Largest Statue of Muhammad Ali in the World Just Erected in this Maine City

A 10-foot bronze statue of boxing legend Muhammad Ali—the largest in the world—was unveiled Saturday, May 31, in downtown Lewiston, Maine.

What is Muhammad Ali's tie to Lewiston, Maine?

The site of the famous 1965 rematch between Ali and Sonny Liston was in Lewiston!

The statue's unveiling was attended by tons of community members, city officials, organizers, as well as Governor Janet Mills.

The statue was created by a Philadelphia sculptor Zenos Frudakis who is known as "The monument man".

What is the significance of the timing of this Muhammad Ali statue?

This statue commemorates not only the anniversary of the historic fight but also stands as a symbol of resilience for a city still recovering from the 2023 mass shooting that killed 18 people.

The sculptor said:

“This sculpture reflects Ali’s grace, strength, and moral courage. He was a true original—a man who stood firm in his convictions and inspired the world through his words and actions as much as his fists.”

The statue is installed at the entrance to Bates Mill No. 5 at 10 Mill St., near the Androscoggin River’s Auburn Bridge, where more than 32,000 vehicles pass daily, so it will be getting lots of attention!

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Lewiston artist Charlie Hewitt, who co-initiated the project with architect and developer Tom Platz, emphasized the monument’s symbol of resilience, transformation, and dignity.

Hewitt said:

"Ali didn’t win every round but he got up and fought every round — and that’s how he became arguably the best athlete of the 20th century. The people of Lewiston get up every morning and fight every round for their families and their communities. They will not be knocked down. That is what we celebrate."

Platz, who attended the 1965 fight as a seventh grader, spearheaded the fundraising efforts through private donations.”

Mills reflected on Ali’s timeless message.

“When Ali stood over Sonny Liston yelling ‘Get up and fight,’ he wasn’t just talking to his opponent. He was speaking to all of us. And that’s what Maine and Lewiston have done—we get up and fight. We'll never get knocked out. We'll never get knocked down. We're still getting up and fighting every day. This is a city that is strong, loud and proud in a state that is strong, loud and proud.”

Frudakis said he hopes the sculpture serves as a lasting inspiration.

Was there controversy around the Muhammad Ali 1965 match?

There sure was! The Ali-Liston rematch remains one of the most debated and enduring moments in boxing history. The original bout was relocated to Lewiston after Boston withdrew due to security threats. In just 17 days, local promoter Sam Michael transformed the Central Maine Youth Center (now The Colisée) into a boxing venue, bringing the world’s attention to this mill town for one unforgettable night, and forever linking the city to a global sports icon.