Eyewitness Accounts: Personal Encounters with Muhammad Ali

Throughout the mid-to-late 1990s, and early 2000s, I had the privilege to witness several historic celebrities visit the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Among them, none left a more lasting impression on me than Muhammad Ali. This article recounts several personal encounters with the revered boxer and the experiences that were both humbling and heartbreaking.

Walking into the Terminal: A Narrow Miss with Muhammad Ali

2007, Los Angeles Airport

Back in 2007, while working at LAX, I had the opportunity to meet the legendary Muhammad Ali in a rather unconventional manner. My focus was on my boss, and I was so engrossed in our conversation that I nearly bumped into Muhammad Ali, who was exiting the terminal. He was impeccably dressed, in a well-tailored suit with an expensive overcoat, carrying a briefcase and a small leather bag. As I walked closer, his face caught my attention. There was a stark fear in his eyes; this was a man who had once been an outgoing and outspoken athlete, now brought to his knees by CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy).

A Bro-In-Law's Touching Encounter

Bag of Cigarettes: A Special Gift from Muhammad Ali

My brother-in-law had a different, albeit equally memorable, encounter with Muhammad Ali at LaGuardia Airport, New York. On that day, Muhammad Ali signed a box of Marlboro cigarettes for his brother, Louis, or as my brother-in-law inherited the item. This small gesture demonstrates not only the personal relationships Ali maintained, but also the enduring popularity of a brand that has become iconic through his image and presence.

Standing Outside Terminal, A Close Encounter

2000s, LAX Airport

During my time working at LAX, I had numerous encounters with celebrities, including boxers. My close proximity to Muhammad Ali one day outside a terminal area stands out as one of the most memorable. People's cars were stopping, and the occupants getting out to meet and shake his hand. Ali was in good health, walking on his own, and still carrying a distinct presence despite his condition. He was relatively tall and solidly built—an impression that stood in contrast to his often thin appearance on TV. I observed him handing out religious pamphlets to everyone who approached him. While I did not seek an autograph, my experience was significant; I had spent time with the Greatest.

Other Celebrities I Have Met

Joe Frazier: City Heroes

My other memorable encounters include Joe Frazier, another boxing great, and Vitali Klitschko, a heavyweight champion. I vividly recall the evening when I met Joe Frazier at LAX. He was standing with his son, Marvis, and referee Mills Lane, all waiting to be picked up in the same limo. Joe was friendly, calling me a 'young man' and giving a firm handshake. He mentioned he was planning to write another autobiography and quipped that he was "planning to get wild — just like Kareem!" Over his book, he had enjoyed a few drinks, making him more down to earth than I had anticipated. Joe Frazier was a formidable figure, both in appearance and persona.

Heavyweight Champion Vitali Klitschko

Another impressive encounter took place when I saw Vitali Klitschko, the former heavyweight champion, leaving the Tom Bradley International Terminal. Vitali, with his immense size, was as imposing in person as on television. He was casually dressed in jeans and a dress shirt with a few attendants around him.

Ken Norton: A Gentle Giant

Ken Norton, on the other hand, was a gentler giant. I saw him one evening outside a terminal, smoking a cigarette, then walking inside to order a lemonade. I followed him from outside to within the terminal. Despite his intimidating appearance, he seemed like a kind and down-to-earth individual, especially in his cowboy boots and leather jacket. He was a man of simple tastes and generous demeanor, much less imposing than his physical stature would suggest.

Conclusion

Encountering Muhammad Ali and other notable figures at airport terminals was an unforgettable experience. These encounters not only provided me with a glimpse into their private lives but also deeply moved me. The stories of Ali's courage and his struggles with CTE highlight the enduring impact of a true sports icon who transcended the boxing ring.