Michael B. Jordan and Lonnie Ali Reveal Jaalen Best as Muhammad Ali in Prime Video’s The Greatest
Prime Video has officially found its Muhammad Ali. Rising actor Jaalen Best will step into the role of the legendary boxer in The Greatest, the first fully authorized scripted project about the life of Muhammad Ali.
The announcement came during the Amazon 2026 Upfront presentation at the Beacon Theatre, where Michael B. Jordan and Lonnie Ali introduced the actor selected after an extensive nationwide search.
Lonnie Ali made it clear that casting the icon required more than resemblance. She said the actor needed courage, conviction, heart, charisma, and presence. She added that Muhammad Ali carried the full package in every room he entered, so the role demanded someone capable of matching that energy. Her remarks drew laughter and applause from the audience.
Still, the project carries deep emotional weight. As Ali’s widow, co-founder of the Ali Center, executive producer, and consultant, Lonnie Ali has played a central role in shaping the story. She reminded the audience that three decades have passed since Ali’s unforgettable moment lighting the Olympic torch at the 1996 Summer Olympics while battling Parkinson’s disease.
Jordan described Ali as a figure who rose far beyond sports. He said few public figures in modern history influenced culture, politics, faith, and activism the way Ali did. That influence, he noted, makes this project especially meaningful.
The Greatest will trace the life of Ali from his early days as Cassius Clay to his transformation into a global icon after embracing Islam and changing his name. The series also promises to explore his social activism, personal battles, and legacy as one of the most recognized men in history.
Best, visibly emotional on stage, thanked the producers and shared how the role transformed him. He described the journey as terrifying, inspiring, humbling, and unforgettable. He then delighted the audience by showing off quick footwork inspired by Ali’s famous movement in the ring.
The announcement instantly sparked excitement across entertainment and boxing circles, with many praising the decision to cast a fresh face rather than relying on an established Hollywood name. That move gives audiences the chance to see Ali through a new lens.
Jordan also used the event to expand his growing television empire. He unveiled Delphi, a new series set in the Creed universe, focused on young fighters training at the Delphi Gym. Production begins in Los Angeles on May 18. He further confirmed that Rebecca Yarros’ bestselling novel Fourth Wing has been ordered to series at Prime Video.
For Prime Video, The Greatest could become one of the year’s biggest prestige releases. For audiences worldwide, it marks a long-awaited chance to witness the story of Muhammad Ali told with the approval of the family and estate.
