Muhammad Ali Honored with US Postage Stamp as Grandson Scores MMA KO

Key facts

• US Postal Service unveiled a new Muhammad Ali stamp in his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky.
• Ali's grandson Biaggio Ali Walsh scored a first-round MMA knockout in less than a minute to remain undefeated in the PFL.
• The LA home where Ali lived during the height of his career is up for auction, with bidding closing on May 15.
• Joe Bugner, a heavyweight who fought both Ali and Joe Frazier, died at age 75.
• George Foreman, who lost his title to Ali in the Rumble in the Jungle, died after a depression that ended when he was born again.
• Ali once joked he should be on a postage stamp because 'that’s the only way I’ll ever get licked.'

A Stamp of Approval in Louisville

The United States Postal Service has unveiled a new postage stamp honoring Muhammad Ali, the three-time world heavyweight champion and cultural icon, in his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. The stamp, which features a portrait of Ali, was released as part of a series celebrating influential Americans. Ali's family expressed their excitement over the honor, which comes decades after the boxer famously joked that he should be immortalized on a stamp because 'that’s the only way I’ll ever get licked.' The quip, made during his lifetime, now carries a poignant resonance as the nation pays tribute to 'The Greatest.'

The Grandson's Quick Work in the Cage

Biaggio Ali Walsh, Muhammad Ali's grandson, continued his undefeated streak in the Professional Fighters League (PFL) with a devastating knockout in less than a minute. The victory, which came in the first round, showcased the same explosive power that made his grandfather a legend in the ring. Walsh, who fights in the featherweight division, has drawn comparisons to Ali for his speed and striking ability. The young fighter remains undefeated, building a name for himself in mixed martial arts while carrying the weight of one of sports' most famous surnames.

Auction of Ali's Los Angeles Home

The elegant Hancock Park mansion where Muhammad Ali lived during the height of his boxing career has been put up for auction, with the sale set to close on May 15. The property, which Ali called home for approximately five years in the 1960s and 1970s, is expected to attract significant interest from collectors and fans. The residence, located in one of Los Angeles's most prestigious neighborhoods, served as a backdrop for Ali's life during his most famous fights, including his battles with Joe Frazier and George Foreman. The auction offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of boxing history.

Remembering Joe Bugner and George Foreman

Joe Bugner, the heavyweight who twice went the distance with Muhammad Ali and also fought Joe Frazier, has died at the age of 75. Bugner, who was born in Hungary but fought under the British flag, was known for his durability and resilience in the ring. George Foreman, who lost his world heavyweight title to Ali in the iconic 'Rumble in the Jungle' in 1974, later sank into a depression that ended only after he was born again. Foreman, who went on to become a beloved pitchman and entrepreneur, died recently, leaving behind a legacy that transcended boxing.

The Thrilla in Manila Endures

Fifty years after the legendary 'Thrilla in Manila' fight between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, the bout continues to captivate boxing fans. The fight, which took place in the Philippines in 1975, is widely regarded as one of the greatest in the sport's history, with Ali emerging victorious after Frazier's corner stopped the fight. Ali's grandson Biaggio Ali Walsh has been tapped to draw on that legacy for a potential fight card dubbed 'Thrilla in Manila 2,' though details remain unconfirmed. The enduring appeal of the original fight underscores Ali's lasting impact on the sport and popular culture.

A Legacy Beyond the Ring

Muhammad Ali's influence extended far beyond boxing, as he became a symbol of resistance, civil rights, and global humanitarianism. The new postage stamp is just the latest recognition of his status as a 'cultural force,' as described by the US Postal Service. From his Olympic gold medal in 1960 to his battles in the ring and his activism outside it, Ali's life story continues to inspire new generations. The auction of his home, the success of his grandson, and the tributes from fellow fighters all serve as reminders that 'The Greatest' remains an enduring figure in the American and global consciousness.

The bottom line

• The US Postal Service has issued a new Muhammad Ali stamp, fulfilling the boxer's own wish to be on a stamp.
• Biaggio Ali Walsh, Muhammad Ali's grandson, remains undefeated in the PFL with a first-round knockout.
• Ali's former Los Angeles home is up for auction, closing on May 15.
• Joe Bugner, who fought Ali and Frazier, has died at 75.
• George Foreman, who lost to Ali in the Rumble in the Jungle, died after a depression that ended with his religious conversion.
• The 'Thrilla in Manila' remains a landmark fight 50 years on, with Ali's legacy continuing through his family and commemorations.