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Blood Brothers: The Fatal Friendship Between Muhammad Ali and Malcolm X
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite History & Biography (2016)An “engrossing and important book" ( Wall Street Journal ) that brings to life the fateful friendship between Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali
In 1962, boxing writers and fans considered Cassius Clay an obnoxious self-promoter, and few believed that he would become the heavyweight champion of the world. But Malcolm X, the most famous minister in the Nation of Islam, saw the potential in Clay, not just for boxing greatness, but as a means of spreading the Nation’s message. The two became fast friends, keeping their interactions secret from the press for fear of jeopardizing Clay’s career. Clay began living a double life—a patriotic “good negro” in public, and a radical reformer behind the scenes. Soon, however, their friendship would sour, with disastrous and far-reaching consequences.
Based on previously untapped sources, from Malcolm’s personal papers to FBI records, Blood Brothers is the first book to offer an in-depth portrait of this complex bond. An extraordinary narrative of love and deep affection, as well as deceit, betrayal, and violence, this story is a window into the public and private lives of two of our greatest national icons, and the tumultuous period in American history that they helped to shape.
In 1962, boxing writers and fans considered Cassius Clay an obnoxious self-promoter, and few believed that he would become the heavyweight champion of the world. But Malcolm X, the most famous minister in the Nation of Islam, saw the potential in Clay, not just for boxing greatness, but as a means of spreading the Nation’s message. The two became fast friends, keeping their interactions secret from the press for fear of jeopardizing Clay’s career. Clay began living a double life—a patriotic “good negro” in public, and a radical reformer behind the scenes. Soon, however, their friendship would sour, with disastrous and far-reaching consequences.
Based on previously untapped sources, from Malcolm’s personal papers to FBI records, Blood Brothers is the first book to offer an in-depth portrait of this complex bond. An extraordinary narrative of love and deep affection, as well as deceit, betrayal, and violence, this story is a window into the public and private lives of two of our greatest national icons, and the tumultuous period in American history that they helped to shape.
400 pages, Paperback
First published February 2, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
August 27, 2022
It can be tough to find new ways to tell a story, especially if the subjects are two of the most chronicled historical figures in the 20th century. Blood Brothers attempts to uncover more about the relationship between Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali. Much of the book is speculatory based upon extrapolations of things that happened in history. The authors had no inside access to either man and much of what they wrote is based upon public interviews and information. This is not to say that it is not well researched or inaccurate. It is to say simply that when relying upon historical accounts, any conclusions are based upon how history is recorded. Then how the authors interpret the actions of the subjects based upon the recorded history. It happens all the time and the most successful biographers are the ones that either convince the reader that there was no substantial bias in the writing or that the author's view of history is likely true. To be fair, I've read excellent books about both Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali and I intend to read more. Both men are fascinating and, in my view, very influential in revealing the treatment of Black people and fighting for equality and civil rights. Both men are extremely important in American history. There were some aspects of Roberts characterization of both men that bugged me a little. They have Malcolm X as the master manipulator who leveraged Ali's burgeoning popularity initially for the Nation of Islam (NOI) then for his own protection and Ali as a naïve kid who at first revered Malcolm X then Elijah Muhammad and then feared he would be killed by NOI. It ends at the end of the Sonny Liston fight, very early in Ali's life. Malcom X had been assassinated. My sense is that the authors' interpretation of Malcom X was a little uncharitable and that they attributed some characteristics to Ali that perhaps he gained later in his life/career. Overall very interesting, but slightly off.
3.5 Stars Rounded Up
Listened to the audiobook. David Drummond did an adequate performance with the narration. I was never bored; nor was I completely immersed in the book.
3.5 Stars Rounded Up
Listened to the audiobook. David Drummond did an adequate performance with the narration. I was never bored; nor was I completely immersed in the book.
September 22, 2016
Although I've read much about Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali hasn't really been on my radar. I've never been a summer Olympics fan, nor a boxing fan. I remembered Ali as a loud-mouth boaster, another thing I'm not found of. After reading Blood Brothers, I perhaps have a bit better insight into the minds of both men; I say a "bit" because I'm becoming more and more convinced of the inability of white Americans to write about the experiences of black Americans, no matter how much they have studied, or how many degrees they have.
Roberts' description of Ali only confused me because it ran the scale from intelligent enough to put on a show in order to save a sport seemingly well on its way out for good in the US, to dull and slow enough to have been a sucker for the exploitation of Elijah Muhammad. Maybe this is simply a reflection of Ali's truly complicated personality.
I enjoyed hearing more about Malcolm X who no one can accuse of being slow or a clown act. This man took it upon himself to learn, and to use that information to grow. That is a rare and beautiful quality in a man.
In spite of my reservations, above, I could not put the book down. The relationship between Ali and Malcolm was beautiful and tragic at the same time. They showed great love and respect, yet Ali's great success overwhelmed the relationship, sadly making him a great public relations tool for both Malcolm X and Elijah Muhammad.
I cannot judge any of these men; the era was both violent and exciting at the same time...a place in our history when blacks were just beginning to express the thought that black lives matter. I don't doubt that each of them acted with the conviction that it was not about individuals and that sacrifices needed to be made in the name of the fight. Each man knew what was needed, and did his part.
Roberts' description of Ali only confused me because it ran the scale from intelligent enough to put on a show in order to save a sport seemingly well on its way out for good in the US, to dull and slow enough to have been a sucker for the exploitation of Elijah Muhammad. Maybe this is simply a reflection of Ali's truly complicated personality.
I enjoyed hearing more about Malcolm X who no one can accuse of being slow or a clown act. This man took it upon himself to learn, and to use that information to grow. That is a rare and beautiful quality in a man.
In spite of my reservations, above, I could not put the book down. The relationship between Ali and Malcolm was beautiful and tragic at the same time. They showed great love and respect, yet Ali's great success overwhelmed the relationship, sadly making him a great public relations tool for both Malcolm X and Elijah Muhammad.
