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I knew I had him in the first round. Almighty God was with me. I want everyone to bear witness, I am the greatest! I'm the greatest thing that ever lived. I don't have a mark on my face, and I upset Sonny Liston, and I just turned twenty-two years old. I must be the greatest. I showed the world. I talk to God everyday. I shook up the world, I'm the king of the world. You must listen to me. I am the greatest! I can't be beat!

Muhammad Ali#4

ConfidenceFaithPrideEgo

About this quote

What does it mean?
Ali asserts his greatness with religious conviction and youthful pride.
In plain terms
I am unbeatable and chosen by God.
What can you take from it?
Self-affirmation boosts confidence.

Where it applies

  • competition
  • public image
  • self-talk

Putting it to work

  • affirm strengths
  • speak boldly

Questions to consider

  • When is boasting justified?

Another view

Boasting can seem arrogant.

More from Muhammad Ali

  1. This is the legend of Cassius Clay, The most beautiful fighter in the world today. He talks a great deal, and brags indeed-y, Of a muscular punch that's incred…

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  2. I think Terrell will catch hell at the sound of the bell. He's going around saying that he's a championship-fighter, but when he meets me he fall 20 pound ligh…

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  3. While I'm talking to you I'm thinking up the greatest short poem of all time. This poem tells how it feels to be great as I am: Me - wheee!

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