A Bold Prediction
In January 1964, 22-year-old Cassius Clay trained in a small Miami Beach gym, preparing for his fight against Sonny Liston, the reigning heavyweight champion.
Few believed in him. Sportswriters dismissed him, bookmakers made him a 7-to-1 underdog, and boxing insiders predicted he wouldn’t last a round. But Clay wasn’t intimidated. After one workout, he autographed a glove with a declaration: “Next Heavyweight Champion of the World.”
The Road to February 25, 1964
The young fighter trained with unmatched intensity. Reporters noted his blistering hand speed, which Sports Illustrated measured at just 0.19 seconds for a jab and 2.15 seconds for a six-punch combination. Despite his natural talent, doubts remained.
Out of 46 journalists covering the fight, 43 predicted a Clay defeat. Liston, known for his power and ties to organized crime, was expected to dominate. But Clay’s confidence never wavered.
The Weigh-In and the Doubts
On the morning of the fight, Clay shouted at Liston during the weigh-in, needing to be restrained. When doctors found his heart rate spiking at 120 beats per minute, many assumed he was terrified. Rumors circulated that he might not even show up.
Critics disliked his unorthodox defensive style, leaning back instead of slipping punches, but Clay stayed committed to his approach.
The Night Clay Shook the World
On February 25, 1964, Clay entered the ring standing 6’3″ and weighing 210 pounds, towering over expectations. From the opening bell, he used his speed, footwork, and precision to frustrate Liston. After seven rounds, Liston—cut, bleeding, and exhausted—remained on his stool, refusing to continue.
Clay erupted in celebration, shouting at reporters, “Eat your words!” That night, his bold prediction came true: Cassius Clay became the new heavyweight champion of the world.
January 1964, Miami Beach. A 22-year-old Cassius Clay trained in a seedy gym for Sonny Liston.
Bookmakers made him a 7 to 1 underdog.
After a workout he signed a glove: “Next Heavyweight Champion of the World.”
He underscored the line. pic.twitter.com/1ttCvvsQXk
— Fascinating True Stories (@FascinatingTrue) September 4, 2025
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