Pictures of Ali shaking hands with Deng gave a signal of China's willingness to engage with the world.
In an interview he gave during this visit, Ali defended boxing's relative safety comparing it favorably with sports like car racing and skiing which he argued were more unsafe.
However, this was not a serious fight; Ali kept dancing away from his opponent, moved his right fist in exaggerated circles, and then pretended that he had been knocked out.
Muhammad Ali has not only given them guidance on technique, but also restored the hope and faith that inspired the boxers to be determined and committed [to the sport].
[3] According to the BBC, Chinese media has highlighted Ali's refusal to be drafted, and his activism related to civil rights.