Why fans believe it is true: In the first round of their championship rematch, Muhammad Ali knocked Sonny Liston down with a punch that many in attendance did not see, leading to the name, "phantom punch." To add to the confusion, Ali did not immediately retreat to a neutral corner, delaying the referee's count. Liston staggered to his feet after about 20 seconds and resumed the match. However, the referee then stopped the fight after the official timekeeper signaled that he had counted Liston out. This led many to think the fight was rigged.
Why it is probably bunk: When the video is slowed down, it is clear that Liston's head snaps when Ali's glove makes contact with the chin.
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