|
[이데일리 스타in 이석무 기자] Nico Ali Walsh (20), grandson of ‘legendary boxer’ Muhammad Ali, who passed away in 2016, debuted as a professional boxer and won the first round by TKO.
Ali Walsh defeated Jordan Weeks in the first round in 1:49 seconds in the fourth round of professional boxing held in Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA on the 14th (local time).
At the game, which was broadcast live across the United States through ESPN, an American sports channel, Ali Walsh drew attention by wearing a white trunk handed down from her grandfather. It was as if he had inherited his grandfather’s strong punch and stole the first down with a powerful right-hand hook. After a series of punches by Ali Walsh continued, the referee stopped the game.
The moment Ali Walsh’s victory was confirmed, the crowd created an atmosphere as if Ali had been revived. “Ali! Ali!” he shouted, rejoicing in the victory of the new Ali.
In fact, Ali Walsh never did boxing. It was because his grandfather’s great fame came as a burden. His family did not force or encourage him to box, the circumstances or circumstances naturally led him to boxing. The excellent athleticism he inherited from his grandfather also played a part.
“I couldn’t get away from my grandfather no matter what sport I played,” said Ali Walsh. “I know it’s very difficult to succeed in my grandfather’s footsteps, but I have to accept my fate,” he said.
Muhammad Ali made a name for himself as the greatest heavyweight boxer of the 20th century. He was a three-time world heavyweight champion and left behind numerous outstanding fights. In particular, as he said, ‘Fly like a butterfly and sting like a bee’, despite his large body weighing over 100 kg, he defeated his opponent with his brilliant footwork and sharp punching speed that reminded him of a lightweight athlete. He left a splendid record of 61 wins, 56 wins (37 KOs) and 5 losses.
Muhammad Ali didn’t just rise to fame as a boxer. He constantly fought against the absurdities of society. In particular, he has established himself as an icon of the era that goes beyond sports by fighting against racism and striving to keep his beliefs.
Muhammad Ali died five years ago at the age of 74 after battling Parkinson’s for 32 years. His daughter, Laila, was also a world champion in women’s professional boxing. Ali Walsh is the son of Rasheda, another daughter of Muhammad Ali.
Ali Walsh is a rookie who has just made his debut, but he already has the best staff. The promoter of this day’s professional debut was Bob Arum. Arum, who is now the promoter of Manny Pacquiao, was also the promoter of Muhammad Ali’s days as a player.
“Promoting Muhammad Ali’s grandson will be the last thing in my life,” said Arum, who is still working as a promoter at the age of 90 this year. If I knew that I was doing it, would I really believe it?” he said.
Ali Walsh’s trainer is Sugar Hill Steward. Steward is the current world heavyweight champion and trainer for the undefeated Tyson Fury.
.
