Nov. 15, 1962 - Cassius Clay takes the biggest step in his brief boxing career tonight when he enters the ring against the experienced Archie Moore in a 12-round heavyweight bout. The bout has proved such a box office attraction that the promoter, Cal Eaton, said today it would be a virtual sellout in the Los Angeles Sports Arena and might gross a $180,000 live gate. Although he has had only 15 fights, Clay, 20, is undefeated. He could emerge as a major contender for Sonny Liston’s heavyweight crown if he beats Moore, whose age is a closely guarded secret. Most sources say Moore is nearing the 50-year mark. Clay, the 1960 Olympic light-heavyweight champion, has presented such a good case for himself verbally and has looked so sharp in his workouts that he has been installed a 2-1 favorite over Moore. Moore, who also talks well — although on a more dignified plane, as befits an elder statesman — has vowed to teach the young boxer from Louisville a hard lesson. Clay has predicted he would knock Moore out in four rounds.
Comments