Albersheim's 2015 January Auction
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/24/2015
If you saw the movie, “Ali,” you’ll never forget Jamie Foxx’s unforgettable depiction of Drew Bundini Brown, who served as Ali’s cornerman, assistant trainer, and head speech writer. Even Bernie Mac got to play him in a movie about Don King. Brown (D 1987) was the originator of the poem, “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee, your hands can’t hit what your eyes can’t see.”
Ali used the poem to taunt Sonny Liston at the press conference prior to his February 25, 1964 victory over the WBA and WBC champion to claim both titles.
Brown (a converted reform Jew – fun fact) died in 1987 from the effects of a car accident. As a result of the crash, he had pinched a nerve in his spine and subsequently suffered a serious fall at home from which he never recovered. He was visited by Ali on his deathbed.
We offer an in-person 9.5” x 8” promotional photo that Brown’s son, Drew III, put out for his father’s public speaking appearances. Signed by Brown and Muhammad Ali, who dated this Dec 16 – 82. Personalized to AC, “Enjoy life its later then you think.”
Authentic vintage Ali autographs are on a steady monetary rise. However, we’ve only seen a handful of Bundini Brown autographs ever offered for public sale! This piece is worthy of the finest collections.
Letter of Authenticity from Richard Albersheim.