explain the difference. The practical difference.
Ali never applied for a deferment to my knowledge. He just said “I ain’t going”. Trump said “I ain’t going” through 7 successful deferments. Seven.
One was very clear in his conviction, and one pulled every string he could muster.
I think you are blinded by Muslim Ali’s bling and his physical star power. Being a media star tends to blind many people to their faults, foibles, and crimes.