The city of Lewiston, Maine, unveiled a 10-foot bronze statue of Muhammad Ali on Saturday, marking a historic moment for both the legendary boxer and the community. The sculpture, created by artist Zenos Frudakis, depicts Ali’s famous “phantom punch” during his 1965 fight against Sonny Liston at the Lewiston Colisee. The unveiling ceremony took place at 65 Main Street, near Bates Mill No.
5, with city officials and local leaders in attendance. The project, which has been a decade in the making, holds deep significance for Lewiston. “This is more than a tribute to a great athlete,” said Lewiston artist Charlie Hewitt.
Ali statue symbolizes Lewiston resilience
“It’s a recognition of resilience, transformation, and dignity.”
The statue serves as a symbol of the city’s perseverance and renewal, especially in the wake of a tragic mass shooting, the worst in Maine’s history. It also represents Lewiston’s place in boxing history, as the city stepped in to host the Ali-Liston rematch when major cities like Boston declined due to controversy.
Frudakis, who dedicated three years to creating the sculpture, expressed his hope that the statue will contribute to Lewiston’s renaissance. “It’s gratifying when people say that they enjoy it, and they’re going to enjoy driving by,” he said. Attendees at the ceremony, such as Augusta resident Abigail Stratton, emphasized the importance of the statue in preserving history for future generations.
“Having that statue here is going to keep some of that history and memory alive for generations to come,” Stratton said. The unveiling of the nation’s first full-body bronze statue of Muhammad Ali not only celebrates the boxer’s legacy but also serves as a beacon of hope and strength for the entire community of Lewiston.
