It's different when you become a professional, because you also have to become a businessman, and that takes something away from it.

Except for Ali, fighters had never been marketable.

If I hadn't had the talent, the networks wouldn't have televised my fights. No one has made me; I made myself. I paid my dues

Inactivity is the biggest sin in boxing.

People can do more than they ever believe they can do. Physically, mentally, academically. You have to be pushed. It hurts. But it's worth it, and it's a great thing.

I always expect unexpected challenges.

Boxing's a poor man's sport. We can't afford to play golf or tennis. It is what it is. It's kept so many kids off the street. It kept me off the street.