I cannot judge any of these men; the era was both violent and exciting at the same time...a place in our history when blacks were just beginning to express the thought that black lives matter. I don't doubt that each of them acted with the conviction that it was not about individuals and that sacrifices needed to be made in the name of the fight. Each man knew what was needed, and did his part.
December 21, 2021
I really wanted to enjoy this...I thought this would be more about their friendship ....but, it wasn't...this was simply about a lot of conjecture and the story talked a lot about other boxers that I was unfamiliar with. Not sure where these authors received their information or how the two of them researched for this story. They spoke A LOT about private conversations...and my question is these conversation happened during the late 1950's and early 1960's...who was their source? How did these two authors have information from the Nation of Islam and the Fruit of Islam (FOI)?
November 26, 2017
You’d be hard pressed to write a dual biography of two more polarizing figures during their lives than Malcom X and Muhammad Ali. In Blood Brothers, Randy Roberts for the most part restricts himself to the short window of time where the two men became friends, religious brethren in the Nation of Islam, and later after a falling out, enemies. It’s a highly compelling narrative at the forces that brought them together and later drove an irreparable wedge between them.
It’s also a story where neither Ali or Malcolm are depicted as saints. Both men were undoubtedly good men who believed they were doing what was right for themselves and for black people in general. Yet this didn’t stop either man from manipulating their relationship to serve their own ends. For Malcolm in the immediate aftermath of his expulsion from the Nation of Islam, he saw his friendship with Ali as a chip he could cash in to perhaps return to the good graces of the Nation of Islam by delivering him to Elijah Muhammad. For Ali, repeating the Nation’s violent rhetoric about Malcolm deserving to die, was a way to establish his loyalty by casting aside his friendship with Malcolm. These were not the shining moments of either of these men’s lives.
And yet they are ultimately tragic figures who were caught up in the petty jealousies and paranoia of Elijah Muhammad as well as the racism and surveillance of the FBI that sought to destroy them both.
I put down this book, as I often do with books about the 1960’s, and wondered…what if?
What if Malcolm hadn’t been assassinated that day in the Audubon ballroom? He was at the time creating a pan-african, multi-racial organization that would’ve been one of the more dynamic groups of it’s time. Had he lived, would he even have joined up with Martin Luther King who despite his formerly harsh rhetoric toward him, seemed to be warming to him?
What if Ali had left the Nation of Islam at the same time Malcolm had? Malcolm certainly tried to bring Ali along. Out of self interest to be sure, but Malcolm also had a genuine affection for Ali and wanted him to see where the Nation had gone wrong.
Would an Ali aligned with Malcom X have prevented or at least delayed the death sentence put on Malcolm? Would Ali have gone to Vietnam to do a short tour (Ali reportedly was told by the Nation that he was forbidden to serve in Vietnam and if he did he was as good as dead) and thus never been stripped of his livelihood for 3 long years?
We will never know the answers to these questions, however what we do know, and what we learn from this book is that whether the time alloted to their lives on earth was long or short, both men used every moment of it to the fullest to try to make other peoples lives better. While their friendship was brief, it was one of genuine love that both men were unwilling to, but were forced by circumstance, to sever.
It’s also a story where neither Ali or Malcolm are depicted as saints. Both men were undoubtedly good men who believed they were doing what was right for themselves and for black people in general. Yet this didn’t stop either man from manipulating their relationship to serve their own ends. For Malcolm in the immediate aftermath of his expulsion from the Nation of Islam, he saw his friendship with Ali as a chip he could cash in to perhaps return to the good graces of the Nation of Islam by delivering him to Elijah Muhammad. For Ali, repeating the Nation’s violent rhetoric about Malcolm deserving to die, was a way to establish his loyalty by casting aside his friendship with Malcolm. These were not the shining moments of either of these men’s lives.
And yet they are ultimately tragic figures who were caught up in the petty jealousies and paranoia of Elijah Muhammad as well as the racism and surveillance of the FBI that sought to destroy them both.
I put down this book, as I often do with books about the 1960’s, and wondered…what if?
What if Malcolm hadn’t been assassinated that day in the Audubon ballroom? He was at the time creating a pan-african, multi-racial organization that would’ve been one of the more dynamic groups of it’s time. Had he lived, would he even have joined up with Martin Luther King who despite his formerly harsh rhetoric toward him, seemed to be warming to him?
What if Ali had left the Nation of Islam at the same time Malcolm had? Malcolm certainly tried to bring Ali along. Out of self interest to be sure, but Malcolm also had a genuine affection for Ali and wanted him to see where the Nation had gone wrong.
Would an Ali aligned with Malcom X have prevented or at least delayed the death sentence put on Malcolm? Would Ali have gone to Vietnam to do a short tour (Ali reportedly was told by the Nation that he was forbidden to serve in Vietnam and if he did he was as good as dead) and thus never been stripped of his livelihood for 3 long years?
We will never know the answers to these questions, however what we do know, and what we learn from this book is that whether the time alloted to their lives on earth was long or short, both men used every moment of it to the fullest to try to make other peoples lives better. While their friendship was brief, it was one of genuine love that both men were unwilling to, but were forced by circumstance, to sever.
June 23, 2017
I've never been a fan of boxing and I'm no expert on the Civil Rights era, but this was a very compelling read. Malcolm X was a minister for the Nation of Islam (NOI) and basically a black supremacist. Cassius Clay was a talented young boxer with a big mouth and a gift for self-promotion. Their unlikely friendship, however, had dangerous results for both of them.
Malcolm X disagreed with the non-confrontational and patient "we shall overcome" approach of Martin Luther King, advocating instead for violent means if necessary to secure respect and rights for blacks. He became a rising star in the NOI and was known as "The Messenger" for Elijah Muhammad, the frail but self-proclaimed prophet Muhammad, for his fierce loyalty and captivating speaking ability.
Cassius Clay was also a rising star in the boxing world. After winning a gold medal at the Rome Olympics, he commenced a professional boxing career, winning most of his fights by knockout. He adopted an egotistical style of self-promotion but was really a quiet and thoughtful person who strongly believed in clean living and was drawn to the doctrines of the NOI because of his upbringing and the friendship with Malcolm X.
