“We All Hung Out”: Arnold Schwarzenegger and Muhammad Ali Had an Iconic Relationship in 70s

Arnold Schwarzenegger and Muhammad Ali are undoubtedly legends in their respective fields—bodybuilding and boxing respectively. Besides achieving excellence, they played an instrumental role in popularising the sports. The latter took his last breath in 2016 after a tough battle with Parkinson’s disease. Attending the funeral in Kentucky, The Terminator actor became nostalgic and recalled fond memories with his idol, Ali.

The Austrian Oak shared an interesting account of how he crossed paths with Ali in the 70s. In addition, he explained what inspires him the most about Ali, The Greatest.

Arnold Schwarzenegger and Muhammad Ali shared a similar vision

Arnold Schwarzenegger and Muhammad Ali spent a lot of time together during the Pumping Iron days. According to Yahoo entertainment, the former bodybuilding champion paid honor to the boxing legend at his funeral, remembering the impact he made on people. Besides, he revealed the unknown side of the legends’ relationship.

The 70s witnessed Schwarzenegger and Ali engaging in serious promotional activities. While Ali was promoting his fights, Schwarzenegger was busy promoting his film Pumping Iron and bodybuilding as a sports discipline. “So we all hung out in the same TV studios,” he said.

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The 7x Mr. Olympia and 3x lineal heavyweight champion toured the length and breadth of the country in their promotional efforts. Reminiscing about their shared histories of living lives larger than themselves, Schwarzenegger rekindled the fact that they were great friends and had immense respect for each other for all that they have accomplished. While they had a “great time and great laugh,” they also pursued philanthropic activities together. “I think he was fantastic,” Schwarzenegger hailed Ali.

Schwarzenegger takes inspiration from Ali

The Governator pointed out that Ali’s journey through life has numerous stories of inspiration. “He was an idol of mine,” Schwarzenegger said. Explaining why Ali is one of the five people he always looked up to for motivation, he brought to life Ali’s generosity and phenomenal skills once again.

Schwarzenegger has praised Ali on several occasions for his charitable nature and steadfast spirit. It is not surprising that the former governor has a great deal of respect for boxing great for he traveled a path similar to Ali’s filled with hard work, perseverance, and challenges. What do you think? Leave a comment.

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