Holding is a strategy used for more than being hurt or tired. Fighters with shorter or longer reach can use it to smother the other fighter's offense. Also it can open up the body and head for punches AFTER the break (break caused by the fighters not the ref, because THAT is illegal).

Had Ricky broke those clinches and flurried then clinched again it would have been a FAAAAR easier fight for him. That's what he usually does anyways.

Holding is not a lack of anything...Ali held did he lack skill or confidence. Oh damn I forgot no one brings up anything bad about Ali, EVER, because he was sooooo great we are just in awe, he didn't even have to step in the ring to beat someone