Muhammad Ali’s grandson eyeing new world title rise after link up with Terence Crawford trainer

Nico Ali Walsh believes he still has the quality to reach world level after a turbulent time as a pro so far.

Ali Walsh had a bright start to life in the paid ranks, putting together eight straight victories, with much hype around his name.

Ryan Hafey/PBC

But after two narrow defeats to Sona Akale and Juan Carlos Gerra, question marks have been put around how far Ali Walsh can go.

After a victory in his last event on an IBA card in December, Walsh is looking to turn over a new leaf.

He has now linked up with trainer of retired boxing legend Terence Crawford, Brian ‘Bomac’ McIntyre.

McIntyre has been known to get the best out of fighters, and Ali Walsh is full of ambition.

He said of the link-up: “It’s almost like going to school.

“I graduated from UNLV [University of Nevada, Las Vegas] with a business degree, so I’m used to just school, I’m used to homework.

“Bomac gives me homework. So it feels like school, and I’m learning every day.”

Ali Walsh feels destined for world honours

It has been a tough battle for Ali Walsh inside and outside of the ring, to defend his grandfather’s honour.

He has also been furiously campaigning to retain the Ali act, with the threat of Dana White and Zuffa Boxing looming over the traditional fabrics of the sport.

But despite not fighting in 2026 and having no concrete option next, things are moving in the right direction.

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And he still believes he will fight for world titles, and live up to the potential he has set himself.

He continued: “From the start of my career, I’ve proven people wrong.

“What only matters to me is I’m proving myself right. I know what I have in me.

“I’ve already seen the path in my head, these stories don’t come without the set backs.

“I want to rise to the top and then these stories can be told.”

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