The WBC heavyweight title, which was won by Muhammad Ali in his Rumble In the Jungle fight, has been sold for over PS5.15million.
Ali used his "rope-adope" tactics in the legendary Zaire fight with George Foreman, 1974 to exterminate his opponent.
The WBC heavyweight title was won by Muhammad Ali in his Rumble In the Jungle fight. It has been sold for PS5.15million
At the Dallas auction, Texas, the gold-coloured metal belt with green leather strap sold for 13 times its PS400,000 estimated price
At the Dallas auction, the gold-coloured metal belt with green leather strap sold for 13 times its PS400,000 value.
Troy Kinunen, an American businessman who collected 1,600 items related to the boxer over his lifetime, offered it for sale.
Heritage Auctions spokesperson stated that: "Here is the most iconic symbol of that great achievement, the WBC Heavyweight Championship Belt earned for Muhammad Ali’s victory over George Foreman during the legendary 'Rumble In the Jungle'.
"Ali took out the thunder from the Foreman thunderstorm and unleashed lightning of its own, dropping Goliath and ending his long journey back up to the top of the sport seven years after his title was unjustly taken.
"The piece's historical significance, which is arguably the most significant boxing award ever offered at public auction, cannot be overstated."
The red robe worn before the fight of the century by Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier was also sold. It cost PS290,000. ($348,000)
In the velvet custom-made garment, the legendary boxer headed to Madison Square Garden wearing the velvet outfit with his name on it.
