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Obama Loans Ali's Gloves Amid Center Funding Controversy

2/26/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Former President Barack Obama is loaning Muhammad Ali boxing gloves to Obama Presidential Center in Chicago for display starting in June.
The gloves were kept in Obama's private study during his presidency and symbolize Ali's strength and activism.
The center has faced controversy over public land use and funding, with critics questioning costs.
The Obama Foundation says it is investing $850 million in private funding to benefit the South Side.

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Story summary

Former President Barack Obama is loaning Muhammad Ali boxing gloves to Obama Presidential Center in Chicago for display starting in June.
The gloves were kept in Obama's private study during his presidency and symbolize Ali's strength and activism.
The center has faced controversy over public land use and funding, with critics questioning costs.
The Obama Foundation says it is investing $850 million in private funding to benefit the South Side.