Muhammad Ali aka Cassius Clay the boxing legend is respected by the whole world as the greatest fighter of all time. Ali was nicknamed as Black Superman for his fighting supremacy in the boxing ring and good deeds he did towards people all around the world.
Channa Bandara
Wijekoon
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‘Ali’ a biography on Muhammad Ali is the newest book authoured by Channa Bandara Wijekoon.
Written in a very readable style in Sinhala the book ‘Ali’ makes emphasis on Muhammad Ali’s life as an American-African boxer, his philosophy, artistic abilities and unusual fighting style. The book is rich with 35 rare pictures associated with Ali’s life.
The book will bring inspiration to young generation who lack heroes as their role-models in current times. Ali was a true hero and a heart throb of millions of people in this world who introduced the entertainment and showbiz aspect to martial arts.
With his controversial statements prior to heavyweight bouts Ali provoked his opponents. This he did to entertain his fans. His reflexes were so quick thus it was said; he moved like a butterfly and stung like bee.
Rumble in the Jungle, Ali’s heavyweight bout with George Foreman is considered the greatest fight in his boxing life. The fight took place in Kinshasa Africa ruled then by the dictator Mobutu Sese Seco.
‘When We Were Kings’ a documentary film made in Hollywood based on Rumble in the Jungle won many Academy awards.
Refusal to fight in the Vietnam War cost Ali his heavyweight boxing title and a solid three years of his boxing life. He said, “I ain’t got no quarrel with the Viet-Cong”, in a very American–African style. Ali made a comeback in 1970.
Youngsters by reading Ali could derive vital clues to mould their lives to become sensible individuals who contribute towards people, planet and the economy. Ali is published by, Nugegoda Sarasavi Publishers.
Authour of Ali, Channa Bandara Wijekoon is a journalist of the Daily News.