The white satin boxing trunks worn by Muhammad Ali in the epic Thrilla in Manila bout with Joe Frazier go under the hammer next week — expected to fetch upwards of NZD$10 million.
Universally regarded as one of the best and most brutal fights in boxing history, the 1975 match in the Philippine capital was the culmination of a three-bout rivalry between Ali and Frazier.
Ali retained the heavyweight crown when Frazier's trainer would not allow him to answer the bell in the 15th round.
The trunks, featuring a black trim at the waistband and black piping down each leg, are inscribed by Ali's assistant trainer and corner man Drew "Bundini" Brown and signed by Ali himself in sharpie.
Drew Brown's estate initially auctioned the trunks for around NZD$1600 in 1998.
They have since made their way through the auction market, last selling for nearly NZD$250,000 in 2012.
Ali said the fight, perhaps the most trying in his career, was the "closest thing to dyin' that I know of".
One of the best-known figures of the 20th century, Ali was known for his record-setting boxing career, unprecedented flair for showmanship and controversial stands.
He died in June 2016 at the age of 74 of septic shock.
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