Evan CarmichaelSpeaker / Author / Introvert

MUHAMMAD ALI: The legend of Cassius Clay - Zen Pencils

15 Apr 2015 · 1 min

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1:28

The piece is a spoken‑word poem that dramatizes Cassius Clay’s (later Muhammad Ali) self‑aggrandizing confidence before his 1964 heavyweight title bout. The narrator, speaking as Clay, boasts about his speed, power, and destiny, predicting he will become world champion in 1964 and proclaiming himself "the greatest." The poem references the then‑champion Liston, highlights Clay’s youthful vigor, and uses vivid boxing imagery to convey his bravado. The work ends with a clear attribution to Cassius Clay, framing the poem as his own words.

Chapters

This is the legend of Cassius Clay, the most beautiful fighter in the world today. He talks a great deal and brags indeed of a muscular punch that's incredibly speedy. The fistic world was dull and weary. With a champ like Liston, things had to be dreary. Then someone of color Someone with dash brought fight fans a-running with cash. This brash young boxer is something to see, and the heavyweight championship is his destiny. This kid fights great, he's got speed and endurance, but if you sign to fight him, increase your insurance. When I say 3, they go in the third, so don't bet against me. I'm a man of my word. This kid's got a left, this kid's got a right. If he hits you once, you're asleep for the night. And as you lie on the floor while the ref counts 10, you pray that you won't have to fight me again. This I predict, and I know the score. I'll be champ of the world in '64. Yes, I'm the man this poem is about. I'll be champ of the world There isn't a doubt. I am the greatest!
By Cassius Clay.