Did Joe Louis and Muhammed Ali ever voice their opinions of each other?

Question

The two champions seemed complete opposites personality wise as well as decisions made. Ali admitted that Sugar Ray Robinson was the best boxer of all time but he always told everyone that he (Muhammed Ali) was the greatest HEAVYWEIGHT boxer of all time. Since Louis was alive up until 1981 I was curious if they showed each other respect or if they ever disrespected each other.

Answer 1

I do know that Louis had this to say about Ali in his own autobiography named "Joe Louis: My Life"

    

        Ã¢Â€ÂœAli’s a great fighter, (but) he made too many mistakes, his hands are down a lot, and he takes too many punches to the body. I know what I’m talking about.”

i have the book it's on page 260. i also know that Ali had mixed feelings about Joe Louis but i honestly dont know any quotes on what he actually said about him.

Answer 2

my grandfather told me that Ali once called Joe Louis an "uncle tom".  i don't know if Louis ever voiced his opinion of Ali publicly.

Answer 3

Yes Sir they did, it was basically Joe Louis who said "Ali can do or say whatever he wants. I think he is wrong for not doing what his country has asked of him" This obviously was after Ali's refusal into the Armed Forces of the United States of America.

Answer 4

Yes.  Joe Louis did say he could beat Ali.  He belittled Ali's punching power.  He said Ali could not fight off the ropes where he'd be if he'd fought with Louis, and that Ali would be reeling in pain from all the body shots he'd inflict on him.  Louis also criticized Ali for his Muslim religion and his association with black Muslims, saying it's not good for the sport.  Of course Ali didn't like what Louis said and, sure enough, bragged about his speed and how Joe couldn't touch him, etc. etc.  Ali never forgot and never forgave Louis' for his negative comments.  But later on, when Louis was broke and ill,  Ali changed his stance on the Brown Bomber, pouring praises on the former champion and even giving him large amounts of cash.