A lot is known about Muhammed Ali: he’s a three-time world heavyweight boxing champion; he was born Cassius Clay and changed his name when he converted to Islam; he was the self-proclaimed “Champion of the World”; he floated like a butterfly and stung like a bee. But what is less known about the famous pugilist is that he is of Irish descent. His great-grandfather, Abe Grady, left Ireland to settle in Kentucky in the 1860s, and married a freed slave. Their granddaughter, Odessa Lee Grady Clay, was Ali’s mother.
Yesterday Muhammad Ali returned to Ennis, Ireland, his great-grandfather’s hometown, for a sentimental look at his family’s ancient homeland. Ennis Mayor Frankie Neylon was there for the champ’s big homecoming, and joins us this morning.
At The World, we believe strongly that human-centered journalism is at the heart of an informed public and a strong democracy. We see democracy and journalism as two sides of the same coin. If you care about one, it is imperative to care about the other.
Every day, our nonprofit newsroom seeks to inform and empower listeners and hold the powerful accountable. Neither would be possible without the support of listeners like you. If you believe in our work, will you give today? We need your help now more than ever!