By MARK REY MONTEJO
Half a century after his grandfather, Muhammad Ali, took down Joe Frazier in an epic fight at the Big Dome, Nico Ali Walsh came here with a mindset of writing his own history at the iconic venue.
And with the opportunity of honoring the “Thrilla in Manila” last Wednesday, Walsh was hoping he could put up a convincing win in front of the Filipino crowd.
“I hope that one day I can get a bigger fight here. I don’t know what fight it was with my grandfather when he fought Frazier, I don’t know how many fights he had at that time,” said Walsh.
“Hopefully, when I’m at that time, I can put on a better show here. Get an incredible knockout or incredible performance. Get an Ali Mall part 2 or something,” he added.
Ali Mall, one of the oldest shopping centers on Philippine soil, was built less than a year after the legendary Ali-Frazier clash near the Big Dome.
It was just one of many recognitions that the country has given to Ali as well as to Frazier for the long-lasting impact of the event.
Walsh (11-2-1), who ended up with a majority draw with Thai Kittisak Klinton (10-2-1) in their eight-round duel, was also grateful for the support from the crowd who showed up to celebrate the golden anniversary of Thrilla.
“It was amazing. It was amazing and the people made it special. It’s not just the walls and the place. It’s not just here. It’s not just the arena
that makes it special. Not to sound corny or anything, but seriously, it’s the people,” said the 6-foot orthodox.
“If I was in an empty stadium, this wouldn’t be as special. It’s the people chanting Ali now the same way they were 50 years ago. That’s what makes it special,” he added.
It was a love that sometimes Nico, son of Rasheda Ali, doesn’t receive from his country.
“No bashing America. But I fight in America and I get booed. I’m going to be real with you guys. Certain parts of America, my grandfather was hated at one point in time,” Walsh continued.
