Q: Who came up with the idea for the Muhammad Ali Center?
A: Ali's fans have talked for years about a museum to honor his athletic achievements, but it was Ali himself who said he wanted the Ali Center to be more than a museum - he wanted it to be a place where he could share the beliefs and ideals that have guided his life, and to make the world a better place in which to live for generations to come.
"For many years I have dreamed of creating a place to share, teach and inspire people to be their best and to pursue their dreams." - Muhammad Ali
Q. When did the Ali Center officially open?
A: The Muhammad Ali Center held its Grand Opening Gala on November 19, 2005 and opened its doors to the public on November 20, 2005.
Q: Why is the Ali Center located in Louisville, Kentucky?
A: Muhammad Ali was born in Louisville and grew up in the city (his wife, Lonnie, is also a Louisville native). They both wanted to build the Center in their hometown.
Q: How is the Ali Center funded?
A: As a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, the Ali Center relies on a combination of sources to fund its annual operating budget including admissions, retail sales, memberships, and private donations. We depend on the support of people like you to help carry on Muhammad’s legacy and continue his life’s work. If you are interested in supporting the Ali Center’s mission, please click here.
Q: How long did it take to build the Ali Center (from groundbreaking to opening)?
A: There are three components to the construction: the parking garage (owned and operated by the city of Louisville), the Ali Center headquarters, and the city’s Public Plaza. The groundbreaking for the parking garage was in the summer of 2002, construction for the building began in the summer of 2004, and the Ali Center opened in late fall 2005. The city's Public Plaza surrounding the Center was completed in 2008.
Q: I have a piece of Ali memorabilia. Can the Ali Center authenticate it or tell me how much the item is worth?
A: Unfortunately, the Muhammad Ali Center does not have the capabilities to officially authenticate or place a value on Ali memorabilia. For authentication of autographed items and/or evaluation, you may try contacting Sports Placement Services (www.sportsplacement.com).
Q: How do I go about donating/selling an item or piece of memorabilia to the Ali Center?
A: We rarely purchase items/memorabilia for our Library and Archives collections, however, we do accept donations of items. Click here for more information about donating an item or memorabilia to our non-circulating Library and Archives.
Q: How do I share a story or memory about Muhammad?
A: If you would like to share a fond memory or story about how Muhammad Ali has influenced your life or your chance encounter with the Champ, please click here. Your submissions will be added to the collection of materials as part of the Ali Center’s Library and Archives.