Prince Naseem Hamed sees Muhammad Ali as the all-time greatest boxer, on par with another legend who matched his penchant for chasing career-defining challenges.
While known largely for his immeasurable impact outside the ring, Ali showcased a remarkable degree of fighting spirit and intelligence whenever he stepped through the ropes.
Not only that, but the American never shied away from a formidable challenge, including those against the likes of George Foreman, Joe Frazier and Ken Norton.
Against ‘Big George’, in fact, Ali was considered a sizable underdog, only to score an eighth-round stoppage and claim the WBC world heavyweight title.
It is partly for this reason that many believe ‘The Greatest’ lived up to his moniker, rivalling Sugar Ray Robinson as the most celebrated fighter in history.
The former multi-time world welterweight and middleweight champion is perhaps best known for his compelling rivalry with Jake LaMotta, winning five of their six encounters.
Robinson also defeated nine other boxers who later became Hall of Famers, including Randolph Turpin, who pulled off an almighty upset in 1951 before losing their immediate rematch.
Eventually retiring with an extraordinary record of 174-19-6 (109), ‘Sugar Ray’ is considered by featherweight legend Hamed – who shared his thoughts with Radio Rahim – as the joint-Greatest of All Time.
“It’s either Sugar Ray Robinson or Muhammad Ali. They’re just set in stone – that will never change.
“In my eyes, though, the [most intelligent] person to ever come into the boxing game is Floyd ‘Money’ Mayweather.”
While singing the praises of Ali and Robinson, ‘Naz’ credits Mayweather more for his financial earnings, rather than putting him in the ‘GOAT’ conversation.
