Sport: Ali in Wonderland

The visitors from America had come to pay a courtesy call on Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos and his stylish wife Imelda. Dutifully diplomatic, they praised Autocrat Marcos for his leadership and vision. The President was flattered, and one of the guests continued to gush. "Looking at the way you chose your wife, I can see you're not so dumb," said Muhammad Ali. Joe Frazier flinched, but Marcos quickly counterpunched. "Looking at yours," he informed the heavyweight champ, "I can see you're not so far behind."

If Ali's reception in Manila was any indication, he...

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