Defensive End Lyle Alzado and Muhammad Ali
Over the weekend, the world lost an icon as boxer Muhammed Ali passed away at the age of 74.
Ali was largely considered the greatest boxer of all time, boasting an impressive 61-5 record while winning three heavyweight titles over the course of his decorated career.
"The People's Champion" defeated some of the best boxers of his day, including Sonny Liston, Joe Frazier and George Foreman, but one of the most interesting bouts of his career occurred against an amateur fighter at Mile High Stadium in Denver, Colo.
The recently-retired Ali went eight rounds with on July 14, 1979? Future Raider Lyle Alzado.
The imposing defensive end wouldn't begin his four-year run in Silver and Black until 1982, but contract disputes with the Denver Broncos inspired Alzado – who was an accomplished amateur boxer – to step back into the ring and take on his idol.
Since it was an exhibition match, no decision was rendered, but the fight between Ali and Alzado served as an interesting note for two men who lived extraordinary lives.
Ali's passing was a shock to the sports world, and in the days after his death, current members of the Raiders took to Twitter to honor the Champion.
