Marking the 50th anniversary of one of the most iconic boxing matches in history, an original programme from the legendary "Rumble in the Jungle" bout between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman is set to be auctioned in London this month. This rare 16-page French-language paperback is estimated to fetch between £2,000 and £3,000 in the Timed Online Autographs and Memorabilia sale at Chiswick Auctions which runs from the 30th August - 15th September.
The Rumble in the Jungle took place on 30th October 1974, in Kinshasa-Gombe, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo). The fight saw heavyweight champion George Foreman face off against former champion Muhammad Ali. In a stunning upset, Ali claimed victory by knockout in the eighth round, regaining the heavyweight title. The match was watched by millions worldwide, becoming the most viewed live television broadcast of its time.
Interestingly, the fight was originally scheduled for 25th September 1974, as indicated on the ticket. However, a delay was necessary after Foreman sustained a cut while sparring, pushing the fight to its eventual date in late October.
The Rumble in the Jungle.- Muhammad Ali vs George Foreman
Estimate £2,000 - £3,000
The programme on offer, showing only minor signs of handling, is part of the collection of Hartmut Scherzer, a renowned 86-year-old German sports reporter who was present at the event. Scherzer has a distinguished career, including the remarkable achievement of covering every FIFA World Cup since 1962, making him the journalist with the second highest number of World Cup appearances.
This sale offers a unique opportunity for collectors and boxing enthusiasts alike to own a piece of sports history, commemorating one of the greatest moments in the world of boxing.
To have your Autographs & Memorobilia professionally valued get in touch with Valentina Borghi, Head of Department directly