Ballard became more of a known quantity after the release of the movie Sound of Freedom, a dramatization of his mission in which he was played by actor Jim Caviezel. Critics of the film have argued that Ballard’s claims about his accomplishments have been “dramatically overstated or without clear documentary evidence.”
Who the hell thinks that's what Champion means? Figure-skating Champion, Hot Dog Eating Champion, Heavyweight Champion. This another AI article?
Champion of the people is also an accepted use of the word. As in, championing a cause.
Its just used that way to make it less wordy. Like when people say "Raising money for cancer" instead of "raising money for cancer research". I always find it mildly humorous but the intent is obvious.
Champion can technically also refer to a notable advocate for something, like a "champion of human rights," or even as a verb in the same way, "we champion diversity here at Tech Corp Z" etc.
It definitely feels like an AI article. Humans don't write things like " he became a known quantity" in this context…