I AM THE GREATEST - Muhammad Ali at The O2 Tickets

On December 5, 2015, the world of theater was transformed into an arena for one of the greatest sporting events in history - Muhammad Ali's "I AM THE GREATEST" at The O2 in London. This unique theatrical experience paid homage to the legendary boxer's life and career, taking audiences on a journey through his rise to fame, his political activism, and his struggle with Parkinson’s disease.

The show was centered around the iconic figure of Ali, with his larger-than-life personality and undeniable charisma captured in a vivid and entertaining way. From the opening moments, the audience was transported back in time to witness Ali's historic 1964 title fight against Sonny Liston, which he famously predicted he would win in seven rounds before going on to deliver a knockout punch in the first round.

Throughout the production, the performer playing Ali delivers rousing speeches and creative sequences that demonstrate the fighter's prowess in and out of the ring. The show also features original footage of Ali in action, as well as interviews with people who knew him best, including his trainer Angelo Dundee and his brother Rahman Ali.

One particularly powerful sequence takes place during Ali's exile from the boxing world after refusing to be drafted to the Vietnam War. He lost his title and was banned from fighting, but he never lost his spirit or his principles. The music and visual effects during this section are breathtaking, leaving the audience in awe of Ali's courage and conviction.

As the show progresses, the themes become more focused on Ali's later years, when his struggles with Parkinson's disease were at their most pronounced. While the disease may have slowed his movements, it never dulled his wit or his determination. These discussions were poignant and emotional, with the performance ending with Ali stating "I am still the greatest", reminding us of his unwavering self-belief.

"I AM THE GREATEST" is a testament to the power of live theater, as it celebrates one of the greatest sportsmen and activists of all time. The production succeeds in capturing Ali's larger-than-life personality and his impact on history. It also reminds us that, although his physical abilities may have declined over the years, Ali remained a formidable and inspiring figure until the very end of his life.

In conclusion, "I AM THE GREATEST" is a dazzling tribute to a true icon, successfully blending theater, music, and archival footage to create an unforgettable spectacle. It captures the essence of Muhammad Ali in a way that no documentary or biopic could match, making this a must-see experience for anyone with even a passing interest in this great man.