Muhammad Ali's Fight Worn Boots from the "Thrilla in Manila"
Owner
Muhammad Ali
(American, 1942 - 2016)
Maker
Everlast
(American, founded 1910)
Date1975
ClassificationsPop Culture
DimensionsBoot (Single): 11 1/2 x 6 1/8 x 10 1/2 in. (29.2 x 15.6 x 26.7 cm)
DescriptionMuhammad Ali's fight worn boots from the "Thrilla in Manila." The boots are white leather with with laces and the red and blue circular Everlast logo above the ankle. On the inside of the upper tongue is written in blue felt pen, "Mo Speed" above the white Everlast makers label.The 1975 fight was the third match between Ali and Joe Frazier. The first matchup between these two heavyweights was called "The Fight of the Century." The rematch was a less satisfying split decision. This match was set to finally settle the score, and it was by all accounts a brutal fight that was contested at the Araneta Coliseum where the reported temperature was 107 degrees with essentially no air conditioning. The power dynamic shifted throughout the fight with Ali seeming to get a second wind after the middle rounds and Ali landed a combination in round thirteen that sent his mouthpiece flying into the crowd. After enduring another round of punishment Frazier's trainer called an end to the fight. Many consider this to be the most significant bout in the history of the heavyweight division. The shoes were held by Ali's assistant Drew "Bundini" Brown, who wrote in blue marker "Mo Speed" a good luck mantra. Additional notations also likely in Brown's hand read, "Ali-Frazier, Oct 1, 1975." The shoes were initially sold after Brown's death and have been photo matched to the fight and are accompanied by letters from trainer Wali Muhammad, and Craig Hamilton.
Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Clay, (1942-2016) was considered one of the most important sports figures of the 20th century and is arguably the greatest heavyweight boxer of all time.
In the ring, Ali often sought the spotlight with high profile matches against top opponents such as George Foreman, Sonny Liston, and Joe Frazier. He is the only three-time lineal heavyweight champion with a 56-5 professional boxing record.
Outside the ring, Ali’s beliefs as a conscientious objector to the Vietnam War saw him convicted of draft evasion. His anti-war stance earned him respect in the counterculture movement of the 1960s. His prominent status in the African American community also made him a leading figure in the civil rights movement.
Ali’s legacy transcends sports. His thoughts on social and personal responsibility make him one of the most influential Americans in modern history.
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