Jamal Anderson's Blog – Jam's World

There was so much on TV last night I doubt many tuned in to ESPN’s 30 for 30 special about the Muhammad Ali v Larry Holmes fight. I had to tune in because I have a personal connection to both fighters, especially Ali. You are about to read my recollections, and more importantly, those of my Dad, James Anderson. For many years, 1970-80, my Dad served as Muhammad Ali’s bodyguard; he put more than his life on the line, Ali was like his brother.

The Family with Ali at Deer Lake in 1978

The memory never escapes me: the phone rang at our house, and I picked up. I knew who it was immediately, but my Dad was unusually quiet. I remember asking him what was wrong, but I already knew: Muhammad Ali had just fought Larry Holmes. My Dad didn’t really say much, but we all watched the fight and it was painfully apparent Ali should not have been in the ring. I asked my father how he was doing; Dad was stoic, but he said “I never wanted to see this.” Larry Holmes had been a member of the family; he was a reliable and skilled training partner with Ali for years.  In fact, everyone who worked for Ali was family; Holmes was no different. This fight, and how it transpired, hurt the entire family. Muhammad Ali never gave up in any fight, ever. That toughness, pride and determination kept the aging Ali standing for the worst beating he had ever suffered. Every member of Ali’s staff felt those punches, and my Dad was no different. The words were slow and deliberate, but very clear out of my Dad’s mouth that night. He was hurt, he hurt for Ali, and he would never forget the Champ’s face after the fight. The pictures would come next. I remember vividly seeing post-fight photos because it was the first time in my life I had seen tears in my father’s eyes. Everyone who knew and cared for Muhammad shared the same experience that night. They all knew Holmes was going to be tough to beat, but they also knew Ali’s heart. In that heart there was a belief, or a hope, that he could pull off an improbable upset. On this night, and in this fight, that heart wouldn’t fail Ali, unfortunately many wish it would have.

In this picture, Dad is getting Ali ready to train.

Never far, Dad watching over Ali as he trained for the Holmes fight

We could not blame Larry Holmes, though; he was a great champion in his own right who earned his standing. Larry was in his prime, and Muhammad was 38 years old, clearly past his. Eight million dollars could tempt anyone, and when you’re Muhammad Ali you always find a way to win, right? Ali knew what to expect, and Holmes knew Ali. The rest is history….

Ali, Ringside of another fight before he decided to fight Holmes. Dad (standing) in the sunglasses, watching over Ali as usual

A few months ago, I was sitting in my office and my Dad called. He wanted to tell me about ESPN’s planned special on the Ali/Holmes fight. Apparently they wanted to speak with many of the members of Ali’s staff to discuss that fight and the events surrounding that night. My Dad rarely talked about that night, but he was willing to discuss his thoughts and feelings about the events surrounding that fight. Unfortunately, he was battling cancer, and fell ill. My Dad would eventually die in April, and was not able to participate in the special. Watching the special brought back many feelings and memories, and the few times in the footage I saw my Dad it was surreal. I will never forget the experience of being at Deer Lake, Ali’s training camp. The footage of the camp, and Ali’s interaction with everyone there was amazing. There will only be ONE Ali. On many occasions Ali said that he only wanted to be surrounded by the best; my Dad was the best. I wanted to share some of the stories surrounding the fight, because my Dad cannot. We are fortunate to always have his memory, and blessed that many of his experiences with Ali were photographed as well.

Dad in what would be his signature cowboy hat as Muhammad ate before training

My brother Jay, Larry Holmes & Me a few years after he defeated Ali. My Dad took this picture. Still a family, Ali would have it no other way

Here are a few clips from ESPN’s 30 for 30 special on the Ali v. Holmes fight.

A strong bond 30 years later. Ali would sign this picture for my Dad: "The Best to the Greatest"

Thanks for taking the time to read this post. Writing it brought back a flood of memories that I was happy to share.  Losing my Dad only a few months ago, the emotions are still raw, but what a life he lived protecting some of the Greatest ever.

J*A*M