“He Took It All in Stride”: While Naming Him the GOAT, Daughter Details How Muhammad Ali Dealt With “Blatant” Racism During His Pro Career (Exclusive)

Published 01/07/2024, 1:44 PM EST

The legend of Muhammad Ali is not built only on his boxing acumen and skills. He inspired, captivated, and brought the masses together for his social crusade, even when it came at the cost of his career. Much of this zeal was a result of his experience with racism.

In the latest EssentiallySports FanCast hosted by Kenny Ducey, Muhammad Ali’s daughter Rasheda Ali weighed in on the former Heavyweight Champion’s experiences with racism, not just as an African American but also as a Muslim. Her remarks demand attention, as they unveil a lesser-known aspect of his life through the perspective of his daughter.

Rasheda Ali recounts Muhammad Ali’s unshakeable faith

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In the Exclusive Interview with EssentiallySports, Rasheda Ali revealed that at the time of her father’s rise to fame, he was subjected to “blatant” racism. But she suggested that it wasn’t new to him as he had grown up in a racist and oppressive environment. What also assisted Ali in not succumbing to incessant criticism for his conversion was his faith in god. He stood for what he deemed was right, and that trait inspired the masses around the globe.

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“As an African American in America at its peak in racism, he dealt with—he is from the South, so of course he had racism, blatant racism, thrown at him at his face. Faith was what my dad used to be able to overcome all those challenges. Because he was challenged more than anyone that I know,” Rasheda said. More often than not, his comments raised eyebrows. This also, to an extent, made him the object of hatred.

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During the EssentiallySports Exclusive, Rasheda Ali stated that his conviction made him more than just a boxer, more than an athlete. It made him an icon and a role model. “For him to take those challenges head-on, holding on to his faith and conviction in his religion, that’s what in my opinion made my dad the GOAT. Because, he, in the face of all of this hate and rampant racism against his people and his religion, he took it all in the stride he held on to his faith, he didn’t let it change him, and again, he moved on inspiring others to do the same,” she added.

Indeed, Ali was a unique individual and a staunch advocate for his principles. The relevance of his opinions serves as a testament to the enduring impact he has had on both the sport and the culture. Like his daughter, do you also see Ali as more than a heavyweight champion? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions with us in the comments below.

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“Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion,” this is precisely the motto of my life and it was said by none other than the legend that inspires me the most - Muhammad Ali. I am a boxing author at EssentiallySports.

Edited by:

Gokul Pillai

“He Took It All in Stride”: While Naming Him the GOAT, Daughter Details How Muhammad Ali Dealt With “Blatant” Racism During His Pro Career (Exclusive)

Rasheda Ali recounts Muhammad Ali’s unshakeable faith

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