Muhammad Ali defended his undisputed world heavyweight title against Jean-Pierre Coopman

Date: February 20, 1976

Venue: Roberto Clemente Coliseum, San Juan, Puerto Rico

Ali stance: orthodox

Coopman stance: orthodox

Muhammad Ali regained the undisputed heavyweight title when he knocked out George Foreman in The Rumble in the Jungle. His first defence was tougher than expected as Chuck Wepner scored a knockdown in the ninth round and was stopped wirth just a few seconds remaining in the 15th round. The next defence was against Ron Lyle, and Ali emerged victorious from another bruising encounter with an 11th round stoppage. Ali then won on points against Joe Bugner and in his most recent bout was pushed all the way by Joe Frazier in The Thrilla in Manlla.

Jean-Pierre Coopman turned pro in 1972 and all but one of his fights had taken place in his native Belgium. Before challenging Ali, Coopman had won eleven bouts in a row, with the biggest name on his record being former title challenger Terry Daniels. Ali needed an easy defence after his near-death struggles with Frazier, and Coopman was the perfect opponent.

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

Muhammad Ali - https://boxrec.com/en/proboxer/000180

Jean-Pierre Coopman - https://boxrec.com/en/box-pro/16595