1971 Muhammad Ali Training Worn Robe for Joe Frazier I Bout....

Description

1971 Muhammad Ali Training Worn Robe for Joe Frazier I Bout. Perhaps the most anticipated prize fight in boxing history, the March 8, 1971 meeting of undefeated Heavyweights Frazier and Ali was the first of the historic trilogy, and likewise Ali's first professional defeat. The presented sweat-stained terrycloth robe was a companion of The Greatest in the weeks and days prior to his first attempt to reclaim the Championship that had been unjustly stripped away from him by the United States government.

An included letter of examination from leading boxing collectibles expert Craig Hamilton reads, in part:

"The robe is white terrycloth and approximately knee length. There is no hood. It has the original white sash. There is a manufacturer's tag in the collar which reads, "Everlast, Made in USA." There are two pockets at the front of the waist. On the reverse in black, block letters are sewn the words, "Muhammad Ali." The "Muhammad" forms an arc over the "Ali." The robe shows considerable wear and is well soiled and has several small tears. The robe was obtained by a hotel employee from Muhammad Ali while he was in New York City for his March 8, 1971 fight with Joe Frazier."

Though Ali would suffer his first professional defeat in the contest, "The Fight of the Century" lived up to its billing and remains one of the most important sports events in Big Apple history. LOA from Craig Hamilton. LOA from Heritage Auctions.

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