DESCRIBED by boxing legend Muhammad Ali as his “greatest fan” former Warrington amateur boxer David Leigh has written a book about the boyhood hero he has met seven times.
“In the name of Ali” is a rhyming biography of all of Muhammad Ali’s 62 professional fights, including one tough exhibition contest, including key episodes to define the man many acclaim to be the “greatest boxer of all time.”
David, first became aware of Ali through his late father Ken, and still runs the family motor mechanic business Ken Leigh Motors at Bruche.
David was aged just eleven when his father sat him down to watch the Ali v Jerry Quarry contest in October 1970. David was so impressed he took up the sport as an amateur at the Raven Boxing Club.
He went on to meet Ali seven times, the first occasion as a 19-year-old in May 1979 at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London after Ali had been involved in an exhibition contest at the Royal Albert Hall. He had earlier “wrangled” his way into the boxer’s dressing room the get an autograph.
The final time they met was in January 2001 at the Hilton Hotel when Ali was in London promoting a charity event.
In between meeting they have corresponded with David building up an impressive collection of autographed photographs.
“I will be sending him a copy of the book for his birthday,” said David, who admits that his love affair with the sport is now over.
“Believe it or not I am not interested in boxing anymore. There is too much razzmatazz and trash talking with grudges going on these days. I know Ali had plenty to say himself but he did it with style.”
Ali often wrote rhymes and poems which gave David the idea for his book.
“In the Name of Ali” is published by Win Marketing Ltd and is available to buy on Amazon priced £19.95 or by calling Ken Leigh Motors on 01925 813677.