At the time Clay defeated Sonny Liston for the heavyweight title, Malcolm's standing in the NOI was declining. He was bothered by the passive stand the NOI took on black rights, but he'd also learned of Elijah Muhammad's many infidelities and was bothered by the NOI's exploitation of poor blacks. Clay, however, became caught in the middle between Malcolm and Elijah, and when Malcolm was ousted from the movement, Elijah pulled Clay in closer and gave him a new name: Muhammed Ali.
This is a fascinating look at the lives of both men and their relationship with the NOI - a relationship that eventually cost Malcolm X his life. I remember watching part of the fights against Leon Spinks as a kid in 1978, but knew nothing of his highly controversial past. I knew even less about Malcolm X, and was surprised at his extreme racism prior to his split with the NOI. (Honestly, neither of the men came off as likable, but the authors really illustrate the reasons behind their views and I felt I understood why they felt the way they did.) But this was an interesting book, and sometimes I could hardly put it down. (I received an advance copy from Amazon Vine.)
Malcolm X disagreed with the non-confrontational and patient "we shall overcome" approach of Martin Luther King, advocating instead for violent means if necessary to secure respect and rights for blacks. He became a rising star in the NOI and was known as "The Messenger" for Elijah Muhammad, the frail but self-proclaimed prophet Muhammad, for his fierce loyalty and captivating speaking ability.
Cassius Clay was also a rising star in the boxing world. After winning a gold medal at the Rome Olympics, he commenced a professional boxing career, winning most of his fights by knockout. He adopted an egotistical style of self-promotion but was really a quiet and thoughtful person who strongly believed in clean living and was drawn to the doctrines of the NOI because of his upbringing and the friendship with Malcolm X.
At the time Clay defeated Sonny Liston for the heavyweight title, Malcolm's standing in the NOI was declining. He was bothered by the passive stand the NOI took on black rights, but he'd also learned of Elijah Muhammad's many infidelities and was bothered by the NOI's exploitation of poor blacks. Clay, however, became caught in the middle between Malcolm and Elijah, and when Malcolm was ousted from the movement, Elijah pulled Clay in closer and gave him a new name: Muhammed Ali.
This is a fascinating look at the lives of both men and their relationship with the NOI - a relationship that eventually cost Malcolm X his life. I remember watching part of the fights against Leon Spinks as a kid in 1978, but knew nothing of his highly controversial past. I knew even less about Malcolm X, and was surprised at his extreme racism prior to his split with the NOI. (Honestly, neither of the men came off as likable, but the authors really illustrate the reasons behind their views and I felt I understood why they felt the way they did.) But this was an interesting book, and sometimes I could hardly put it down. (I received an advance copy from Amazon Vine.)
March 23, 2016
This is a classic story about a revolution in American sports. It's about how young Cassius Clay became Mohammed Ali and completely changed how America looked at black men and black athletes in particular.
But this is more than just an important story about race. These two authors have created a literary work that approaches the level of tragedy. As I was reading about Malcolm X and Elijah Muhammed, and later about Malcolm and young Cassius Clay, I kept seeing parallels to classic literature. The same story seems to come up in every age. In the Old Testament there's the story of David's son Absalom, the favorite "without a blemish on his body." (pretty young Cassius Clay would have been perfect as Absalom.) Then there's the novel by William Faulkner, Absalom, Absalom, about the man who "wanted sons and had too many." There's even a few echoes of Shakespeare's Henry IV, Part One and Part Two, with the carefree young prince being educated in the rougher side of life by a fascinating older man he loves but must eventually destroy.
Leaving all that aside, I was shocked by the realism of the story too. I never realized how many of Cassius Clay's worst enemies were sportswriters. It made me so mad to hear what a bully boy and bigot like Jimmy Cannon had to say about the young champ. Not so much because his racism surprised me, but because this is one of the crew of old timers that David Halberstam sentimentalized to the point of sainthood in his highly overrated SUMMER OF 49. Makes you wonder where David Halberstam really stood on Civil Rights!
Of course, there is a darker side to Muhammad Ali's view of race as well. The authors keep quoting him quoting Black Muslim doctrine, i.e. blacks should avoid whites and stick together. And Ali became a hero to people of color worldwide. But for a man who put his life on the line to help black people, Ali certainly spent a lot of time beating up black men. And not just beating them up in the ring, but mocking them, humiliating them, belittling them in public, etc. It seems there were certain kinds of black men young Cassius Clay really hated. Older men who reminded him of his father? The authors never comment. But it's a classic book!
But this is more than just an important story about race. These two authors have created a literary work that approaches the level of tragedy. As I was reading about Malcolm X and Elijah Muhammed, and later about Malcolm and young Cassius Clay, I kept seeing parallels to classic literature. The same story seems to come up in every age. In the Old Testament there's the story of David's son Absalom, the favorite "without a blemish on his body." (pretty young Cassius Clay would have been perfect as Absalom.) Then there's the novel by William Faulkner, Absalom, Absalom, about the man who "wanted sons and had too many." There's even a few echoes of Shakespeare's Henry IV, Part One and Part Two, with the carefree young prince being educated in the rougher side of life by a fascinating older man he loves but must eventually destroy.
Leaving all that aside, I was shocked by the realism of the story too. I never realized how many of Cassius Clay's worst enemies were sportswriters. It made me so mad to hear what a bully boy and bigot like Jimmy Cannon had to say about the young champ. Not so much because his racism surprised me, but because this is one of the crew of old timers that David Halberstam sentimentalized to the point of sainthood in his highly overrated SUMMER OF 49. Makes you wonder where David Halberstam really stood on Civil Rights!
Of course, there is a darker side to Muhammad Ali's view of race as well. The authors keep quoting him quoting Black Muslim doctrine, i.e. blacks should avoid whites and stick together. And Ali became a hero to people of color worldwide. But for a man who put his life on the line to help black people, Ali certainly spent a lot of time beating up black men. And not just beating them up in the ring, but mocking them, humiliating them, belittling them in public, etc. It seems there were certain kinds of black men young Cassius Clay really hated. Older men who reminded him of his father? The authors never comment. But it's a classic book!
