Yeah in regards to the frantic feel to it... I think the AI is simply tuned into 3 round fights at the minute.
Once your fighting 12 rounders, I think you'll see are much more sophisticated AI.

I mean there are things like the 'Regional Anaerobic Fatigue' (or separate stamina gauges for separate parts of the body) that have been introduced, that can't really come into play over the course of three rounds.

Also, the fighters have separate ratings for each and every individual punch, including body punches, so you have to kinds rehash your repertoire to accommodate.

Mark, how often are you using the 'Punch Modifier Button'?
I hardly ever used Haymakers on any version of Fight Night but I have to be honest, they are very necessary if you want to score Knock Downs. Just look at the post fight analysis and see how many punches your opponent is putting some steak on. When you fight Ali, he pretty much loads up every time he plans his feet. So you have to work towards that kind of ethos.

Oh an yes, Ali is a fucking beast!