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About this quote

What does it mean?
Ali distinguishes between religious greatness and his own athletic greatness.
In plain terms
He says God is the greatest, but he is the greatest boxer.
What can you take from it?
Recognize higher powers while claiming your own achievements confidently.

Where it applies

  • interviews
  • public statements
  • religious expression

Putting it to work

  • balance humility and confidence
  • acknowledge faith
  • own your skills

Questions to consider

  • How do you balance faith and self-confidence?
  • What does it mean to be the greatest?

Another view

The distinction can be seen as contradictory by some religious interpretations.

More from Muhammad Ali

  1. I'm not the greatest; I'm the double greatest. Not only do I knock 'em out, I pick the round

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  2. I'd like for them to say he took a few cups of love, he took one tablespoon of patience, one tablespoon, teaspoon of generosity, one pint of kindness. He took …

    Permalink to quote #23

  3. It's just a job. Grass grows, birds fly, waves pound the sand. I beat people up.

    Permalink to quote #20

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