Chris Smith, a respected British photographer, elevated sports photography to an art form with his remarkable access to Muhammad Ali. Smith’s images are known for their intimacy and truth—they’re not just about sport, but about the person behind the legend.

Smith approached every session with the goal of revealing character: Ali’s charisma, determination, humor, and humanity. These were not generic sports shots, but carefully considered portraits that caught the champion in rare moments of vulnerability and joy. His candid work blends technical mastery and deep empathy, making his Ali series prized by collectors and art critics alike.

• Artsy: Chris Smith’s Auction Results:
  https://www.artsy.net/artist/chris-smith/auction-results
• Alon Zakaim Fine Art: Chris Smith Collection:
  https://www.alonzakaim.com/search?search=chris+smith&id=24

• Cassius Clay meets The Beatles:
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8kZlSTjMQsM