Ali vs. Martin

No, Muhammad Ali isn't coming out of retirement. His daughter Laila Ali (15-0, 12 KO's) is set to fight

Christy Martin (45-2-2, 30 KO's)  on August 23, 2003.

Ali and Martin are arguably two of the best women fighters out there right now. Martin, 35, hasn't fought

since December 6 of last year when she won a unanimous decision over Mia St. John. Ali, 25, is coming

off a six round TKO win over Valerie Mahfood last June. 

Martin usually fights at or around 144 lbs. (welterweight). Ali usually fights at or around 168 lbs. (Super

middleweight). It looks like Martin will be at a disadvantage like St. John was in her bout with Martin as St.

John, up until that bout, was fighting at 128-132 lbs (lightweight).

If Martin, 5' 4",  can land some bombs on the taller Ali, 5' 10", we don't think the rope-a-dope can help Ali

survive.  But then again, if Ali uses her jab and picks her shots, it could go the other way. Look for an all out

brawl fest.

(7/2/03)