I think that Ali did that, although I can see your point.

He had unbelievable hand speed. In the video of his old fights, it seems as if his opponent's head would snap back before you even knew that Ali was throwing a punch. Ali could also move his own head back just enough to make his opponent miss. Must have been frustrating to fight him, especially with him running his mouth.

And the rope-a-dope thing against Foreman was pure genius and bravery. The last round of that fight is the best thing I have ever seen in a boxing ring.

Ali is definitely on the short list of the greatest American athletes. (Babe Ruth being the greatest, IMHO.)