The World Boxing Council (WBC) heavyweight title won by legendary boxer Muhammad Ali 48 years ago was sold on July 25, 2022 for Ksh734,184,000 ($6.18 million) in an auction held in the United States.
Ali, who is considered by many as one of the greatest boxers of all time, won the belt in 1974 when he defeated George Foreman in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), formerly Zaire.
Prior to the famous fight which was known as “Rumble in the Jungle” AIi’s competitor was unbeaten. Foreman was the holder of the WBC, Ring Magazine and WBA belts.
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As could have been expected, most people believed Foreman would destroy his American compatriot based on the impressive form he was in. However, the fight had an opposite outcome.
Ali defeated Foreman in the 8th round after using the “rope-a-dope” technique.
The prestigious belt was bought by Jim Irsay, the owner of National Football League (NFL) side Indianapolis colts.
Irsay, who broke the news on social media expressed his delight after buying the coveted belt.
“Muhammad Ali’s championship belt from 1974 ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ when he employed his rope-a-dope and defeated George Foreman—-just added to @IrsayCollection,”
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“Just in time for the Aug. 2 show at Chicago’s Navy Pier (and Sept. 9 at Indy). Proud to be the steward!🙏,” read his Twitter statement.
The spokesperson of Heritage Auctions, a multinational firm based in Dallas, United States which sold the belt stated that it is the most vital boxing award ever sold.
"Here we present the foremost symbol of that glorious achievement, the WBC Heavyweight Championship belt earned for Muhammad Ali’s victory over George Foreman in the fabled “Rumble in the Jungle,
"The historical significance of the piece, arguably the most important boxing award ever made available at public auction, is quite simply immeasurable," he was quoted by The Indian Express.
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