In the ring, I never really knew fear.

I was on my face. I heard the count from one to 10. I kept telling myself that I had to get up, but I couldn't move. I couldn't make myself move. It was the strangest feeling.

Liston is like most big bullies, if you can stay away and make him miss for a few rounds he'll get frustrated. Once you strip away that feeling of invincibility, he can be had.

What could be better than walking down any street in any city and knowing you're the heavyweight champion of the world?

That was a f****g dumb question. If I didn't think I was gonna win, why the hell would I be fighting?!

Roland La Starza was tough, but Ezzard Charles was the toughest man I ever fought. I learned what pain was all about when I fought him.

I'd be conceited if I said I could, but I'd be lying if I said I couldn't.