That's not George Foreman. It's Michael Dokes, who was 19 years old and only in his first year as a professional fighter during that exhibition fight in 1977. He became a heavyweight champion in 1982 and fought until 1997.
Ali, Kareenm Ali was not a "draft dodger" he was a draft refuser. He did not "dodge". He said openly he would not fight those with whom he had no quarrel. His famous comment was that no Viet Cong ever called him n----r. Draft dodgers are those who supported the war, as long as others fought it. Cheney, Trump, Limbaugh...
Muhammad Ali was not a draft dodger. He didn't flee anywhere. Had he been Amish or Quaker or some other Christian denomination (and white) his conscientious objector status would have gone unquestioned. Had he been in college he may have qualified for a deferral, like many rich kids of the time.
What I find valuable and poignant about his passing is the opportunity for people today to watch and listen as Ali explained the peaceful teachings of the Muslim religion that dictated he not join the war. Jesus was a pacifist and taught peace, yet for centuries people have been slaughtered in the name of Christianity. Likewise, the violent acts of a few insane religious fanatics should not brand the entire Muslim religion. Maybe Ali's words can help a few American crazies understand that, and if not, at least a few normal people.
Ali was the first guy I remember actually not dodging the draft but contesting it as an actual consciencious objector. That's not draft dodging...he was in full public view and put his career on the line to live what he believed.....bad post Wookie...I'm a Viet Nam vet and he's a hero of mine
I was reading an article about Ali last night and what I loved was when he went to a restaurant in the deep south and the waiter said, we don't serve negroes here...Ali answered...That's fine, I don't eat those anyway.
Ali not only risked, but for a time lost, everything for his beliefs: his career, his freedom, and to many his reputation. He was reviled by many (still is apparently). His actions had a profound and lasting affect on society, and for the better. At the time, with all he risked, sacrificed and achieved, I believe Ali's actions were heroic. At least they were to me.
There were people like Ali who opposed the war, refused the draft and were willing to pay the price. White Christians were more likely to be excused. There were millions who opposed the war or just had no stake and got deferment . There were true draft dodgers like Cheney who loved the war and made sure others died.
