Unearthed Video Shows Legend Muhammad Ali Awarding Michael Phelps a Huge Honor During Fight Night in 2009

The most successful and decorated Olympian of all time, Michael Phelps, is seen receiving an honorary award from boxing legend Muhammad Ali at Fight Night ceremonies in 2009.

Known as ‘The Best’ and usually cited as the finest heavyweight boxer of all time, American activist and professional boxer Muhammad Ali is recognized as one of the most important sports figures of the 20th century.

Michael Phelps recollects his interaction with the legend

The 28 Olympic medals victor and pro swimmer from the USA has the deepest respect for the senior athlete and even considers him to be the G.O.A.T in his sport.

A gleaming Phelps spoke to the crowd, reminiscing about his interaction with the boxer in 2004 when they were part of a panel together along with Sugar Ray Leonard and Mary Lou Retton. “I’ve had the privilege to meet Muhammad Ali a few times,” he stated. “I’ll never forget it. I have a picture of him throwing a punch at me and I remember him saying to me before I went to Athens ‘You’d better win all those medals.”

While receiving his award, he stated how elated and honored he was to be a part of Fight Night. “Having the greatest of all time say something like that to you truly is an honor,” he continued.

Furthermore, Phelps, in his Facebook Live interview, elucidates that the boxer was more than just an athlete. He said, “He was someone who stood up for what he believed in. Not only was he great for what he did inside the ring, but what he did outside the ring made him who he was.”

Ali continues to be an inspiration beyond his grave

The world gained a new hero on the day Muhammad Ali chose to box. His choice to defend himself and pick up a weapon as a young African-American lad seeking retribution for his stolen bicycle propelled him to become one of boxing’s greatest legends.

Aged 18, Ali weighed 100-8. He proceeded to win the gold medal at the 1960 Olympics after previously winning two Golden Gloves titles.

Read More: “Fall Down, Hit Their Head, Cry”: Michael Phelps’ Little Sons Once Taught Him a Golden Lesson About Life 

Due to his allegiance to The Nation Of Islam, Clay changed his name to Muhammad Ali and later his faith. Additionally, he would continue to battle for his cause, which had evolved into opposition to the Vietnam War. A 5-year prison term, a $10,000 fine, and a 3-year boxing suspension later, Ali never shied away from the media during his career. He was always willing to share his opinions with the public, regardless of how controversial they may be.

Ali was designated as a UN ambassador much later in his life. He promoted tolerance and peace and brought attention to the needs of children.

He was an inspiration because of his accomplishments in the ring, where he competed against everyone during the 1970s heavyweight heyday and became the first heavyweight world champion to win three titles. He was an inspiration because, during the time when young black people were under-represented in our society, he was brave to speak up.

Despite being unable to talk because of Parkinson’s disease, Ali could motivate others with a smile. Michael Phelps, an inspiration to many, has the utmost respect for him.

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