Soon After It’s Release, Muhammad Ali’s Daughter Hypes Up Father’s Former Opponent George Foreman’s Biopic

Published 04/29/2023, 9:15 AM EDT

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The highly anticipated boxing biopic, Big George Foreman directed by George Tillman Jr., hit theaters on April 28th. The movie chronicles the rise of the former heavyweight champion detailing his journey from poverty to the top of the opposing world. The movie, which only recently hit the theaters has garnered some acclaim from audiences. However, there is one praise that shines particularly bright.

Laila Ali, the daughter of the late Muhammad Ali, recently came out and endorsed the film. Although her father and Foreman were once two fierce rivals, she was not shy to promote the film. Moreover, her endorsement of the film adds an extra layer of significance with her also being a former boxing champion.

Laila Ali promotes Geroge Foreman’s biopic

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The former female middleweight champion took to Instagram and posted a picture in which she can be seen standing alongside ‘Big George’. Moreover, she complimented Foreman and also claimed to have watched the film twice and wished continued success for the movie. “Make sure you go checkout Big George Forman. It’s in theaters now! I saw it 2X’s already! Congrats@biggeorgeforeman and @daviskhris on an excellent film. Wishing you continues success,” she wrote.

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As the daughter of Muhammad Ali, Laila knew about her father and Foreman’s rivalry. However, by the time she was born, the two had already faced each other in the ring. Despite this, she not only appreciates the narrative as a spectator but also as someone connected to the significant moments depicted on screen.

A look into George Foreman and Muhammad Ali’s rivalry

In 1974, Foreman was the reigning Heavyweight Champion, known for his imposing size and devastating punching power. Ali, on the other hand, had been stripped of his titles due to his refusal to serve in the Vietnam War. Ali saw an opportunity to regain his status as the top heavyweight boxer by challenging Foreman. The two would face each other in the legendary ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ fight in 1974.

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Foreman was heavily favored to win the fight, as he had been undefeated and had knocked out his previous opponents with ease. However, Ali took on the challenge but was getting battered by the current champion. Despite this, in the eighth round, Ali saw an opening and unleashed a flurry of punches, ultimately knocking Foreman out and securing a stunning victory. This win made Ali the second boxer in history to regain the heavyweight championship after losing it. In the end, Foreman and Ali developed mutual respect and friendship in later years and the effects of it can be seen even now.

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What did you think about Laila Ali promoting Geroge Foreman’s biopic? Let us know in the comments below.

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Written by:

Sahil Sood

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Sahil Sood is a Boxing writer at EssentiallySports, who specializes in covering live events and core sports. Sahil holds a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Mass Communication and has authored over 1300 articles at EssentiallySports. His coverage of Sylvester Stallone's training with Earnie Shavers was widely praised for its depth and insight.
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Edited by:

Shibu Immanuel