"Muhammad could take a very good punch. He was slick, he could move, he could hit, make you miss, good hand speed and combinations and one of the greatest fighters of all time in my opinion"

Larry Holmes, a renowned American former professional boxer, provides high praise for Muhammad Ali in this quote, acknowledging Ali's exceptional abilities in the ring. Holmes offers a multifaceted view of Ali's abilities, stressing his strength and technical expertise.

When Holmes mentions that "Muhammad might take a great punch", he acknowledges Ali's amazing ability to hold up against effective blows. This trait is crucial in boxing, where the capability to absorb punishment without surrendering is as essential as providing it. Ali was renowned for his resilience, as evidenced in battles like the "Rumble in the Jungle" versus George Foreman and the "Thrilla in Manila" against Joe Frazier, where he demonstrated both physical and psychological strength.

Holmes' reference of Ali being "slick" and efficient in motion highlights Ali's agility and evasive skills. Ali's footwork was legendary, frequently referred to as permitting him to "drift like a butterfly", allowing him to dodge challengers' attacks with dignity and efficiently. This ability to avert punches with agility and accuracy was a trademark of Ali's design and contributed considerably to his success in the ring.

Holmes further appreciates Ali's offending abilities, noting his hand speed and combinations. Ali was known for his rapid-fire punches and the smooth blending of several strikes into cohesive mixes, frustrating challengers with speed and technique. This aspect of his boxing made it hard for adversaries to prevent his attack and kept them constantly on the defensive.

In concluding that Ali is "one of the best fighters of all time", Holmes lines up with the agreement of many historians, analysts, and fans who see Ali as a boxing icon. This honor stems not just from Ali's excellent record and ability however also from his charisma, influencing the sport's history and culture far beyond the boundaries of the boxing ring. Holmes, having battled Ali and saw his expertise firsthand, uses a testimony to Ali's enduring tradition worldwide of boxing.