Jordan or Ali: Who is the Most Influential Athlete?

I won't even begin to take credit for today's discussion topic.  I actually got the idea from a good friend of mine.  He posed the question on Facebook.  In many circles, there is no question both athletes were the best in their respective fields.  But, being an influential athlete entails more than what is done on the court or in the ring.  

Michael Jordan dominated the game of basketball for many years.  His dominance began while playing at UNC-Chapel Hill in the 1980's.  His career culminated with a national championship in 1982.  The following year, he was drafted by the Chicago Bulls. The rest, as they say, "is history."  He dominated on the offensive and defensive end of the court.  He was undefeated in championship play (6 NBA Titles).  He won five regular season MVP awards, and deserved more.  He accomplished everything imaginable on the basketball court.

Muhammad Ali might be the only athlete with the same level of name recognition as Michael Jordan.  In fact, because of his faith, and his influence in the Middle East, he may have an even more recognizable name.  Ali dominated with superior speed, impeccable technique and unquestioned psychological dominance.  He won a gold medal in the 1960 Olympic games.  He was the first man to knock down the following boxers: Sonny Liston, George Foreman and Chuck Wepner.  He participated in one of the most famous bouts in the history of boxing-"The Rumble in The Jungle."  He won the fight and reclaimed the heavyweight championship against George Foreman.  Without a doubt, Ali dominated the sport of boxing.

Michael Jordan never received a lot of criticism about his play on the court.  He received some criticism about his gambling in the 1990's, but that never overshadowed his play on the court.  However, the elephant in the room has always been his lack of community involvement.  What did Jordan do for his community?  People believe Jordan was "too safe."  He never spoke out about any of the major issues plaguing his community.  Many people expected Jordan to use his influence to help influence important social issues.  Look at how Magic Johnson has been a spokesperson for the HIV virus.  Can you think of any social cause Michael Jordan endorsed?

Ali on the other hand has continuously endorsed and fought social battles.  During the Vietnam war, he was drafted and made a decision not to fight in the war because of his conscientious objector status.  Let's be clear, that was not a popular move.  Since being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1984, he has been involved in raising awareness and funds for finding a cure to the debilitating neurological disease.  He has also been an avid supporter of the Special Olympics and the Make-a-Wish Foundation.  In 2005, he was awarded with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.  His biggest impact may have been made outside of the ring.  That is quite an accomplishment considering his stellar career as a boxer.  That is influence.

Ali is the most influential athlete in the history of sports.


Instagram

Peace