islamic religion and changed his name to Muhammad Ali. He became the most controversial, yet most popular champion in history. Despite the enormous hype for the fight, this poster is an extreme rarity. It remains in extraordinary Excellent to Mint original condition save for filled pinholes in the corners. The poster measures approximately 14 x 22 inches with vibrant original color.