Muhammad Ali’s legacy is set to reach new heights once again. A decade after his passing, the legendary boxer and global cultural icon is being honoured with a commemorative United States postage stamp—marking the first time his image has appeared on official U.S. mail.
The United States Postal Service has produced 22 million stamps, each featuring an iconic 1974 Associated Press photograph of Ali in his classic boxing stance. The release celebrates not only his dominance in the ring but also his enduring influence beyond sport.
“As the guardian of his legacy, I’m thrilled, excited, and ecstatic,” said Ali’s widow, Lonnie Ali. “Every time people see that stamp, they will remember him. He will remain at the forefront of their consciousness, and for me, that’s incredibly meaningful.”
Each sheet of 20 stamps also includes a second image of Ali dressed in a pinstripe suit, symbolizing his life as an activist, humanitarian, and global voice for justice and compassion.
Postal officials have confirmed that the stamps will not be reprinted once sold out, a move expected to drive strong interest from both collectors and the general public.
Recalling her husband’s trademark wit, Lonnie Ali added, “The first thing Muhammad would say is, ‘I told you the only way I could be licked is if I was put on a postage stamp.’”
Muhammad Ali died in 2016 at the age of 74. Beyond winning three heavyweight championship titles, “The Greatest” was widely celebrated for his principled stand on civil rights, peace, and humanitarian causes.
For Lonnie Ali, the stamp represents more than recognition—it is a powerful reminder of her husband’s mission to spread compassion and stand firm in his beliefs. “It’s another testament to the strength and endurance of his legacy, and the values and convictions he lived by,” she said.
A first-day-of-issue ceremony for the Muhammad Ali Forever Stamp is scheduled to take place in Louisville, Kentucky—Ali’s birthplace and home of the Muhammad Ali Center, which preserves and shares his life story.
Throughout his remarkable career, Ali received numerous honours both inside and outside the ring, including the United Nations Messenger of Peace Award in 1998 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005.
Describing the stamp as the ultimate tribute, Lonnie Ali said it will serve as a lasting symbol of his impact. “This Forever Stamp will be part of his legacy—one of the shining stars that will continue to inspire people to walk in his charitable and compassionate footsteps.”
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