September 29, 2016
Someone once said words to the effect of "Show me someone with heroes, and I'll show you someone in the third grade." That's a bit harsh, but there's more than a kernel of truth to the statement.
For the last thirty years or so (since pugilistic dementia/Parkinson's had him in its grip), Muhammad Ali's handlers have been speaking for him. Randy Roberts and his co-author take us back to a time when Ali could speak for himself, and, more importantly, act for himself. Ali, like any other man saddled with the label of "greatness" didn't always act like a great or even a good guy.
The book does a good job of chronicling the two separate lives of men born Cassius Clay and Malcolm Little, respectively. The work charts, in strong journalistic fashion, the rise of one man through the ranks of the heavyweight boxing circuit, and the course of another man through the echelons of the Nation of Islam.
At a certain point in the book, Malcolm X discovers that the man he worshiped and obeyed, Elijah Muhammad, was a serial adulterer, embezzler, and all around conman. It was at this point that X's life was in danger, and also at this juncture that Muhammad Ali was forced to choose between the Nation and Malcolm. He chose the former, and (the author argues credibly) helped seal the fate of his one-time friend and mentor, who was gunned down in the Audubon Ballroom in Harlem shortly after Ali defected from his friend's side.
There are no heroes in this book, and the honor of now-canonized figures is even challenged at points. Malcolm used Muhammad to a certain extent, just as callously as perhaps Ali threw his old blood brother under the bus.
I came away from this book with a better understanding of the black nationalist history of the turbulent 1960s, as well as with a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. The book is good, but it's not necessarily the kind of thing you want to read in the wake of Ali's death. Recommended, although be prepared to lose a little more faith in the American project and humanity in general.
For the last thirty years or so (since pugilistic dementia/Parkinson's had him in its grip), Muhammad Ali's handlers have been speaking for him. Randy Roberts and his co-author take us back to a time when Ali could speak for himself, and, more importantly, act for himself. Ali, like any other man saddled with the label of "greatness" didn't always act like a great or even a good guy.
The book does a good job of chronicling the two separate lives of men born Cassius Clay and Malcolm Little, respectively. The work charts, in strong journalistic fashion, the rise of one man through the ranks of the heavyweight boxing circuit, and the course of another man through the echelons of the Nation of Islam.
At a certain point in the book, Malcolm X discovers that the man he worshiped and obeyed, Elijah Muhammad, was a serial adulterer, embezzler, and all around conman. It was at this point that X's life was in danger, and also at this juncture that Muhammad Ali was forced to choose between the Nation and Malcolm. He chose the former, and (the author argues credibly) helped seal the fate of his one-time friend and mentor, who was gunned down in the Audubon Ballroom in Harlem shortly after Ali defected from his friend's side.
There are no heroes in this book, and the honor of now-canonized figures is even challenged at points. Malcolm used Muhammad to a certain extent, just as callously as perhaps Ali threw his old blood brother under the bus.
I came away from this book with a better understanding of the black nationalist history of the turbulent 1960s, as well as with a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. The book is good, but it's not necessarily the kind of thing you want to read in the wake of Ali's death. Recommended, although be prepared to lose a little more faith in the American project and humanity in general.
August 20, 2016
(2) Many years ago, I read the wonderful Alex Haley book, "the Autobiography of Malcolm X." This book recounts a great deal of that information but offers more as well. Some of the new insight into the career of Muhammad Ali and his involvement with the Black Muslim movement seems more pertinent due to his recent death. A political book, a sports book, a modern history book as well, this has its very interesting moments and some pretty slow ones as well. A nice trip back to my teens in the 60's.
June 23, 2025
4.5 stars
2025 library summer reading challenge - Orange - Select a non-fiction book
2025 library summer reading challenge - Orange - Select a non-fiction book
June 13, 2016
I picked this up in the wake of Ali's death; so many great writers spoke of the complexities of Ali's life likely to be glossed over in the deluge of encomiums which follow the death of someone so great. Such is the case with almost any person. This phenomenon is even more pronounced when the deceased is the often proclaimed Greatest of All Time.
One of these complexities was Ali's relationship to Malcolm X. This book explores that relationship is tremendously compelling detail. Without revealing any "spoilers," it's difficult for me to sit here, in 2016, and listen to all the praise heaped upon Ali without wondering where the censure is for his treatment of Malcolm before his assassination. History is also clearer from the safe distance of the present, and so is the morality and consequence of the choices we make. And Ali was certainly, without question, a transcendent talent and superstar. He displayed courage both in and out of the ring. But this book provides an indispensable perspective which must be included in the discussion. Ali's relationship with Malcolm, Elijah Muhammad and the Nation of Islam reminds us that people are always more complicated than they seem.
One of these complexities was Ali's relationship to Malcolm X. This book explores that relationship is tremendously compelling detail. Without revealing any "spoilers," it's difficult for me to sit here, in 2016, and listen to all the praise heaped upon Ali without wondering where the censure is for his treatment of Malcolm before his assassination. History is also clearer from the safe distance of the present, and so is the morality and consequence of the choices we make. And Ali was certainly, without question, a transcendent talent and superstar. He displayed courage both in and out of the ring. But this book provides an indispensable perspective which must be included in the discussion. Ali's relationship with Malcolm, Elijah Muhammad and the Nation of Islam reminds us that people are always more complicated than they seem.
February 26, 2016
well written and engaging ... it's a one-of-a-kind story, two fascinating people whose lives intersect at the definitive moment ... in telling of their encounter, instead of full-blown biographies of the two, the author creates a fast-paced and gripping moment in time ... well played
January 28, 2018
Great book about two historic and mysterious guys. Didn't know much about them, about Nation of Islam and the life in sixties in the U.S. where black people were truely repressed. U.S. has gone a long way since then. It was a really interesting reading, kind of a history book in its own way.
