Significant public hearing agenda for the "Joint Legislative Committee on Professional Boxing," one page, 8 x 11, February 4, 1963, signed in blue ballpoint by four boxers in attendance, "From Cassius Clay, Next Champ, Liston in 8, Good Luck," "Billy Graham," "Henry Armstrong," and "Best wishes, Carmen Basilio," plus one former Yankee infielder, "Gil McDougald." In very good condition, with staining and toning, edge tears and chips, and old tape scattered along the edges. These hearings took place as part of a New York legislative proposal to outlaw boxing following the death of Benny Paret after his infamous 1962 fight with Emile Griffith. Nicknamed the 'Louisville Lip' for his brash talk, the 22-year-old Clay indeed defeated Liston in their first bout a year later on February 25, 1964—Clay outdid his prediction by a round, defeating Liston with a technical knockout in the seventh. Days after the fight, Clay renounced his 'slave name' and became 'Muhammad Ali.' A remarkable autograph revealing Clay's confidence in himself as the "next champ."
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