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What If George Foreman Got His Rematch Against Ali?
Robert Hanashiro / USA TODAY NETWORK

On October 30, 1974, “The Rumble in the Jungle” went down between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman. It was a heavyweight bout between two of boxing’s most prominent fighters. Could Ali take down the bruting undisputed champion? Or would “Big George” prevail and continue his reign over the boxing world?

The former happened, with Ali taking down the Texas native via knockout in the eighth round. “The Greatest” was back on top of the boxing world, with shattered records and people in awe.

The aftermath consisted of people clamoring for a rematch. Foreman’s powerful punches and frame could be a formidable rival to Ali’s quick movements. Could the former champion figure out the “rope-a-dope” and punish the Louisville native? Unfortunately, there was one problem with this rematch…

George Foreman Never Got His Rematch

Despite seeking a rematch with Muhammad Ali, George Foreman never got his rematch. Some people speculate that the new heavyweight champion was ducking him. In turn, “Big George” faced off against lesser opponents, taking on fighters like Ron Lyle and Scott LeDoux.

On the other hand, Ali accepted rematches with Joe Frazier and Ken Norton, two boxers who previously beat him. Both fighters finished with legendary careers, earning themselves spots in the “greatest ever” discussion.

But what if George Foreman got his rematch? What if the Texas native got another chance at the heavyweight title? Here’s what could’ve happened if Foreman got his wish.

What If Foreman Got His Rematch?

It would’ve likely been for the undisputed heavyweight title again, with George Foreman seeking to regain the belt. But what would’ve happened if he lost to Muhammad Ali again? He would’ve lost some status as one of the best boxers of his time. It would’ve set the narrative that Foreman couldn’t take down Ali, with that haunting him for the rest of his career.

But what if he won? Foreman would’ve gotten title defenses against Joe Frazier and Ken Norton. “Big George” had beaten both competitors, so successful defenses meant he would’ve been known as one of the greatest boxers ever.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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