It was the spring of 1979 and I was working at CBS in Hollywood when the elevator I was riding on stopped. The door opened...and a well-dressed, elegant looking and - as he was known for calling himself - "pretty" gentleman... boarded the elevator. It took me less than a fraction of a second to realize...that this "larger than life" individual...was Muhammad Ali.
Two other men accompanied Ali...and it was obvious to his friends that I had recognized him. And "Champ" knew it too. I politely introduced myself...we shook hands...and then I enjoyed a memorable conversation with "The Greatest."
Our chat was casual and social. It was at a time in my life when I contributed to the producing of a network television variety series...so I was not a journalist interviewing a legendary and beloved athlete. Instead, Ali graciously expressed sincere interest in my ambitions. We also talked briefly about my show...my admiration and respect for him as a fighter, as a humanitarian, and as a man...and yes, even the hot weather in southern California...all in less than four minutes.
Champ was charming, friendly, funny and warm...and he welcomed to talk with one of the many, many millions who rooted and cheered for him. At that point in my career, I had already had the privilege of working with numerous celebrities...and I could tell when a "star" was being real...or when he or she was altogether fake. I was certain - and still am today - that Ali was genuinely engaged in our conversation.
My regret is that I didn't take a picture with Champ. Again, this was 1979 when there were no iPhones...no cell phones of any kind. And it wasn't until after Champ and I exchanged pleasurable dialogue...reached the ground floor at CBS Television City...shook hands again...and said our goodbyes...that I recalled that in my briefcase was an Instamatic camera. Unfortunately, I had simply forgotten it was there.
As everyone knows... Muhammad Ali passed away in Arizona on Friday night, June 3rd, 2016 after a 32-year battle with Parkinson's Disease. He was only 74.Of course, I don't imagine that Champ ever had any recollections of me...or the time we shared an elevator at CBS. And although I don't have a photograph to hang up on the wall...to brag about to others...the memory in my mind...will be something I will cherish forever.
And that's The Controversy for today.
I'm Gary B. Duglin.
"We'll talk again."
The Controversy is a publication of GBD Productions. Founder and Editor-In-Chief of The Controversy is Gary B. Duglin.
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Photo credits: gannett-cdn.com and interactives.courier-journal.com (Muhammad Ali #1), abc7ny.com (Muhammad Ali #2), seattletimes.com (Muhammad Ali #3) and reuters.com (Muhammad Ali #4)
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