Islamabad 3 August: Rahaman Ali, the younger brother of legendary boxer Muhammad Ali and a former heavyweight fighter in his own right, passed away on Friday, at the age of 82, as confirmed by the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville.
The news has sent ripples through the boxing community and fans worldwide, marking the end of an era tied to one of sport’s most iconic families.
Born Rudolph Arnett Clay on July 18, 1943, Rahaman followed in his brother’s footsteps, turning professional in 1964 and fighting until 1972. Though he never achieved the global fame of Muhammad, who died in 2016, Rahaman remained a steadfast supporter, often training with him and sharing the limelight during Muhammad’s illustrious career. The Muhammad Ali Center remembered him as “a loving brother and a kind soul,” echoing Rahaman’s own words from 2016, when he described Muhammad as “a really sweet, kind, loving, giving, affectionate, wonderful person.”
Rahaman’s death comes after a life of quiet dedication, including co-authoring two books: That’s Muhammad Ali’s Brother! My Life on the Undercard (2014) and My Brother, Muhammad Ali – The Definitive Biography (2019). His passing was mourned on social media, with X users like @BoxingLegends paying tribute: “Rest in peace, Rahaman Ali – a legacy beyond the ring.” As of 06:00 AM PKT on Sunday, August 3, 2025, no official cause of death has been disclosed, though the Ali family has requested privacy during this time.
The loss adds to the legacy of the Ali family, with Rahaman’s life intertwined with Muhammad’s journey from Cassius Clay to global icon. Funeral arrangements are pending, but the boxing world is already reflecting on his contributions, both in and out of the ring.
