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Autograph written by Cassius Clay, 1963. Creator: Muhammad Ali
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Autograph written by Cassius Clay, 1963. Creator: Muhammad Ali
This note was written in the summer of 1963, months before the World Heavyweight Championship fight between African-American boxers Clay (later Muhammad Ali) and Sonny Liston in February 1964. The Sports Illustrated reporter Frank Deford was on the train with Clay, headed back to New York, when he asked for an autograph for his younger brother Gill. Clay wrote the note on a piece of paper from Defords reporters notepad. Though the fight with Liston was months away, Deford noted that " [Clay] had recently begun to predict victory for himself." He added that " So far as I know, though, this was the first written declaration of the prediction which would so shock the sports world."
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Media ID 22176253
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Ali Muhammad Autograph Autographs Black History Boxing Cassius Clay Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr Clay Cassius Cultural Heritage Document Graphite On Paper Heritage Muhammad Ali Nmaahc Signature World Heavyweight Championship Afro American Sonny Liston
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases an autograph written by the legendary Cassius Clay, who later became known as Muhammad Ali. The year was 1963, a few months before the historic World Heavyweight Championship fight between African-American boxers Clay and Sonny Liston in February 1964. The autograph was requested by Sports Illustrated reporter Frank Deford during a train ride back to New York. Clay graciously penned his signature on a piece of paper from Deford's reporters notepad, creating this remarkable artifact. At that time, he had already begun predicting victory for himself, which would ultimately shock the sports world. This note serves as the first written declaration of his bold prediction. The significance of this autograph lies not only in its connection to one of boxing's most iconic figures but also in its representation of African-American history and cultural heritage. It symbolizes Clay's journey towards becoming Muhammad Ali, an influential figure who transcended sports and fought for social justice. Preserved within the National Museum of African American History and Culture at the Smithsonian Institution, this graphite-on-paper document is a testament to Ali's impact on both sport and society. Its presence in such an esteemed educational institution allows visitors to delve into Ali's legacy while appreciating his extraordinary handwriting skills. As we gaze upon this photograph print today, we are reminded of Ali's indomitable spirit inside and outside the ring—a true champion whose words continue to resonate across generations.
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