DeVone Holt resigns as Muhammad Ali Center CEO to ‘make a greater impact’

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- DeVone Holt, president and CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center, is stepping down less than a year after taking on the role.

Holt announced his resignation "after careful consideration" in a statement this week, saying his last day will be Friday, Oct. 24.

"The worsening problems in our country and around the world have compelled me to begin identifying an even greater platform to advance the fight for democracy, human rights and freedom for all people," Holt said in the statement.

Holt became the first local leader to serve as the museum and cultural center’s president and CEO when he took the job in July 2024.

Before joining the Ali Center, Holt helped lead the development of Goodwill Industries of Kentucky's $120 million West Louisville Opportunity Campus as its chief external affairs officer.

While leading the Ali Center, Holt helped push forward new ways to honor Muhammad Ali’s legacy.

The Ali Center held its first Emerging G.O.A.T. Award ceremony, recognizing Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter and other athletes who "go above and beyond in their sport and humanitarian work," according to the Center’s website.

He also oversaw the launch of the Muhammad Ali Index, a data-driven research project that uses artificial intelligence to measure and predict compassion in U.S. cities.

"Even greater accomplishments are on the horizon for the Muhammad Ali Center," Holt said. "Be on the lookout for them soon."

The Ali Center's board hasn't yet announced who will lead the organization after Holt's departure.