Spinks vs Ali I (1978)

Spinks then ranked among the worlds heavyweight challengers made history on February 15 1978 when he beat Muhammad Ali in a 15round decision in Las Vegas Spinks won the world heavyweight title in only his eighth fight the fastest ascent in history An aging Ali had expected and wanted an easy fight but he was outhustled by Spinks who did not seem to tire throughout the bout It was one of the few occasions when Ali had left with a bruised and puffy face Spinks victory over Ali was to be the peak of his career Spinks became the only man to ever take a title belt from Muhammad Ali in the ring Alis other four losses were nontitle contests Spinks iconic gaptoothed grin was featured on the cover of the February 19 1978 issue of Sports Illustrated