Muhammad Ali's grandson Nico battles to a draw at the Thrilla 50th anniversary

Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of boxing icon Muhammad Ali, battled to a draw against his game Thai opponent Kittisak Klinson at the 50th anniversary commemoration of the Thrilla in Manila on Wednesday evening at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Half a century ago, Muhammad Ali successfully defended the WBC world heavyweight title in the same venue, going toe-to-toe with Joe Frazier in the final chapter of their trilogy. After 14 grueling rounds, Ali emerged victorious by technical knockout in front of a roaring Filipino crowd.

Fifty years later, Walsh stepped into the same ring to honor that legacy, but like his grandfather, he faced tougher-than-expected resistance. After eight rounds of action, one judge scored it 77-75 for Klinson, while the other two had it 76-76, resulting in a majority draw.

"I thought it was a clear victory. I am happy that the fans enjoyed the fight. I thought it was a dominant performance. I was shocked by the decision," Walsh told reporters shortly after the bout.

Though the result wasn’t what he hoped for, Walsh was grateful for the warm reception from Filipino fans who chanted his name all night. He also expressed his desire to return to the Philippines in the future.

"It was amazing. It was amazing, and the people made it special. It's not just the walls and the place. It's not just here. It's not just the arena that makes it special," Walsh said.

"Not to sound corny or anything, but seriously, it's the people. If I were in an empty stadium, this wouldn't be as special. It's the people chanting Ali now, the same way they were 50 years ago. That's what makes it special."

—JMB, GMA Integrated News