By James Blears

 

Muhammad Ali crowned the King of Boxing at the WBC Fiftieth Convention, at the Grand Oasis Hotel in Cancun.

Accompanied by his loving Wife Lonnie, Ali who appeared frail but alert, recieved standing ovations . He was helped with the rope and the crown by Vitali Klitschko, Julio Cesar Chavez Sr and Saul "Canelo" Alvarez. While Sergio Martinez helped with the Diamond Belt, which was also Presented to him.

A film was showed of Ali's unique and extraordinary life, which ended to thunderous applause and chants of Ali, Ali, Ali.

Bravery and brilliance in adversity, was a strong theme whicb ran through Muhammad Ali life and career. Never was it more evident with the courage he showed in making along journey to be honored in this heartfelt way.

His Wife Lonnie who held hands with him and was lovingly attentive, thanked the WBC in a speech. She said Ali and her consider this a wonderful homage and a prestigious and unque award. She also pointed out that it's a first, which Ali particularly cherishes, as he's always keen to be first.

A roar of laughter broke out when she said her Husband was wondering why this prestigious award had taken so long!

Afterwards Lonnie said: "Muhammad is humbled, but he is so grateful to be honored in this way, at the age of seventy, by all of the Boxing World. From the legends and the newcomers- from every division of Boxing. To be named King of Boxing is a huge honor for him."

 

When asked about her speech about why it took so long for this fabulous honor to finally arrive, Lonnie smiled and replied: "That's what he (Ali) would have said. He would have asked Jose (Sulaiman) that."