April 5, 2025
Quite an enjoyable read, but that's probably because of my interest in Malcolm X. Although the book seems to be mainly about Malcolm's relationship with Muhammad Ali and their lives together, it felt more like I was learning more and more about their own personal situation in contrast to the other. Not necessarily a lot about them two together. Partly disappointing, but it could also be due to the lack of time they spent together / lack of information to be found about the two together. Regardless, it was a great read. Learned a lot about Muhammad Ali, refreshed some things about Malcolm X and also learned some new insights regarding their relationship with Elijah Muhammad. Again confirmed my previous thoughts about the Nation of Islam and how ridiculous of a cult it was/is. Sad things had to go that way for both the boxer and the activist.
What intruiged me a lot were the small references to the FBI's involvement in Malcolm's upcoming (but also that of the Nation of Islam) and their open proclamation of the "white devils". INSANE how some of these dudes legit believed that all white people were the devils and at some point a space ship would come to earth to restore order. I guess a lot of psychology comes into play as to why someone would get involved in a cult like that and start to proclaim and believe the very same principles that someone else would consider out of the order.
I really find it disappointing to be reminded of the fact that a lot of Malcom's downfall and his lack of bond with Muhammad Ali was a result of the Nation of Islam and Elijah Muhammad. It keeps me wondering how things would've looked like if he was able to separate peacefully (or become an activist without the help of Elijah). I guess I'll find out a lot more about the details in this next book, but for now this was an enjoyable read, nice little refreshment of some things I already knew about "Detroit Red" and I guess it's on to the next on my search to find out why I am so fascinated about this dude.
What intruiged me a lot were the small references to the FBI's involvement in Malcolm's upcoming (but also that of the Nation of Islam) and their open proclamation of the "white devils". INSANE how some of these dudes legit believed that all white people were the devils and at some point a space ship would come to earth to restore order. I guess a lot of psychology comes into play as to why someone would get involved in a cult like that and start to proclaim and believe the very same principles that someone else would consider out of the order.
I really find it disappointing to be reminded of the fact that a lot of Malcom's downfall and his lack of bond with Muhammad Ali was a result of the Nation of Islam and Elijah Muhammad. It keeps me wondering how things would've looked like if he was able to separate peacefully (or become an activist without the help of Elijah). I guess I'll find out a lot more about the details in this next book, but for now this was an enjoyable read, nice little refreshment of some things I already knew about "Detroit Red" and I guess it's on to the next on my search to find out why I am so fascinated about this dude.
May 17, 2020
I have recently read about the interesting relationship between Malcolm X and Dr.Martin Luther King, Jr. and so the mighty good reads algorithm suggested that I read this. Muhammad Ali and Malcolm X are household names - especially in the Muslim community. I knew the two were friends, for a period, but I was interested in what soured this friendship - and the blurb suggested this book would answer that.
Malcolm and Ali were brought together by the Nation of Islam and immediately created a strong, brotherly bond. All was going well until Malcolm became exposed to the real Elijah Muhammad - the leader of the Nation of Islam. There were very strong rumours that he was engaged in the very sin he publicly condemned, adultery. Malcolm suggested to Elijah that they address the rumours but was relieved of his ministerial duties; effectively the Nation of Islam had disowned him. Malcolm tried using his friendship with Ali could to bring him back in to the Nations fold, but this was unsuccessful.
This book intimately explores the friendship of two of Americas most popular figures. I was impressed with Roberts' approach - focusing on how the two became friends and what forced them apart. Ultimately what had bought them together, the Nation of Islam, destroyed their friendship, and lead to the assassination of Malcolm.
Malcolm and Ali were brought together by the Nation of Islam and immediately created a strong, brotherly bond. All was going well until Malcolm became exposed to the real Elijah Muhammad - the leader of the Nation of Islam. There were very strong rumours that he was engaged in the very sin he publicly condemned, adultery. Malcolm suggested to Elijah that they address the rumours but was relieved of his ministerial duties; effectively the Nation of Islam had disowned him. Malcolm tried using his friendship with Ali could to bring him back in to the Nations fold, but this was unsuccessful.
This book intimately explores the friendship of two of Americas most popular figures. I was impressed with Roberts' approach - focusing on how the two became friends and what forced them apart. Ultimately what had bought them together, the Nation of Islam, destroyed their friendship, and lead to the assassination of Malcolm.
February 26, 2025
This book was thoroughly researched. Book club participants agreed they learned there was more to Muhammad Ali and Malcolm X than what you heard about in the media.
July 13, 2016
Blood Brothers narrates the tragic real life story of a beautiful friendship blossomed and then cut short because of one sorry religious lie. Two icons of an era- one a leading and powerful voice in the civil rights movement of the late 50s and early 60s, the other the greatest sports figure and also a powerful voice for civil rights during the same time- saw their paths crossed, united and violently rent assunder under the powerful but shady banner of the Nation of Islam.
The book plunges us into a delightful journey in which we see a young Cassius Clay turn into the infamous Louisville Lip. The Kentucky native assumed an outlandishly vocal personality, all part of his plan to get into Sonny Liston's head. Liston was to that point the uncontested boxing heaveweight champion of the world and the only obstacle between him that the champion's belt. In the end, it wasn't his brazen mouth that helped Clay win the title. Clay won his first fight against Liston fair and square by outboxing him at every level and in every round of the match. When Liston didn't come out on the seventh round it was clear that the new champ had "shook up the world." The rest as they say is history.
"Float like a butterfly. Sting like a bee. Aaaahh! Rumble, young man, rumble! Aaaahh!"
The authors of Blood Brothers superbly use new research and recently unearthed documents about Malcom X, demythologizing some assumed notions about the storied history of the Muslim preacher. Malcolm was extremely articulate and smart, an able debater and defender of the faith according to the Honorable Elijah Muhammad and his cultic Nation of Islam. Yet, once Malcolm severed ties with the NOI he became expendable to them. His confrontational and fearless approach in denouncing the NOI's abuse of power and exploitation of people, particularly women, at the highest levels of the Muslim cult ultimately cost him his life in what was a vicious public murder at the hands of NOI's assasins.
