George Foreman vs Ron Lyle- boxing - heavyweights

George Foreman vs Ron Lyle for the vacant NABF heavyweight title, scheduled for 12 rounds

Date: January 24, 1976

Venue: Caesars Palace, Nevada

George Foreman stance: orthodox

Ron Lyle stance: orthodox

After George Foreman lost his heavyweight world titles to Muhammad Ali in The Rumble in the Jungle in 1974, he spent 15 months out of the ring (Foreman did have five three-round exhibition bouts in a single night in 1975, but these are not counted in his pro record). At the time, Foreman blamed just about everyone except himself for his loss to Ali. For this fight, he had a new trainer - the highly respected Gil Clancy. There was talk of major changes to Foreman's boxing style, and improvements made to his stamina.

Ron Lyle took up boxing while serving a sentence for second degree murder. He did so well as an amateur boxer fighting on prison cards that a pro gym and a basketball team, among others, successfully campaigned for Lyle to be given parole. By the time Lyle turned pro, he was already 30 years old. After winning his first 19 fights, Lyle recorded his first loss - on points - when he fought Jerry Quarry in 1973. Eleven wins and a draw later, Lyle lost a points decision to Jimmy Young. Just three months later, he challenged Muhammad Ali, in May 1975, losing a very competitive fight in the 11th round. Lyle regrouped, and stopped Earnie Shavers in the sixth round in September 1975.

The bout between Foreman and Lyle is considered on the the most dramatic and exciting heavyweight fights of all time.

For an in depth look at their respective records, visit:

George Foreman - George Foreman - https://boxrec.com/en/proboxer/90

Ron Lyle - https://boxrec.com/en/proboxer/226