The City of Lewiston will unveil the nation’s first full-body statue of Muhammad Ali’s “Phantom Punch” on Saturday, May 31. 

The statue commemorates the famous moment when Ali knocked down Sonny Liston and famously gestured for Liston to “get up and fight.” But, to local artist Charlie Hewitt “this is more than a tribute to a great athlete — it’s a recognition of resilience, transformation, and dignity” (City of Lewiston). 

The city is still healing from what it calls the “worst mass shooting in Maine” and sees the statue as “a civic statement of pride, resilience, and renewal” (City of Lewiston). 

In 1965, Lewiston stepped up to host the fight after a Boston venue backed out, cementing the city in sporting history. Ali won by knockout in the first round and went on to become a three-time heavyweight champion. 

“Ali is part of our story. This statue honors our roots — immigrant, working class, tough, and our belief that something great can come from even the most unexpected places,” said community leader Tom Platz. 

Sculptor Zenos Frudakis said, “This sculpture reflects Ali’s grace, strength, and moral courage — a man who stood firm in his convictions and inspired the world through his words and actions as much as his fists.” 

The unveiling will take place at the intersection of Main Street and Mill Street in Lewiston on Saturday.