Frank Bruno, the beloved British heavyweight boxer, didn't hesitate to name Muhammad Ali as the greatest heavyweight of all time. Bruno, known for his powerful punches and never-give-up attitude, made this quick decision despite having fought in an era with other boxing greats.
Bruno's career was impressive in its own right. He won 40 out of 45 fights, with 38 of those victories coming by knockout. He faced off against boxing legends like Mike Tyson and Lennox Lewis. After three unsuccessful attempts, Bruno finally clinched the world title in his fourth try, defeating Michael Moorer at Wembley Stadium.
But when it came to naming the best, Bruno looked beyond his contemporaries. He chose Ali, born Cassius Clay Jr., who had revolutionized heavyweight boxing with his dazzling speed and unorthodox technique.
Ali's career was filled with memorable moments. In 1964, he shocked the world by beating Sonny Liston for his first world title. He went on to regain the heavyweight championship twice more, finishing his career with 56 wins from 61 fights before retiring in 1981.
"Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. His hands can't hit what his eyes can't see. Now you see me, now you don't. George thinks he will, but I know he won't."
Ali's impact went far beyond the boxing ring. He stood up against the Vietnam War, refusing to be drafted. This decision led to him being stripped of his title and facing exile from boxing. But Ali didn't back down, and he eventually won his case in the Supreme Court.
Ali was more than just a boxer. He was a showman who knew how to promote himself. He'd predict fight outcomes in witty poems and use psychological warfare against his opponents. His fights became cultural events that captivated audiences worldwide.
Even after retiring, Ali remained a sporting icon. In a touching moment, he lit the Olympic torch at the 1996 Games, showcasing his enduring impact on the world of sports.
Ali passed away in 2016 after a long battle with Parkinson's disease. But his legacy as "The Greatest" lives on, as evidenced by Bruno's quick and confident answer.
Bruno's choice of Ali as the greatest heavyweight ever speaks volumes. It shows that true greatness in boxing isn't just about wins and losses, but about the impact a fighter has both inside and outside the ring.
