Ali, a boxing legend and three-time heavyweight champion, made his mark with iconic fights like the Rumble in the Jungle and Thrilla in Manila. He's recognized as one of the most significant sports stars ever, known for his boxing skills and activism work.
When asked about the greatest boxer, Ali didn't hesitate. In a video clip, he said, "I would say Jack Johnson." Johnson, the first black world heavyweight champion, was an important and influential figure who transcended the sport.
Ali also named other top boxers like Jack Dempsey, Sugar Ray Robinson, and Joe Louis. Dempsey, an iconic heavyweight, was world champion from 1999 to 1926 and set numerous attendance records. Robinson, a welterweight and middleweight world champion, won 174 out of 201 contests. Louis held the world heavyweight title from 1937 to 1949 and still holds the record for 25 consecutive title defenses.
When it came to his own ranking, Ali showed humility. "You can rank me where you want to," he said. This humble attitude extended beyond just rankings. Ali also named a fighter from a different era who he believed would have defeated him in his prime, further showing his modest nature despite his legendary status.
Ali's recognition of Johnson and other greats demonstrates his respect for boxing history and his ability to appreciate the skills of those who came before him. It's a testament to Ali's character that even as 'The Greatest', he could acknowledge the greatness in others.