RayClay
Hall of Fame Poster
- Joined
- Nov 14, 2005
- Messages
- 26,958
- Reaction score
- 9,712
His philanthropy is off the charts great. Without looking I would guess that he has raised hundreds of millions of dollars for various charities. He was known to "give back" to his childhood community. Pay for nights in Hotels for the homeless etc..
He was also known as an ambassador for peace which led him to war torn countries. He once went to and successfully assisted in the negotiations for the release of American prisoners from Iraq.
He wasn't a celebrity looking for attention or publicity which was proven by the numerous acts he did that were often controversial.
On a side note: He was one of the few if not the only "draft avoiders" that my father, a 30 year vet, supported. He understood Ali's stance and respected that he didn't run "like a punk" to Canada rather he stayed and fought for his rights and his principles.
He would never have had to fight, simply go around and give exhibitions to support the war effort. He took a principled stand instead. Lots hated him for it, but he was honest and took his punishment for his beliefs when he could have easily got by with some token gesture.