Jason Whitlock criticized the comparison between LeBron James and Muhammad Ali made by Dan Le Batard.
Whitlock described Le Batard’s claim that LeBron is “today’s Muhammad Ali” as laughable, stating, “As an ‘activist’ LeBron faces zero resistance.”
On X, Whitlock argued that unlike Ali, James faces no significant resistance as an activist. He added, “Ali confronted/debated his adversaries. LeBron ducks them and pays people to produce content in support of him.”
Whitlock also pointed out that Ali was “attached to a religious organization,” contrasting it with LeBron’s lack of religious affiliation, adding, “LeBron couldn’t spell church or faith.”
“Ali competed in the ultimate masculine sport. LeBron popularized flopping,” Whitlock noted another difference.
Despite acknowledging LeBron’s greatness on the court, Whitlock criticized his off-court activism. He remarked, “LeBron stands for nothing beyond Nike’s global agenda. Ali took real risks based on his convictions. LeBron has risked nothing.”
Ali’s activism included his outspoken opposition to the Vietnam War, which led to his boxing titles being stripped and a three-year ban from the sport. He also faced significant public and legal backlash for his stance, demonstrating a high level of personal and professional risk.
Whitlock accused LeBron of prioritizing money and brand over meaningful convictions, unlike Ali, who took risks based on his beliefs.
He added, “LeBron made it fashionable for black athletes to prioritize money and brand above everything. Off the court, LeBron is a fraud.”
In a follow-up tweet, Whitlock emphasized the difference between LeBron and Ali, focusing on their respective values and actions.
He wrote, “Can you spell comprehension? Le Batard compared LeBron to Ali, someone with deep religious convictions. I was pointing out the difference between LeBron and Ali.”
