Muhammed Ali’s grandson triumphs in first professional fight
By Saheed Afolabi
Nico Ali Walsh paid tribute to his grandfather, Muhammad Ali, as he won his debut professional bout wearing a pair of shorts he had given him.
The 21-year-old boxer made easy work of the fight, knocking down Jordan Weeks after 70 seconds.
The middleweight fight in Catoosa, Oklahoma, on Saturday night was eventually stopped before the end of the first round.
“It’s just an emotional journey, this whole ride,” Ali Walsh said.
“This lived up completely to my expectations.
“Obviously, my grandfather, I’ve been thinking about him so much. I miss him.”
Muhammad Ali won boxing’s world heavyweight title on three occasions and his legendary status across sport saw him picked as BBC Sports Personality of the Century in 1999.
The fighter known as ‘The Greatest’ died in 2016 after battling with Parkinson’s syndrome for over three decades.
Ali Walsh, who is studying for a business degree, is the son of Ali’s daughter, Rasheda Ali.
After the win Ali Walsh celebrated in the ring with Bob Arum, who also promoted 27 of his grandfather’s fights.
Ali Walsh is signed to Arum’s Top Rank company.