Shortly before his death, Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali, his given name as a convert of the NOI, had severed ties, mainly due to the first's fierce accusations of corruption regarding the NOI. Ali would admit years later his regret in disavowing Malcolm, whom he considered in hindsight his true friend and brother. He came to recognize that Malcolm had been right all along in his critique of the leader of the NOI at the time, Elijah Muhammad, and that it was a mix of fear and the naive zeal of a young convert that drove him to close ranks with the NOI instead of Malcolm. This was extremely painful to Malcolm, who claimed throughout that the Champ was being manipulated by powerful elements within the NOI.
I wonder what could have happened if Malcolm had not died in 1965 but had been given the chance to live a much longer life. What kind of synergy for the greater good would we had been able to witness had this friendship been reconciled and continued to blossom thereafter? Malcolm loved Ali. Ali loved Malcolm. This is the testament that Blood Brothers puts forth and no one today can deny it. Destiny brought them together. Sadly, there are sometimes greater forces of evil and falsehood hard at work in order to ruin what could have otherwise been a blessing for the world.
The brief moment in time that these two towering figures coincided is loaded with powerful history. The power of religion to shape the mind of a people, the influence of a sport like boxing as a vehicle to achieve greater ends in benefit of those who are oppresed, the skillful use of the spoken word to denounce the injustices of the day against not only the American black man but people oppressed everywhere, the grip of conviction even to the point of losing it all, one's life included, these and much more make the gift titled Blood Brothers a rapturing read.
The book plunges us into a delightful journey in which we see a young Cassius Clay turn into the infamous Louisville Lip. The Kentucky native assumed an outlandishly vocal personality, all part of his plan to get into Sonny Liston's head. Liston was to that point the uncontested boxing heaveweight champion of the world and the only obstacle between him that the champion's belt. In the end, it wasn't his brazen mouth that helped Clay win the title. Clay won his first fight against Liston fair and square by outboxing him at every level and in every round of the match. When Liston didn't come out on the seventh round it was clear that the new champ had "shook up the world." The rest as they say is history.
"Float like a butterfly. Sting like a bee. Aaaahh! Rumble, young man, rumble! Aaaahh!"
The authors of Blood Brothers superbly use new research and recently unearthed documents about Malcom X, demythologizing some assumed notions about the storied history of the Muslim preacher. Malcolm was extremely articulate and smart, an able debater and defender of the faith according to the Honorable Elijah Muhammad and his cultic Nation of Islam. Yet, once Malcolm severed ties with the NOI he became expendable to them. His confrontational and fearless approach in denouncing the NOI's abuse of power and exploitation of people, particularly women, at the highest levels of the Muslim cult ultimately cost him his life in what was a vicious public murder at the hands of NOI's assasins.
Shortly before his death, Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali, his given name as a convert of the NOI, had severed ties, mainly due to the first's fierce accusations of corruption regarding the NOI. Ali would admit years later his regret in disavowing Malcolm, whom he considered in hindsight his true friend and brother. He came to recognize that Malcolm had been right all along in his critique of the leader of the NOI at the time, Elijah Muhammad, and that it was a mix of fear and the naive zeal of a young convert that drove him to close ranks with the NOI instead of Malcolm. This was extremely painful to Malcolm, who claimed throughout that the Champ was being manipulated by powerful elements within the NOI.
I wonder what could have happened if Malcolm had not died in 1965 but had been given the chance to live a much longer life. What kind of synergy for the greater good would we had been able to witness had this friendship been reconciled and continued to blossom thereafter? Malcolm loved Ali. Ali loved Malcolm. This is the testament that Blood Brothers puts forth and no one today can deny it. Destiny brought them together. Sadly, there are sometimes greater forces of evil and falsehood hard at work in order to ruin what could have otherwise been a blessing for the world.
The brief moment in time that these two towering figures coincided is loaded with powerful history. The power of religion to shape the mind of a people, the influence of a sport like boxing as a vehicle to achieve greater ends in benefit of those who are oppresed, the skillful use of the spoken word to denounce the injustices of the day against not only the American black man but people oppressed everywhere, the grip of conviction even to the point of losing it all, one's life included, these and much more make the gift titled Blood Brothers a rapturing read.
April 22, 2017
It's an enjoyable read, though if you're already well-read on one or both of these men, you won't find much new information. But it flows nicely, and I would have appreciated the blow-by-blow (pun intended) descriptions of fights even more if I were actually a fan of boxing. It is a respectable timeline of events that led both men from obscurity to fame.
But let's assume we're going into this knowing absolutely nothing about either Malcolm or Muhammad. The title purports that one or both of them is going to die, due in some part to their friendship. I don't see how anyone could prove such a thesis. Not much of the book actually covers interactions between the minister and the athlete. It might be that the only person who can really tell us how close they were is Ali himself. Clearly, when the Nation of Islam had declared Malcolm a traitor and some of its members were plotting his assassination, Ali was not reluctant to publicly deride Malcolm. It was all he could do, either because his religion was important to him, he was afraid of Elijah Muhammad, or perhaps he really did view him as a traitor at that time. But that action alone did not prove "fatal," I don't believe.
Roberts states again and again in the text that there were several Muhammad Alis, and that he knew which one to whip out depending on who he was talking to. He could act as well as he could fight. But Roberts also contradicts himself more than a couple of times and says something to the tune of, "So Ali must have really felt disgust toward Malcolm at this point," because of something he said to a reporter, or fellow member of the NOI. Which was it? If the guy is a great actor and you truly believe that few know what is truly in his heart, how can you say any of this for certain? How can you write an entire book about it with such a sensational title?
Roberts also doesn't waste any time accusing Alex Haley of intentionally misrepresenting the relationship between the men, which just feels tacky. If they no longer had a relationship by the time he was compiling the autobiography, I think I can understand why he would not elaborate on what kind of feelings they might or might not have still had for each other.
