Heavyweight Boxing Appraisal

Signed Cassius Clay vs. Sonny Liston 'Phantom Punch' Photograph

This is a color photograph depicting the iconic 'phantom punch' moment from the Cassius Clay (later Muhammad Ali) vs. Sonny Liston heavyweight championship fight on May 25, 1965. The image captures the instant Sonny Liston is knocked down, with Cassius Clay (wearing white shorts and red gloves) standing over him, gesturing as if telling him to get up. Liston is seen sprawled on the canvas, wearing dark shorts and red gloves, with his left leg raised and right arm extended. The background shows a portion of the crowd and the dark boxing ring canvas. The photograph itself appears to be a modern print, not a vintage one, given its crisp colors and likely photographic paper. It is in good condition with no visible tears, significant creases, or fading, though some faint surface scratches or dust might be present. A key feature of this item is the prominent signature in black marker on the lighter part of the canvas where Liston is lying. The signature reads 'Cassius Clay' followed by an inscription that is partially obscured but appears to include 'vs Liston' and 'May 1965'. The authentication or provenance of the signature is not provided in a visible form. This piece functions as a commemorative sports collectible, appealing to boxing enthusiasts and collectors of sports memorabilia, especially those interested in legendary figures like Muhammad Ali. The size appears to be a standard photographic print, possibly 8x10 or larger, and it isn't framed, suggesting it's ready for presentation or storage. The quality of the reproduction of the historical image is high, and the signature adds significant potential value.