The personal basketball memorabilia collection of Hall of Famer Julius “Dr. J” Erving and Muhammad Ali’s fight-worn trucks from Ali vs. Frazier – “The Fight of the Century” — highlight SCP Auctions’ fall auction set to begin Friday, Oct. 28.
On Ali’s trunks, this is what SCP Auctions had to say:
Also of significance is the offering of Ali’s iconic blood-red velvet trucks worn during his first fight versus Joe Frazier. The fight was billed as the “Fight of the Century” and, in retrospect, it probably was. It may have been Ali’s best fight, despite the fact he lost for the first time in his career. He out-punched Frazier 3-1. But his braggadocio, and taunting style, coupled with the 14th-round knockdown by Frazier, resulted in a decision for Smokin’ Joe.
Ironically, the loss, while proving the brash young heavyweight to be mortal, actually increased Ali’s popularity and made him the crowd’s favorite for the rest of his career. The trunks originally belonged to the estate of Drew Bundini Brown. Brown was a long-time assistant of Ali’s and was present for the historic fight.
Other historically-important memorabilia that make up the 763-lot offering include Lou Gehrig’s 1938-39 bat used to hit his last home run in a Yankees uniform, Mickey Cochrane’s 1934 American League Most Valuable Player trophy and the only known autographed photo of 19th Century baseball icon Mike “King” Kelly.
Bidding will be open to registered bidders on Friday, Oct. 28 and conclude on Saturday, Nov. 19. For more information on how to participate, visit www.scpauctions.com or call (800) 350-2273.
