Ali's Former Wife On Ali Cutting Off Malcolm X: “He Was Told Not To Talk To Him”

Khalilah Ali, the former wife of Muhammad Ali, shares insight into his decision to distance himself from Malcolm X. She explains that Ali was instructed not to communicate with Malcolm X under the guidance of Elijah Muhammad and the Nation of Islam.

At the time, Malcolm X had been suspended for 90 days following his controversial “chickens coming home to roost” remarks about the assassination of John F. Kennedy. According to Khalilah, this situation played a major role in Ali being told to cut ties, ultimately leading to the end of their once-close relationship.

Khalilah also reflects on how this decision impacted Ali personally and what was happening behind the scenes as their relationship came to an end.