Muhammad Ali 1972 Fight Worn Trunks | Ali v. Chuvalo 2

Gifted from Muhammad Ali to Davey Brown

Gifted from Davey Brown to Sandy Kask, and subsequently sold via Steiner Auctions

Sold via SCP Auctions, Lot 10 of 2021 Summer Premier Auction, July 10, 2021

Muhammad Ali wore these Everlast trunks in his 1972 NABF Heavyweight Title bout against George Chuvalo at the Pacific Coliseum in Vancouver, British Columbia. Ali successfully defended the belt via unanimous decision after 12 rounds. The victory marked Ali’s second over Chuvalo – the rivals first fought in 1966, which also ended in a decision victory for ‘The Greatest.’

The trunks have been photomatched by Sports Investors Authentication to images from the bout on May 1, 1972. 

A signed and notarized letter of provenance from the daughter of the fight’s referee Dave Brown, along with a letter from James Spence Authentication, is also included. Sotheby's was able to independently verify the letter via email correspondence with Sandy Kask.

Going Deeper | Muhammad Ali 

Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. on January 17, 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky, is widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of all time. He rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s, capturing the world's attention not only for his incredible athletic prowess, but also for his outspoken views on politics and social justice.

Ali first began boxing at the age of 12 and quickly showed a natural talent for the sport. He won a gold medal at the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome and turned professional later that year, quickly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division. Throughout his career, Ali fought some of the greatest boxers of his time, including Sonny Liston, Joe Frazier, and George Foreman, and won numerous titles and accolades along the way.

But Ali's impact extended beyond the ring. He was known for his confident and charismatic personality, often reciting poetry and delivering memorable one-liners to reporters and opponents alike. He also became a prominent figure in the civil rights movement, refusing to be drafted into the Vietnam War, citing his opposition to the war and his religious beliefs. This decision led to a three-year suspension from boxing and made Ali a controversial figure in the eyes of many Americans.

Despite this setback, Ali continued to fight and advocate for causes he believed in, including racial equality and Parkinson's disease awareness. He retired from boxing in 1981 with a record of 56 wins, 5 losses, and 37 knockouts. Ali passed away on June 3, 2016, at the age of 74, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most iconic and influential athletes in history.