Cassius Clay might not have become Muhammad Ali without the influence of Malcolm X--that is plausible. But I don't see how he can be held responsible for his murder, and that's what I feel like this book is insinuating.
EDIT: I wrote this review a couple of months before Ali passed away. That's why I wrote that we would likely have to speak to him to find out more about the nature of his relationship with Malcolm. That's no longer an option. :(
But let's assume we're going into this knowing absolutely nothing about either Malcolm or Muhammad. The title purports that one or both of them is going to die, due in some part to their friendship. I don't see how anyone could prove such a thesis. Not much of the book actually covers interactions between the minister and the athlete. It might be that the only person who can really tell us how close they were is Ali himself. Clearly, when the Nation of Islam had declared Malcolm a traitor and some of its members were plotting his assassination, Ali was not reluctant to publicly deride Malcolm. It was all he could do, either because his religion was important to him, he was afraid of Elijah Muhammad, or perhaps he really did view him as a traitor at that time. But that action alone did not prove "fatal," I don't believe.
Roberts states again and again in the text that there were several Muhammad Alis, and that he knew which one to whip out depending on who he was talking to. He could act as well as he could fight. But Roberts also contradicts himself more than a couple of times and says something to the tune of, "So Ali must have really felt disgust toward Malcolm at this point," because of something he said to a reporter, or fellow member of the NOI. Which was it? If the guy is a great actor and you truly believe that few know what is truly in his heart, how can you say any of this for certain? How can you write an entire book about it with such a sensational title?
Roberts also doesn't waste any time accusing Alex Haley of intentionally misrepresenting the relationship between the men, which just feels tacky. If they no longer had a relationship by the time he was compiling the autobiography, I think I can understand why he would not elaborate on what kind of feelings they might or might not have still had for each other.
Cassius Clay might not have become Muhammad Ali without the influence of Malcolm X--that is plausible. But I don't see how he can be held responsible for his murder, and that's what I feel like this book is insinuating.
EDIT: I wrote this review a couple of months before Ali passed away. That's why I wrote that we would likely have to speak to him to find out more about the nature of his relationship with Malcolm. That's no longer an option. :(
April 16, 2016
An enthralling peek into the relationship of Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali. There are greater and fresher insights concerning Muhammad Ali then Malcolm X, and that is undoubtedly due to Malcolm being one of the most written about person in modern history. And although there are many books on Muhammad Ali, the information culled from those efforts all seemed similar, at least to this reader. So, we learn here that, the then Cassius Clay began flirting with the Nation of Islam much earlier than previously thought. He had established contact with Muslims in Miami, his training headquarters years before meeting Malcolm.
The authors here suggest that Malcolm was manipulative in his befriending of a young Clay, because at the time of his meeting and embracing Clay his standing in the Nation of Islam was on the precipice of decline. The authors walk a fine line between painting Malcolm as a deceitful fraud and a genuine friend interested in the molding and developing of a young, bright, and brash young man destined to be a superstar. There is little doubt that Malcolm had a plan to make Ali an international figure as a champion of Black people everywhere and surely he wanted to be the one who brought Ali into the Nation of Islam inner circle. But to hint at the coupling being rife with fakery is a stretch. To be clear and fair to authors Randy Roberts and Johnny Smith, it is more a suggestive tone than actual fact stating.
They have done a good job researching this book, and piecing together the complex friendship between the two men. What I find most interesting about the friendship is the way Ali has become a global icon and has escaped being stenciled with contributing to the climate that ultimately led to Malcolm's assassination. Ali was one of the leading voices spewing hatred and vitriol at Malcolm, even remarking days after the brutal murder that Malcolm deserved what he got. Ali was never hounded by his words like Louis Farrakhan has been for making similar remarks and Ali was a far bigger figure than Farrakhan was in the NOI and in the world. We love and revere Ali, but we hate Farrakhan-contextually speaking in reference to each man's connection to Malcolm-and some go as far as accusing Farrakhan of being part of the killing team. In terms of how both men reacted to Malcolm after his exile from the NOI, they're rhetoric was equally damning and deadly.
The book is well paced and always engaging. To get an inside detailed look at the dynamics of the relationship between Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali, this book stands at the top.
The authors here suggest that Malcolm was manipulative in his befriending of a young Clay, because at the time of his meeting and embracing Clay his standing in the Nation of Islam was on the precipice of decline. The authors walk a fine line between painting Malcolm as a deceitful fraud and a genuine friend interested in the molding and developing of a young, bright, and brash young man destined to be a superstar. There is little doubt that Malcolm had a plan to make Ali an international figure as a champion of Black people everywhere and surely he wanted to be the one who brought Ali into the Nation of Islam inner circle. But to hint at the coupling being rife with fakery is a stretch. To be clear and fair to authors Randy Roberts and Johnny Smith, it is more a suggestive tone than actual fact stating.
They have done a good job researching this book, and piecing together the complex friendship between the two men. What I find most interesting about the friendship is the way Ali has become a global icon and has escaped being stenciled with contributing to the climate that ultimately led to Malcolm's assassination. Ali was one of the leading voices spewing hatred and vitriol at Malcolm, even remarking days after the brutal murder that Malcolm deserved what he got. Ali was never hounded by his words like Louis Farrakhan has been for making similar remarks and Ali was a far bigger figure than Farrakhan was in the NOI and in the world. We love and revere Ali, but we hate Farrakhan-contextually speaking in reference to each man's connection to Malcolm-and some go as far as accusing Farrakhan of being part of the killing team. In terms of how both men reacted to Malcolm after his exile from the NOI, they're rhetoric was equally damning and deadly.
The book is well paced and always engaging. To get an inside detailed look at the dynamics of the relationship between Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali, this book stands at the top.
April 4, 2018
BLOOD BROTHERS: The fatal friendship between Muhammad Ali and Malcolm X – Johnny Smith and Randy Roberts.
