Holmes dismissed the idea that Usyk could have given Ali a hard time despite the Ukrainian’s outstanding run through the heavyweight division.
“Why is Ali beating Usyk? The styles of the two fighters are different. Ali would come in there and do what he’s trained to do, so I’m not sure Usyk will be able to handle him. He’ll lose from round one.”
Usyk recently vacated the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles after completing one of the strongest championship runs of the four-belt era. The Ukrainian defeated Anthony Joshua twice, Tyson Fury twice and Daniel Dubois before relinquishing the belts, which renewed debate about where he ranks among the heavyweight greats.
However, Holmes believes heavyweight boxing has changed since his era.
“I don’t think today’s fighters have the heart of the guys from the 70s and 80s. We had determination and will to go out there for 15 rounds. Today’s fighters could never do 15 rounds. I believe I would have beaten them all. I was always ready. Every fight was like the last serious one.”
Ali’s footwork, forehand and ability to control the distance are the attributes that Holmes believes would have made the difference.
The former heavyweight champion also weighed in on suggestions that Usyk should retire after his latest victory, saying the decision only belonged to the fighter.
“Usyk was victorious. He did what he had to do. And you never stop when you feel like you can go on. You can’t go on what the fans say. Fans love you and hate you whether you retire or keep fighting, so I think he should follow his heart.”
Holmes added that he had no problem with the stoppage in Usyk’s most recent fight, believing the referee made the right call once his opponent was no longer defending himself.
The former heavyweight champion also questioned the growing crossover between boxing and mixed martial arts, saying Muhammad Ali would never have supported the direction Dana White was taking.
“Ali wouldn’t agree with what he’s doing. UFC and boxing are two separate sports. Keep it that way.”
Holmes’ comments in an interview with Canada Casino, where he also discussed the current heavyweight division, Usyk’s future and the changing landscape of professional boxing.
