Sporting Witness
Sporting Witness
Chuck Wepner: The real-life Rocky who floored Ali
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September 16, 2023
10 minutes
Available for over a year
When part-time fighter Chuck Wepner is given a shot to fight heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali in 1975, no one gives him a chance.
But his heroism in the ring knocked down all expectations, including those of the champ, and inspired a cinematic saga in the process.
He speaks to Ben Wyatt about the build up and the big fight itself.
This is a Comuniqé production for the BBC World Service.
(Photo: Chuck Wepner takes a swing at Muhammad Ali in the second round of their heavyweight title bout in March 1975. Credit: Getty Images)