What hurts most about all of this is what could have become of Malcolm. I can understand the turmoil of the moment, the hatred towards him from his expulsion from the Nation but man, Malcolm really was on to something special…
This book chronicles Ali’s rise, or should I say Cassius’, from his arrival in Miami to begin his professional career to his second victory over Sonny Liston. And how as the Louisville Lip, he built the persona of a boorish clown with his boisterous antics, but once he met Malcolm, learned about the Nation, became Cassius X, defeated Sonny Liston and became heavyweight champion of the world; it was Malcolm’s influence directing his path on becoming a global phenom and world ambassador.
They only knew each other for less than 2 years but they became brothers and inseparable as Ali transformed, through Malcolm’s teachings, into a conscientious Black Man. But soon after, the scandal of Elijah was revealed, which ultimately led to Malcolm’s banishment from the nation and his untimely death. During this period Ali had to choose, follow Malcolm or stay with the Nation. He chose the Nation. But look at Ali post Malcolm’s death, who is he?
Malcolm X.
You’ll learn why Ali made his choice and how he truly felt about Malcolm and The Nation for that matter but most importantly you’ll learn how the man we all love today as Muhammad Ali is a result of the 19 months he spent with Malcolm.
A must read!
What hurts most about all of this is what could have become of Malcolm. I can understand the turmoil of the moment, the hatred towards him from his expulsion from the Nation but man, Malcolm really was on to something special…
This book chronicles Ali’s rise, or should I say Cassius’, from his arrival in Miami to begin his professional career to his second victory over Sonny Liston. And how as the Louisville Lip, he built the persona of a boorish clown with his boisterous antics, but once he met Malcolm, learned about the Nation, became Cassius X, defeated Sonny Liston and became heavyweight champion of the world; it was Malcolm’s influence directing his path on becoming a global phenom and world ambassador.
They only knew each other for less than 2 years but they became brothers and inseparable as Ali transformed, through Malcolm’s teachings, into a conscientious Black Man. But soon after, the scandal of Elijah was revealed, which ultimately led to Malcolm’s banishment from the nation and his untimely death. During this period Ali had to choose, follow Malcolm or stay with the Nation. He chose the Nation. But look at Ali post Malcolm’s death, who is he?
Malcolm X.
You’ll learn why Ali made his choice and how he truly felt about Malcolm and The Nation for that matter but most importantly you’ll learn how the man we all love today as Muhammad Ali is a result of the 19 months he spent with Malcolm.
A must read!
April 6, 2016
[ARC courtesy Amazon Vine program]
This book was breathtaking. Like something pressing on your chest, squeezing all the air out breathtaking.
You don't have to be a boxer to read this book. (Heck, it's heresy, but you can gloss over the detailed, vivid description of matches if you like. This is much more than a recap of the development of Muhammad Ali's career.)
Thorough and thoroughly footnoted. A lot to digest. There's history here beyond a significant chapter in the annals of boxing.
I am left wondering how various events might have unfolded differently if the events detailed here had not occurred in the 1960s.
Very visceral, as it should be. I commend the coauthors for maintaining tautness and immediacy throughout, even though this is about events of a half-century ago. The section of the book that details events after the title fight is particularly taut, almost unbearably so if you are reading this without knowing some elements that probably were common knowledge back then.
This book was breathtaking. Like something pressing on your chest, squeezing all the air out breathtaking.
You don't have to be a boxer to read this book. (Heck, it's heresy, but you can gloss over the detailed, vivid description of matches if you like. This is much more than a recap of the development of Muhammad Ali's career.)
Thorough and thoroughly footnoted. A lot to digest. There's history here beyond a significant chapter in the annals of boxing.
I am left wondering how various events might have unfolded differently if the events detailed here had not occurred in the 1960s.
Very visceral, as it should be. I commend the coauthors for maintaining tautness and immediacy throughout, even though this is about events of a half-century ago. The section of the book that details events after the title fight is particularly taut, almost unbearably so if you are reading this without knowing some elements that probably were common knowledge back then.
August 9, 2017
A beautiful glimpse at one of the most iconic relationships in the civil rights movement. The only drawback might be that it's about the two men as individuals more than it is about them as a pair...but considering how few people remain that can testify to what one or the other said about the opposite, this shouldn't be surprising.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to learn about Malcolm or Muhammed.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to learn about Malcolm or Muhammed.
July 1, 2016
Great study of these two iconic individuals of the 1960s.
August 8, 2017
A book about history, sports and politics tracing the lives of two important men.
Read
November 2, 2020Quite the story that almost seems like it could be fiction. I started reading with base knowledge of both and knowing their major accomplishments and learned a lot more than I thought I ever would. The beginning preface and prologue did give enough background knowledge that I was able to immediately understand what I needed to before the story actually began, which was nice. The pictures throughout the story gave a good image of the time passing and held some of the most important moments in American history such as Malcolm X speeches and Ali beating Henry Cooper in London. The authors, Randy Roberts and Johnny Smith, did a lot of research and did a good job making all of this information an interesting story. In the end, I would give it a a 4 out of 5 because the story is good but I had times where I had to force myself to read so I could finish it but other than that it was pretty great. I would recommend it to anyone studying the Civil Rights Movement or is interested in either Muhammad Ali or Malcolm X.
May 10, 2023
Terrific,eminently readable book about two charismatic black leaders of the early 1960s. I have read quick a bit about Ali over the years but have never read such an in-depth account about the strange triangle between Ali, Malcolm X, and Elijah Muhammad. Fascinating to ponder what Malcolm X would have gone on to accomplish had the Nation of Islam not ordered his murder.
March 12, 2017
Super engaging writing style, but the way it shifts back and forth between perspectives (Malcolm and Muhammad Ali) is REALLY confusing. 3.5 stars.
May 20, 2020
Until I finished this book, I really didn't know much about Malcolm X or even Muhammad Ali. The author did a good job to show the humanity in both of them. They both were just people trying to do the best they could with the information they had.
March 2, 2021
Full review to follow
January 5, 2022
An illuminating look at two of our most often misrepresented & misunderstood figures. Very well written, too.
Read
August 18, 2017i want to read it
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