The President of the Africa Boxing Confederation (AFBC), Eyassu Berhanu has formally welcomed Mrs. Khalilah Camacho-Ali, wife of the late boxing legend, Muhammad Ali who is in Nigeria to assess preparations to commemorate the 50th anniversary celebrations of the famous 1974 world heavyweight title fight between Muhammad Ali George Foreman in Kinshasa, DR Congo.
Mr. Berhanu who took office last November addressed the entire continent in his open letter:
Dear African Boxers,
I am delighted to share with you the inspiring news that Mrs. Khalilah Camacho-Ali, the wife of the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, arrived in Nigeria on Wednesday (July 10) as part of the preparations to commemorate the 50th anniversary celebrations of the famous October 30, 1974 world heavyweight title fight between Muhammad Ali and the unbeaten and undisputed champion George Foreman in Kinshasa, DR Congo. The celebrations will be held in Lagos in October this year.
This visit holds significant meaning for all of us in the boxing community, as Muhammad Ali’s legacy continues to inspire countless athletes around the world.
Muhammad Ali was not just a champion in the ring, but a symbol of perseverance, courage, and unwavering belief in one’s self. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming the greatest of all time serves as a testament to what can be achieved with determination and hard work.
As boxers, you are the torchbearers of this rich legacy. You represent the strength, resilience, and potential of Africa. Mrs. Khalilah Camacho-Ali’s visit is a reminder of the greatness that lies within each of you. It is an opportunity to reflect on the values that Muhammad Ali embodied and to draw inspiration from his remarkable story.
I urge you all to seize this moment to rededicate yourselves to your training, to push beyond your limits, and to strive for excellence both in and outside the ring. Remember, the spirit of a true champion is not just in the victories, but in the continuous effort to be better, to rise above challenges, and to inspire others along the way.
Let us honour Muhammad Ali’s legacy by committing ourselves to the highest standards of sportsmanship, discipline, and respect. Together, we can elevate African boxing to new heights and make our continent proud.
Stay strong, stay focused, and keep fighting for your dreams.
With best regards,
Eyassu Wossen Berhanu
AFBC President
Credit: AFBC Communications