With the passing of Muhammad Ali, the world lost not just the greatest boxer of all time, but really, one of the great people of all time. Ali was a larger-than-life figure who inspired millions to not just stand up for what they believe in, but to keep believing that they, too, could one day land a punch on a member of The Beatles.
But now that he has passed away, I feel it’s important to say this: I totally could have taken a punch from Muhammad Ali.
I’m not talking about a punch where he would have taken it easy on me, either. And I wouldn’t just be standing there. This would be him and I in a ring (this involves one of us traveling in time so I could face Ali in his prime), I put up my hands and attempt to fight before he no doubt lands a direct hit on my face. But I would totally take it like a champ, and I bet I’d still be standing, too.
It’s really too bad I never made the declaration while Ali was alive, because he was the type of fighter who would track me down and make me prove it. Don’t get me wrong, I would have relished the opportunity to prove it. It’s just unfortunate that now everyone has to take my word for it because I never back down from a challenge or fight, and I would have loved the opportunity to be punched in the face by Ali and absolutely not get knocked out. I really wish I said this sooner.
Rest in peace, champ. I definitely could have taken a punch from you, but you’re still a hero in my book.
