Patterson Talks Ali

May 28, 1965 - Floyd Patterson arrived in Sweden today to begin training and insisted that he would fight Muhammad Ali (pictured today in Harlem) “sometime in September or October” for the heavyweight championship.

“I have a promise from Clay we will meet in the ring next fall,” said Patterson. The former two-time champ did not indicated where he thought the bout might be held.

Patterson said he had heard reports that Muhammad Ali, formerly Cassius Clay, was prepared to meet Canadian George Chuvalo first. “However, I’ve got Clay’s word, and that is enough for me. I am sure Chuvalo will not meet Clay before me.”

“Clay is a good boxer and is always underestimated,” Patterson said at the airport. “I will give him a good fight, and I am hoping to win the title back. I am starting work right away.

“Like most people, I thought it would be Liston I would have to meet next. I am convinced I could beat him now. But I will be ready for Clay when the time comes.”Referring to Tuesday’s one-minute bout at Lewiston, Maine, where Ali knocked out Liston to retain his title, Patterson said: “The fight certainly was not fixed. I was sitting right below when Clay’s right fist landed. It was a solid punch.” 

Asked if Liston, who demolished Patterson twice inside the first round, could have gotten up, Floyd said: “I am sure he could not. He is too old and slow in his reactions. I don’t think he could face up to that kind of punch.”

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