In 1979, just a few years after HBO came on the air, it took a chance on a young comedian, giving him his first TV Special. That was Billy Crystal.
Slipping out of his "Soap" role Billy demonstrates his talents for improvisation and bittersweet comedy sketches, among the more incredible his 9 minute brilliant "Fifteen Rounds" routine on the 18 year career of Muhammad Ali, in and out of the ring. Billy Crystal takes on the voices of both Ali and Howard Cosell.
At the conclusion of his routine Billy is surprised by Muhammad himself who trades quips with Crystal for an additional five minutes. They reverse roles, Muhammad impersonating Howard Cosell and Billy impersonating Muhammad Ali.