“Strange Showdowns: Five of Boxing’s Most Bizarre Bouts”

**From Ali v Inoki to Mayweather v McGregor: ** As Mike Tyson prepares for his controversial bout against YouTuber Jake Paul, let's take a look back at five other memorable and bizarre boxing events. ** vs. ** In 1975, former heavyweight champion George Foreman faced an unusual challenge: fighting five opponents in one afternoon in Toronto. Each match consisted of three three-minute rounds. Muhammad Ali was present, providing his signature commentary for the ABC television network, just six months after their legendary "Rumble in the Jungle." Foreman, looking to restore his reputation, squared off against respectable fighters Alonzo Johnson, , Mac Foster, , and Boone Kirkman. Despite the crowd's boos, Foreman emerged victorious in all five matches. Reflecting on the experience, he stated, “I’d put on a show. I’d fought five guys, and I’d made it through. It was a big victory for me.” **Muhammad Ali vs. Antonio ‘’ Inoki** Nine months after his iconic "Thrilla in Manila" against , Muhammad Ali took on a different kind of opponent in June 1976. He traveled to Tokyo to face the towering Japanese wrestler in a match that promised to crown the "Toughest Man on the Planet," with a hefty purse of $6 million at stake. Ali, who humorously dubbed Inoki “The Pelican” due to his prominent chin, found himself in a bizarre contest at the sold-out Budokan. The match devolved into a spectacle of slapstick, with Inoki spending most of the time on the canvas, delivering kicks while Ali dodged and threw only six punches throughout the 15 rounds. These matches are just a glimpse into the world of unconventional boxing bouts that have captured the public's imagination over the years.