This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 6/30/2003.
Muhammad Ali's ability to fight his way back to the Heavyweight Title after being banished from the ring for nearly three years (1967-1970) is awe-inspiring. It took almost four years and a great deal of perserverence, but Ali reaffirmed his status as "The Greatest" when he regained the belt by knocking out George Foreman in the eighth round in Kinshasa on Oct. 30, 1974. Ali's first defense of the title came against Check Wepner in Cleveland, Ohio on March 24, 1975. With some of the quickness and strength of his youth diminished by this point in his career, Ali relied on his instincts and intelligence in the Wepner fight. He utilized every bit of his boxing smarts in the brutal fight, and walked away with a KO in the 15th round. Up and coming actor/writer Sylvester Stallone saw the fight and was instantly inspired to write the cinematic masterpiece, "Rocky". The Size 13 shoes seen here were worn by Ali in his epic battle with Wepner. They are white and complete with the original laces. The shoes were manufactured by Everlast and there is a logo in blue on the bottom of each shoe. Inside both shoes, "Ali" is written in bold, blue marker lettering. The shoes exhibit circular thunderbolt logos on the outer ankle area. They have a tapered back and show tremendous wear with heavy scuffing on the bottom and sides. Ali gave the shoes to Wali Muhammad, his longtime cornerman, following the Wepner fight. They have remained in his possession until now. Accompanying the shoes are COA's from Wali Muhammad and Craig Hamilton.