The Mavericks

A guide through a gallery of top level racers who have provided some of the most memorable thrills and spills.

The third programme, The Boxing Mavericks, explores a unique sport filled with characters. First up is Muhammad Ali, a man who TV presenter Jim Rosenthal describes as, ‘The greatest, the original, the ultimate maverick.' With his famously outspoken public comments and his fluidity in the ring, the man formerly known as Cassius Clay became a favourite with fans and the media. Barry McGuigan says: "Ali was the first guy that brought poetry and artistry to the heavyweight division. He was incredibly articulate, incredibly charismatic, he was a beautiful looking man, he had skill, he had balance. He wasn't a particularly devastating puncher, but he had poise. He could move like a lightweight. He could hit you five times before you knew it."