Abu Dhabi: Lonnie Ali has expressed her pride to Gulf News that the Muhammad Ali Centre stands as a fitting tribute to her husband’s illustrious life and legacy — including his famous ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ defeat of George Foreman 40 years ago on Thursday.
The Centre is a six-storey museum and cultural venue, which is based in three-time heavyweight champion of the world Ali’s hometown of Louisville, Kentucky, which was opened in November 2005 at a cost of $80 million (Dh293.8 million).
Visitors can immerse themselves in Ali’s legendary life from birth to the present, via memorabilia, videos of his famous wins and pre and post-fight interviews — and drawings and paintings.
There is even a mock boxing ring based on Ali’s Deer Lake Training Camp in Pennsylvania.
Lonnie Ali told Gulf News in an exclusive interview: “Preserving his legacy is key to the Centre’s mission, but that mission also includes everything that goes along with his legacy. Muhammad is an exceptional human being, who instinctively became a role model, an inspiration and a catalyst for individual self-transformation.
“His life is, and will continue to be, a perfect blueprint for social justice, overcoming obstacles, belief in one self, how to treat and respect your neighbour, handling adversity, dedication to your goals — and the list goes on and on.”
She added: “Ali Centre’s mission and programming are built upon six core principles that helped shape and guide Muhammad’s life. These are: Conviction, Confidence, Dedication, Respect, Giving and Spirituality. It’s important to Muhammad and me that future generations know him not only for his achievements in the boxing ring, but also know him as an activist for social justice, a global humanitarian and an emissary of peace.”
Visit www.alicenter.org for more information.
