New documentary focuses on “When Ali Came to Ireland” - VIDEO

Film shows the impact Ireland and its hero worship had on the champion

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Muhammad Ali in Ireland

Photo by Lensmen Press and Public Relations Photographic Agency

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Ready for some real Christmas magic? Make sure to catch the new documentary about boxing legend Muhammad Ali’s visit to Ireland.

Directed by filmmaker Ross Whitaker, the new documentary tells the story of Ali’s fight against Alvin Lewis in Croke Park, Dublin in 1972.

The miracle is that it happened at all and Whitaker spins an irresistible tale as he shows us how Michael ‘Butty’ Sugrue managed to persuade the boxing king to visit the emerald isle.

Featuring hilarious and often oddly moving archive footage of Ali’s public appearances and the fight, When Ali Came to Ireland will be broadcast on Ireland's national broadcaster RTE on New Year’s Day. 

For Ali, who had just suffered his first loss against Joe Frazier, it was a return to form and the old magic as he fought (and won) against Alvin Lewis in Croke Park in 1972.

In front of a full capacity crowd, Ali eventually overcame Lewis with an eleventh round TKO.

'It took five years to get this made but in a way that was a good thing as this year is the 40th anniversary of the fight. It was a joy to make,' Whitaker told The Irish Times.

'The world of boxing is full of characters and wherever Ali went, a gang of lovable rogues would follow.'

Check out the trailer:

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