This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/21/2015
It's one of the largest and boldest Ali autographs we've encountered, a black magic marker masterpiece with a "Muhammad" that measures ten inches in length. It was signed during a particularly difficult time in the former Champ's career, a day after he was absolutely brutalized by Larry Holmes, landing fewer than ten punches while absorbing scores of sledgehammer blows from his former sparring partner before quitting after ten rounds. "He was the greatest fighter in the world," Holmes said at his postfight news conference. "He's one hell of an athlete, one hell of a man. Even trying to win a fourth title is one hell of an achievement. He had a two-year layoff and then tried to fight the baddest heavyweight in the world." Ali would make one more ill-advised return to the ring a year later to face Trevor Berbick before hanging up the gloves for good. The pillow case derives from the personal collection of Ali's bodyguard James Anderson and is accompanied by a photograph of Ali recovering from his beating in a hotel bed, one clad in yellow sheets and pillow cases, one of which is offered here. Letter of provenance from Anderson family. Accompanied by an auction style Letter of Authenticity from James Spence Authentication/JSA.