Across Seven Seas and Thirteen Rivers

   He is dancing, bouncing and shuffling. He is gyrating around his opponent, with his graceful footwork, lightning speed, great power and remarkable stability.  I focus my binoculars on Muhammad Ali (Cassius Clay) the reigning World Heavyweight Champion. In his blue-striped white trunks, red gloves, and hand-painted boxing shoes—not a mark on his face—his stance straight and unorthodox, he looks the picture of confidence. He is defending his title against challenger Brian London, the European Heavyweight Champion, aka the British Bulldog. London in his orthodox classic stance, white-striped red trunks and red gloves—his face bearing marks of many past bouts—feet shoulder distance apart planted firmly on the mat, he looks rugged and courageous. Ali is dancing and gliding like a figure skater and London responding to his gyration with minimal footwork. They are already 90 seconds into Round 3. This is happening at Earls Court Center in London. A magnificent arena wit...