“He had a big mouth but,” Zlatan Ibrahimovic revealed the reason behind looking up to Muhammad Ali as a role model


“He had a big mouth but,” Zlatan Ibrahimovic revealed the reason behind looking up to Muhammad Ali as a role model

Muhammad Ali and Zlatan Ibrahimović

Zlatan Ibrahimovic explained Muhammad Ali’s legacy both inside and outside of the ring was a great source of inspiration for him. Muhammad Ali was one of the best fighters in the history of boxing. His legacy extended beyond the boxing ring and touched the lives of many people. Many sports personalities idolize him and Soccer star Zlatan Ibrahimovic is no exception to that.

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During an interview back in the 2000s with EUROSPORT Zlatan Ibrahimovic explained his level of admiration for the boxing legend. He said, “One of my role models in sports and outside the sports also Muhammad Ali of course, and for me this person was, he was talking, but what he said he did, I mean he had a big mouth but he demonstrated also in the ring and he was like if you want to compare football with bugs like Ronaldo, let’s say he stood of for the things he believed in.”

Ibrahimovic certainly has instilled some of the characteristics of Muhammad Ali. Like Ali, he has also been vocal about his belief and backed it up on the pitch. Zlatan has been the most decorated footballer on the planet and is still going strong at the age of 41. 

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When Zlatan Ibrahimovic managed to impress Khabib Nurmagomedov with his taekwondo skills

Zlatan Ibrahimović
Zlatan Ibrahimović

The Dagestani fighter is a longtime favorite of the Swedish attacker, who has frequently expressed his admiration for him. Prior to his matchup with Justin Gaethje at UFC 254, Ibrahimovic gave ‘The Eagle’ a motivational voicemail as a sign of support.

Khabib Nurmagomedov has also shown admiration toward the AC Milan player. Khabib commented on one of Zlatan’s Instagram post back in December of last year.  The Swedish forward can be seen displaying his taekwondo abilities In the post. Nurmagomedov chuckled as he remarked on the impressive kicks using one of his most famous quotes. Khabib commented, “Send me location.”

Also Read: The Great One Falls: The only 4 times Muhammad Ali tasted the canvas in his professional caree

The great striker, who is well-known for his exceptional athleticism, has scored a lot of acrobatic goals throughout his career. The most famous and daring goal by Ibrahimovic was scored in 2012 against England. What’s more impressive is the longevity of his career, he is still competing at the highest level of professional soccer and bagging goals since the late 90s.

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Also Read: Muhammad Ali developed his flamboyant and aggressive personality from this professional wrestler