Lonnie Ali, the widow of legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, revealed that the idea for a postage stamp honoring Ali originated from a board member at the Muhammad Ali Center who remembered Ali’s joke about wanting to be a stamp to never get “licked.” This wish is set to come true ten years after Ali’s passing, just before what would have been his 84th birthday. The U.S. Postal Service will release a stamp on January 15th featuring an iconic 1974 Associated Press photo capturing Ali’s boxing pose, along with an image of Ali in a pinstripe suit in the background, acknowledging his activism and humanitarian work.
The stamp’s unveiling ceremony will take place in Ali’s hometown of Louisville, Kentucky, and will honor his legacy as both a sports icon and global advocate for peace. The decision to choose the specific image for the stamp was based on showcasing Ali’s courage and conviction, highlighting his impact both inside and outside the boxing ring. The stamp will be a “forever stamp,” symbolizing Ali’s enduring legacy that remains constant and impactful over time.
With 22 million copies printed and no plans for reprints once sold out, the stamps go on sale on January 15th both in post offices and online. Lonnie Ali expressed her excitement about the stamp, emphasizing how it will keep Ali’s memory alive and serve as a reminder of his fearless authenticity and unwavering principles, which are especially relevant in today’s challenging times.
Reflecting on Ali’s legacy, Lonnie Ali shared insights into his wisdom, kindness, and humility, highlighting his ability to connect with people on a personal level. As the 10th anniversary of Ali’s passing approaches, she expressed gratitude for the enduring impact of his legacy and the lessons he continues to teach through his actions and words.