Lonnie Ali to Honor Muhammad Ali’s Legacy with a New Audio Series Featuring Will Smith, Mike Tyson, and More
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Lonnie Ali, the wife of the late Muhammad Ali, is set to honor the boxing legend’s enduring legacy through a new audio series titled “Ali in Me,” launching January 23 on Audible. Co-hosted by Lonnie and Ali’s close friend John Ramsey, the eight-part series will feature a star-studded lineup, including Will Smith, Mike Tyson, Billy Crystal, Common, Rosie Perez, Killer Mike, Bob Costas, and Ali’s daughter, Laila Ali.
Announced on what would have been Muhammad Ali’s 83rd birthday, the series is a collaboration between Mercury Studios and Treefort Media. It will explore the champ’s life and lasting influence, both inside and outside the ring, through intimate conversations, never-before-heard audio clips, and a rich blend of original music, sound design, and poetry.
Lonnie Ali aims to bring her husband’s humanity to the forefront, reflecting on his profound impact on society. “This series reintroduces Muhammad’s voice at a time when the country is experiencing division and toxic discourse,” Lonnie said. She emphasized the importance of unity, reminiscent of the iconic moment when Ali, battling Parkinson’s disease, lit the cauldron at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
The series will celebrate Muhammad Ali’s principles of hope, compassion, and resilience, which transcended his boxing career. “He symbolized everything America strives for—greatness, kindness, and the aspiration to be better,” Lonnie added.
John Ramsey, who co-produced the series alongside Lonnie and Josh Wakely, shared his excitement about the guests’ heartfelt stories. From Mike Tyson’s emotional reflections on his admiration for Ali to Will Smith’s behind-the-scenes anecdotes from portraying Ali in the 2001 film, the episodes promise to capture the champ’s unique ability to inspire and connect with people across generations.
“Muhammad Ali’s voice remains as powerful as ever,” Lonnie noted. “Hearing his words directly from him gives his message an unmatched emotional weight.”
Known as “The Greatest,” Muhammad Ali’s career spanned three decades, marked by legendary fights against Sonny Liston, George Foreman, and Joe Frazier. Beyond his athletic achievements, he was a vocal advocate for civil rights, famously refusing to serve in the Vietnam War due to his Muslim beliefs.
Lonnie hopes the series will resonate even with those unfamiliar with Ali’s boxing legacy. “People may not have seen him fight, but they know who he is,” she said. “I want this podcast to inspire others to follow in Muhammad’s footsteps and recognize his ongoing influence.”
Through personal stories, powerful soundscapes, and Ali’s own words, “Ali in Me” promises to be a profound tribute to the life and legacy of one of history’s most iconic figures.
