Muhammad Ali vs. Sonny Liston II: A Controversial Encore

With a new title and a new name, Muhammad Ali wanted to explore his ancestral roots and further assert himself as a devout Muslim. In May 1964, the new champion embarked on his first trip to Africa; he stopped in Ghana, Nigeria, and Egypt, to meet with political leaders, local people, and explore their respective cultures. His arrival in Accra, Ghana was especially well-received when he was greeted by thousands of Ghanaians waving welcome banners and cheering his name. 

On his first full day in Accra, Ali unexpectedly encountered Malcolm X in the lobby of his hotel. Malcolm had recently parted ways with the Nation of Islam, citing Elijah Muhammad's actions as the main reason why. Upon his departure from the Nation of Islam, Malcolm began the spiritual journey to Mecca known as Hajj, which is considered one of the most important life events of Muslims, and his own tour of Africa and the Middle East. Despite their previous relationship of mentor and mentee, Ali's reaction to seeing Malcolm was cold and the interaction was brief. Ali effectively ended their friendship by reiterating his dedication to Elijah Muhammad and the Nation of Islam, a moment he would later recall as one of his life's regrets.

As Ali's trip continued, he boxed a few exhibition matches with his brother, Rahaman Ali, and collected many souvenirs along the way. In the meantime in the United States, sports journalists were wondering if the rumor of a rematch between the new champion and Sonny Liston were true--and whether it would be allowed by the World Boxing Association.