Ali's career was marked by an unwavering confidence that became his trademark. He started his professional journey with an impressive 31-fight unbeaten streak. Throughout his career, he faced and overcame some of the toughest opponents in boxing history.
Joe Frazier handed Ali his first professional loss in a unanimous decision. But Ali didn't let that setback define him. He came back to win their trilogy, cementing his place in boxing lore. He also emerged victorious in his trilogy with Ken Norton and avenged his loss to Leon Spinks in an immediate rematch in 1978.
As Ali's career was winding down in the early 1980s, a new heavyweight was making waves across the pond. Frank Bruno turned pro just a year after Ali's retirement and quickly made a name for himself with 21 straight wins to kick off his career.
Bruno's path to glory wasn't without its bumps. He suffered setbacks against James 'Bonecrusher' Smith and Tim Witherspoon in his early world title attempts. He also came up short twice against Mike Tyson and once against Lennox Lewis. But Bruno's persistence paid off when he finally clinched the WBC Heavyweight World Title, beating Oliver McCall at Wembley Stadium.
It was Bruno's skills and tenacity that caught Ali's eye. In a heartfelt letter to the British champion, Ali penned:
"Dear Frank,
When I watch you fight I am happy that I didn't come along. From what I see, you could have given me a whole lot of trouble. I know you are a good man and have a nice personality, and you are not bad looking either. If we were matched for a title bout, it would be awful hard for me to make myself angry enough to fight you.
So Frank, I am glad we never fought and I am glad we will never have to fight… I like you too much!
For I am no fool I've been to school. You're too cool. You're not dumb enough to stay on the stool and let me rule.
In all seriousness, I am really sorry I can't be there with you tonight, but know that you are in my thoughts and in my prayers. Stay strong. God bless you and good luck!
Muhammad Ali."
This admission from Ali, a man famous for his self-assurance and ability to overcome almost any opponent, speaks volumes about Bruno's capabilities in the ring.
The respect was mutual. Bruno referred to Ali as an "inspiration, mentor, friend and the greatest of all time," highlighting the impact Ali had both inside and outside the boxing world.
While we'll never know how a bout between these two heavyweight greats might have played out, Ali's words serve as a testament to Bruno's skill and character, adding another layer to both of their storied legacies in the sport of boxing.