This Morning presenter Alison Hammond has shared a remarkable family story that connects her directly to the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali. The television host revealed that her father, Clifford Hammond, worked as a bodyguard for Ali during his visits to Birmingham, leading to a unique tribute in the family.
A Father's Admiration Leads to a Lasting Legacy
Alison explained on The Jonathan Ross Show that her father's deep admiration for the heavyweight champion inspired him to name his children after the sports icon. "Friends and family will call me Ali - Muhammad Ali," she said. "My dad named me and I've got a sister in Jamaica called Alicia and then I've got a brother called Ali. The three of us are named after Muhammad Ali, because my dad was his bodyguard - he absolutely loved him."
Security Duties and Personal Connections
Clifford Hammond would be called upon whenever Muhammad Ali travelled to Birmingham, taking on security responsibilities to protect the boxing great. This professional relationship fostered a personal bond that extended to the next generation, embedding Ali's legacy within the Hammond family.
Alison, who hails from Birmingham, previously recounted meeting Muhammad Ali himself, though she admitted it was at an age when she didn't fully appreciate the encounter. Speaking on her Big Weekend show, she recalled: "You know, I've met him. But it was at an age where I didn't want to meet him. You know like when your mum drags you out. I didn't know who he was! I was like, pulling away from him. I got photos of me going, who's this weirdo?"
Addressing Celebrity Traitors Speculation
During her appearance on The Jonathan Ross Show, Alison also addressed rumours about her potential participation in the upcoming series of BBC's Celebrity Traitors. She expressed enthusiasm for Claudia Winkleman's popular programme but clarified that scheduling conflicts with her presenting role on The Great British Bake Off would prevent her involvement.
"I can't do it, because I'm doing Bake Off," declared the television personality. "I think it's the same time when I'm doing Bake Off, so that's a definite no. I'm so sorry, I would love to do that." Alison added with characteristic humour: "I wouldn't want to be a Traitor though, I'd want to be a Faithful. I don't want no stress."
A Lasting Tribute to a Sporting Legend
Muhammad Ali, who passed away in 2016 at age 74 after battling Parkinson's disease, remains one of the most celebrated figures in sports history. The Hammond family's naming tradition serves as a personal testament to his enduring impact, bridging generations through a story of professional service and personal admiration.
The Jonathan Ross Show featuring Alison Hammond's revelations aired on ITV and ITVX, offering viewers insight into this unexpected connection between British television and boxing royalty.
