“Ever since I first came here in 1963 to fight Henry Cooper, I have loved the people of England.”
January 17, 1942 – June 3, 2016
American
Professional Boxer, Activist, Olympic Gold Medalist, Heavyweight Champion
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Quote
“Ever since I first came here in 1963 to fight Henry Cooper, I have loved the people of England.”
Explanation
In this gracious and personal reflection, Muhammad Ali expresses his deep affection for the people of England, rooted in his first visit to the country in 1963 to fight British heavyweight Henry Cooper. That match, held at Wembley Stadium, was Ali’s first major international bout and a significant step in his rise to global fame. His fondness for the English people speaks to the warm reception and enduring respect he felt from fans and the public.
Though the fight itself was dramatic—Ali was famously knocked down by Cooper in the fourth round before ultimately winning—the event helped establish his reputation as a resilient and charismatic contender. Ali’s acknowledgment of his connection to England demonstrates his appreciation for the support he received abroad, well beyond the borders of the United States.
Today, this quote highlights how Ali’s appeal transcended nationality, culture, and even controversy. His sincerity, courage, and showmanship earned him admiration worldwide, and his words here serve as a reminder of the universal language of respect, gratitude, and human connection that he embodied throughout his life.
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