In 1965, in Lewiston, Maine, one of the most iconic moments in sports history took place: the heavyweight championship rematch between Muhammad Ali and Sonny Liston. Captured by renowned photographer Neil Leifer, this image immortalizes Muhammad Ali answering journalists after his resounding victory over Liston. Ali’s triumph, marked by his exuberant pose and defiant proclamation “I am the greatest,” symbolizes a decisive moment in boxing and sports history.
Neil Leifer is a renowned American photographer, born in 1942 in New York. He began his career in his teens and quickly gained recognition for his ability to capture the essence of sports moments. Over the years, Leifer’s works have graced the covers of prestigious magazines such as Sports Illustrated, Time, and Life. His portfolio includes some of the most memorable sports photographs, particularly his images of Muhammad Ali which are especially iconic.
Leifer’s photography is celebrated for its dynamic composition and emotional depth, often providing viewers with a unique perspective on the world of sports. His contributions to sports photography have earned him a place among the greats, making his works precious pieces of sports history.