"This is the legend of Cassius Clay, The most beautiful fighter in the world today. He talks a great deal, and brags indeed-y, Of a muscular punch that's incredibly speedy. The fistic world was dull and weary, But with a champ like Liston, things had to be dreary. Then someone with color, someone with dash, Brought fight fans a-runnin' with cash. This brash young boxer is something to see. And the heavyweight championship is his destiny. This kid fights great. He's got speed and endurance. But if you sign to fight him, increase your insurance. This kid's got a left. This kid's got a right. If he hits you once, you're asleep for the night. And as you lie on the floor while the ref counts ten, you pray that you won't have to fight me again. For I am the man this poem is about, the next champ of the world, there isn't a doubt...."
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African AmericansMuslims from the United StatesSufisBoxers from the United StatesPeople from Louisville
Original Language: English
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Sources
In "Round 1: I am the Greatest", a spoken-word poem in his I Am the Greatest album (1963); audio and transcription on NPR (June 10, 2016)
https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Muhammad_Ali
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