Muhammad Ali: The Greatest of All Time
Table of Contents
Introduction
As a lifelong boxing fan, I've watched countless fighters, but none have ever captured my imagination the way Muhammad Ali has. He wasn't just a champion in the ring, he was the champion — a man whose style, charisma, and courage went far beyond boxing. To me, Ali's unique approach to fighting is one of my favourite styles of all time, and it's why I consider him the greatest boxer to ever live.
Ali's Unique Style
What made Ali special wasn't just that he won fights, but how he did it. Heavyweights are usually known for raw power and slow, grinding battles. Ali broke that mould completely.
He moved with a rhythm and grace that made him look untouchable. The way he would circle an opponent, hands low, dancing on his toes, almost daring them to try and catch him — it was electrifying.
His famous phrase "Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee" wasn't just poetry, it was exactly what you saw when he fought.
Ali's ability to throw punches with speed and accuracy, while gliding around the ring, is the kind of style I admire most. It's the perfect mix of art and aggression.
Fights That Defined a Legend
When I think of Ali's career, a few fights stand out as defining moments:
Liston (1964): The Birth of a Legend
At just 22, he shocked the world by dismantling Sonny Liston. That was the night he declared himself "The Greatest" — and he backed it up.
Frazier Trilogy: Pure Boxing Drama
The rivalry with Joe Frazier was brutal, but it produced some of the greatest fights ever seen. The "Thrilla in Manila" in 1975 is still, in my opinion, one of the most incredible battles in boxing history.
Foreman (1974): The Rope-a-Dope Masterclass
The "Rumble in the Jungle." Ali used the rope-a-dope strategy to tire out George Foreman before finishing him in style. It was genius, and it showed just how clever a fighter he really was.
More Than a Boxer
Ali's impact wasn't limited to boxing. As a fan, what I admire just as much as his style is his courage outside the ring.
When he refused the draft during the Vietnam War, he risked everything — his titles, his career, even his freedom — because he stood by his beliefs. He lost three years of his prime but gained something far greater: respect as a man who wouldn't compromise his principles.
That side of Ali inspires me as much as his boxing. He showed that being a champion means more than winning fights.
Later Years and Legacy
Even after boxing, Ali continued to influence the world. Despite Parkinson's disease, he remained a public figure, advocating for peace and charity work. I'll never forget watching him light the Olympic flame in 1996 — it was emotional, powerful, and reminded the world just how much he meant to people.
Why Ali Will Always Be My Favourite
For me, Ali represents everything I love about boxing: skill, confidence, bravery, and heart. His style is the one I admire most — fast, fluid, unpredictable, and beautiful to watch.
Ali wasn't just a heavyweight, he was The Greatest. Every time I go back and watch his fights, I'm reminded why he'll always be my favourite boxer and one of the most important figures in the sport's history.
About the Author
Damien Pearl
Boxing coach and Owner at Boxcross Gym, Wisbech. Damien has over a decade of experience in fitness and combat sports, running his own 24-hour boxing and fitness facility. Passionate about helping beginners and experienced athletes alike, he shares practical reviews and training insights for boxers at all levels.