In a move that celebrates the rich history of boxing and the cultural significance of one of its greatest icons, the city of Lewesoton in Maine is set to honor Muhammad Ali with a new bronze statue. This tribute commemorates an iconic match held on May 25, 1965, when Ali, then known as Cassius Clay, faced off against Sonny Liston for the World Heavyweight Championship. The legendary "phantom punch" delivered by Ali in this match solidified his place in sports history. City officials announced plans to unveil the full-body statue on May 31, crafted by renowned Philadelphia-based sculptor Zenos Frudakis.

A Monumental Moment for Lewesoton

During the golden era of professional boxing, a pivotal event took place in the charming town of Lewesoton, nestled in the heart of Maine. On a memorable day in May 1965, the world watched as two titans clashed inside St. Dominic’s Arena. At that time, Cassius Clay, who would later embrace the name Muhammad Ali, squared off against Sonny Liston in their second heavyweight championship bout. In just over a minute into the first round, Ali executed a swift and decisive maneuver, famously termed the "phantom punch," leaving Liston down for the count.

This historic moment not only cemented Ali's legacy but also placed Lewesoton on the map as a landmark of sporting excellence. To celebrate this connection, local leaders have commissioned a magnificent bronze sculpture of Ali. Designed by celebrated artist Zenos Frudakis, the statue will stand proudly at Bates Mill No. 5 on Main Street. Community leader Tom Platz expressed that this tribute encapsulates their identity—a resilient, immigrant-driven town where extraordinary achievements can arise from the most unlikely origins.

As we reflect on this initiative, it serves as a powerful reminder of how historical figures like Muhammad Ali transcend sports to become symbols of courage, perseverance, and social change. His story inspires us to recognize the potential within every community, no matter how small or unexpected its beginnings may seem. This statue stands not merely as a commemoration of Ali's prowess but as an enduring testament to the transformative power of dreams realized against all odds.