The broadcast was blacked out in the entire state of Louisiana and markets within 200 miles of the Superdome, which included Jackson, Mississippi, Mobile, Alabama, and Pensacola, Florida.

An estimated audience of 90 million viewers watched the main event in the United States, with 46.7% of TV sets in the nation tuned in—a record for the time.

[9][10][11] Ali regained the WBA heavyweight title and avenged his split decision loss to Spinks from seven months prior.

"We knew Muhammad Ali was going to retire", Arum said, "but as long as he delayed, I couldn't make definite plans."

However, in October 1980 Ali returned to face WBC Champion Larry Holmes but was stopped by TKO in the 10th round.