UK Boxing Coach Remembers Muhammad Ali

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ)-It’s a loss felt around the world. but for those from Louisville and in the boxing community it’s personal. For UK Boxing Head Coach and founder of the Lexington Legends Boxing Club the memories flooded back again of the time he met Ali almost forty years ago.

William “Sarge” Farris says, “My memories of him are a life full of joy, full of vibrancy.”

Sarge met the champ when he was 19 years old stationed in Honolulu, fighting for the “Hawaii-All Stars.”

Sarge was facing one Ali’s players from his Santa Monica Boxing Club.

“He had a very good team. He had recruited some of the best amateurs in the country at that time.”

But Sarge won, and the Louisville native wanted to get the all-star’s attention.

“I kind of strolled against the ring chanting Louisville, Louisville, Louisville, knowing that he was from Louisville Kentucky and I looked at him.”

Muhammad Ali waved back. It’s a small gesture but for Sarge a priceless moment.

“He just rose his hand in the air and just acknowledged that he was from Louisville, he understands.”

Sarge says the Champ’s larger than life personality held true even outside the ring. He says his will to win and determination to be the best you can be continues to inspire him today.