Ali Vs Wepner Appraisal

Vintage Muhammad Ali vs. Chuck Wepner 'Equal Opportunity Employer' Promotional Button

This is a vintage circular promotional button or decal from 1975, commemorating the Heavyweight Championship fight between Muhammad Ali and Chuck Wepner. The item features a high-contrast black and white photographic portrait of a young Muhammad Ali in a boxing stance, wearing Everlast gloves and trunks. To the right of his image, the text 'HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP ALI vs. WEPNER' is printed in a bold, sans-serif black font. Curving along the bottom border is the humorous and iconic quote printed in bright red: '"ALI IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER"'. The background is an off-white or cream color, likely due to natural aging and toning of the original white surface. In terms of construction, it appears to be a celluloid or lithograph-on-metal pin-back button, though it may also be a developmental proof or heavy-duty sticker. The physical condition shows signs of age-related wear, including minor scuffing on the surface, some light foxing or spotting, and slight edge wear. These pieces were often distributed by Don King Productions as part of the massive marketing campaign for the fight, which famously inspired Sylvester Stallone to write 'Rocky'. There are no visible maker's marks on the front; such marks would typically be found on the edge or reverse side. The item is a significant piece of 1970s sports memorabilia, reflecting Ali's characteristic wit and the promotion of one of the era's most culturally impactful boxing matches.