Gil Clancy observed Foreman adopting unfamiliar techniques, carrying his hands unnaturally high and employing tactics mismatched to his strengths. After six rounds, Clancy intervened, urging Foreman to refocus on securing a knockout.
The tactical shift proved effective. In the seventh round, Foreman delivered a devastating left hook that left Young stunned. Though Young remained standing, he acknowledged Foreman’s dominance, suggesting a single strike could have ended the fight.
Despite this, Young survived through clinching and movement. The relentless heat of San Juan, however, began to undermine Foreman’s energy as he wasted effort inside the ring, wrestling during clinches and failing to capitalize on his advantage.
Young re-established his defensive posture, landing jabs and counters while Foreman grew progressively weary. The turning point came in the 12th round, where Young landed a right hand that dropped Foreman, securing a decisive unanimous decision.