By Thomas L Blair 9 June 2018 ©

 

Boxing legend Muhammad Ali was the power figure that 1980s Black Londoners needed. Though tired from his travels, Ali autographed his books for fans and revellers at Dougies Hideaway club in North London, one night in 1983.

Ali “The Greatest” had defeated four of the best British boxers from 1963 to 1976. But more than that, “each victory was a blow against racism too” recalls Alex Pascall, former BBC Black Londoners presenter,

Without doubt, Muhammad Ali’s prowess lifted Black spirits in an era of hard times. We all stood united in adulation of the man who reached out to the world from strong Black roots.