Muhammad Ali Postcard

Description

Muhammad Ali Postcard

Gouache and linoprint on paper.
Format A6, 250g/m2.
Open edition, signed and numbered.
Carved and printed by hand with love and respect.

Muhammad Ali, originally named Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr., was born on January 17, 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky. He rose to prominence as an amateur boxer, winning a gold medal in the light heavyweight division at the 1960 Rome Olympics. Shortly after, he turned professional and quickly became known for his unconventional fighting style, characterized by his lightning-fast footwork and powerful punches.

Ali captured the world heavyweight title for the first time on February 25, 1964, by defeating Sonny Liston in a major upset. Following this victory, he announced his conversion to Islam and changed his name to Muhammad Ali, rejecting his “slave name” and joining the Nation of Islam under the mentorship of Malcolm X.

Ali’s career was marked by several high-profile bouts, including his trilogies with Joe Frazier, most notably the “Fight of the Century” in 1971 and the “Thrilla in Manila” in 1975, as well as his legendary “Rumble in the Jungle” fight against George Foreman in 1974, where he reclaimed the heavyweight title using his famous “rope-a-dope” strategy.

Outside the ring, Ali was an outspoken advocate for civil rights and social justice. In 1967, he was stripped of his titles and banned from boxing for refusing to be drafted into the U.S. military during the Vietnam War, citing his religious beliefs and opposition to the conflict. This stance earned him both widespread criticism and admiration.

After a four-year hiatus, Ali returned to boxing and continued to compete at the highest level, eventually winning the heavyweight title three times, a feat unprecedented at the time. He retired from boxing in 1981 with a record of 56 wins, 5 losses, and 37 knockouts.

Ali was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1984, a condition believed to be related to his boxing career. Despite his illness, he remained active in humanitarian efforts, promoting peace and aiding various charitable causes. He received numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005.

Muhammad Ali passed away on June 3, 2016, at the age of 74. His life and legacy continue to inspire millions around the world, embodying principles of resilience, courage, and advocacy for equality and justice.