Muhammad Ali’s Grandson Set To Make His Professional Boxing Debut In August With Top Rank
The Grandson of Muhammad Ali, 20-year-old middleweight Nico Ali Walsh, has officially signed a multi-fight professional contract with Bob Arum’s Top Rank, and is expected to make his debut on 14th August.
Nico is the son of Muhammad Ali’s daughter, Rasheda Ali Walsh, the noted author and public speaker. Unlike his mother, Nico has chosen to follow in his grandfathers footsteps and continue the family’s tradition in boxing. In a press release with Top Rank, Nico spoke about how important the continuation of his grandfathers legacy is to him and his love of boxing.
“I’m doing what I love,” Ali Walsh said. “Signing with Top Rank is a dream come true. I’m going to have fun on Aug. 14 and the next time I fight. Top Rank will give me the name, date and location, and I’ll have a great time. I am honored to continue the fighting legacy that my grandfather started. It is a responsibility I don’t take lightly.”
Nico’s choice to sign with Top Rank was an easy one. Bob Arum promoted Muhammad Ali for 27 of his professional bouts, including the legendary “thrilla in manilla”. Nico’s uncle and manager, Mike Joyce added “Family history and legacy was a big factor in Nico signing with Top Rank”.
For Nico, it will be a case of juggling boxing and studies as a current full-time student at UNLV, where he is on track to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business next spring.
Prior to turning professional, Nico competed in around 30 amateur bouts, of which we know very little, yet promoter Bob Arum remains hopeful of a solid professional impact. “Nico’s grandfather was a pretty good fighter,” Arum Joked. “Hopefully, Nico will emulate his success. He’s a young man of great character, which one would expect from Muhammad Ali’s grandson.”
Ali Walsh’s professional boxing development will be overseen by two familiar faces from the legendary Kronk Gym in Detroit. Sugarhill Steward, Nephew of the late Emanuel Steward and head trainer of Tyson Fury will serve as his chief second, while boxing artist, Richard T Slone, has been appointed as trainer and cutman.
Walsh Ali’s debut will be broadcasted live on ESPN, on what early reports are suggesting will be the undercard for Joshua Franco vs Andrew Moloney 3.
