10.15.25

Ali Center President & CEO DeVone Holt stepping down from leadership role

LOUISVILLE, KY (October 15, 2025) — The Muhammad Ali Center Board of Directors today announced that CEO DeVone Holt has made the decision to step down from his role. His transition is on October 24, 2025.

The Board of Directors extends its gratitude to DeVone Holt for his service and leadership. During his tenure, Mr. Holt successfully led the Center through significant recovery and restoration efforts following a fire that impacted the facility and oversaw the successful launch of the transformative Muhammad Ali Index on Compassion.

To ensure the Center continues to grow and strengthen as a global institution dedicated to Muhammad Ali’s enduring legacy, Yolanda “Lonnie” Ali, co-founder and wife of Muhammad Ali, will be appointed Chairman of the Muhammad Ali Center and will also serve as Interim President and CEO. She will guide the organization through this transition in close collaboration with its experienced leadership team and staff.

“The Muhammad Ali Center remains steadfastly committed to inspiring people to achieve their greatest potential and honoring Ali’s iconic legacy and global platform,” said Lonnie Ali. “Our focus will not waver. We have a powerful mission, a strong team, and a critical celebration coming up, the 12th Annual Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards on Saturday, November 8th, where we will honor individuals committed to social justice and service.”
The Board will soon begin an international search for a permanent CEO who will champion the Center’s global strategy and bring deep expertise in cultural leadership, fundraising, and organizational growth.

Under Lonnie Ali’s interim leadership, and with the passion of its dedicated team, the Muhammad Ali Center is poised to amplify its global influence and remain a living embodiment of his belief that greatness lies in service to others.

About the Muhammad Ali Center

The Muhammad Ali Center is a 501(c)(3) that prides itself on being much more than a museum. As an athlete, a humanitarian, a global voice and man guided by faith,

Muhammad Ali embodied a pursuit and belief in the greatness found in all people. Founded in 2005 by Lonnie and Muhammad Ali in his hometown of Louisville, the Center is dedicated to honoring Ali and continuing work based on his core principles.

Media Contact:
Stacey Wade
NIMBUS
swade@hellonimbus.com
—
Dustin Vogt
Muhammad Ali Center
dvogt@alicenter.org