Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr., was a legendary American boxer and activist. Known as 'the Greatest', he held multiple heavyweight titles and was a prominent figure in sports and civil rights movements.
Muhammad Ali, originally named Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr., was born at 6:35 p.m. in Louisville, Kentucky to Cassius Clay Sr. and Odessa Grady Clay.
Muhammad Ali, born on January 17, 1942, was an American professional boxer and one of the greatest sporting figures of the 20th century.
Muhammad Ali had his first fight on May 5, 1954.
Cassius Clay struggles academically but becomes a school celebrity for his dedication to training, including running to school every day alongside the bus. His legacy remains a point of Central pride.
The 1960 Olympic Games took place in Rome. Muhammad Ali, at the age of 18, participated in the games after achieving success in national tournaments like the Golden Gloves.
Muhammad Ali achieved fame by winning a gold medal at the 1960 Olympics in Rome. This victory marked the beginning of his legendary career as a boxer.
On September 5, 1960, Muhammad Ali secured an Olympic gold medal, marking a significant achievement in his early career as a boxer.
At age 18, Clay enters a contract with a group of Louisville-area businessmen who will finance his professional boxing career. This influences his future philanthropic efforts.
Muhammad Ali made his professional debut on October 29, 1960, winning a six-round decision over Tunney Hunsaker. This marked the beginning of his remarkable boxing career.
Muhammad Ali first attended a Nation of Islam meeting in 1961 and continued to attend meetings, although keeping his involvement hidden from the public. He met Malcolm X, who became his spiritual and political mentor.
In June 1962, Muhammad Ali met Malcolm X.
On March 13, 1963, Muhammad Ali faced his toughest fight during this period against Doug Jones, the number two heavyweight contender. Despite the challenges, Ali emerged victorious in a match that was met with controversy and criticism.
On February 25, 1964, Muhammad Ali, then known as Cassius Clay, won his first heavyweight title by defeating reigning champion Sonny Liston. This victory marked the beginning of his legendary reign as a heavyweight champion.
The day after winning his first heavyweight belt, Ali announces he is a proud Muslim and goes by the name Muhammad Ali from then on.
After winning the championship from Liston in 1964, the Nation of Islam agreed to publicize his membership and Elijah Muhammad gave a radio address renaming Clay to Muhammad Ali. Ali explained that his earlier name was a 'slave name' and a 'white man's name' and expressed his desire to be known as Muhammad Ali.
Muhammad Ali changed his name from Cassius Clay, which he referred to as his 'slave name', signifying a significant personal and cultural transformation.
Muhammad Ali married cocktail waitress Sonji Roi on August 14, 1964, approximately one month after being introduced to her. Their marriage ended in divorce on January 10, 1966, due to quarrels over Sonji's refusal to join the Nation Of Islam.
Muhammad Ali emerged with a first-round knockout victory in a rematch against Sonny Liston.
Muhammad Ali defended his title against former heavyweight champion Floyd Patterson, with the match lasting 12 rounds before being called on a technical knockout. There were speculations about the authenticity of the conflict between Ali and Patterson during the fight.
Ali and then-WBA heavyweight champion boxer Ernie Terrell had agreed to meet for a bout in Chicago on March 29, 1966. The fight was significant as it was scheduled after Ali's title was stripped following his joining the Nation of Islam.
Muhammad Ali fought Cleveland Williams, landing more than 100 punches, scoring four knockdowns, and being hit a total of three times.
Muhammad Ali adopted the name Muhammad Ali after joining the Nation of Islam, replacing his previous 'slave name' given in honor of a white abolitionist who freed his slaves. This marked a significant turning point in his life and career.
After Ali's title defense against Zora Folley on March 22, he was stripped of his title due to his refusal to be drafted to army service. His boxing license was also suspended by the state of New York.
On April 28, 1967, Muhammad Ali refused military induction into the U.S. Armed Forces, citing his religious beliefs. This led to the revocation of his heavyweight championship and a three-year ban from boxing during the prime of his career.
Muhammad Ali returned to a Houston boxing ring to fight Terrell in a contentious match. Terrell's use of Ali's former name, Clay, angered the champion, leading to a brutal 15-round fight.
Muhammad Ali received a draft notice in June 1967, which led to a significant legal battle and controversy.
At the trial on June 20, 1967, the jury found Ali guilty after only 21 minutes of deliberation of the criminal offense of violating the Selective Service laws by refusing to be drafted.
On August 17, 1967, Muhammad Ali married Belinda Boyd, who later changed her name to Khalilah Ali. They had four children together.
Muhammad Ali settled a $1 million lawsuit against radio producer Murray Woroner by accepting $10,000 to appear in a privately staged fantasy fight against retired champion Rocky Marciano. The boxers were filmed sparring for about 75 one-minute rounds, and a computer program determined the winner based on data about the fighters and the opinions of approximately 250 boxing experts.
Muhammad Ali was granted a license to box by the City of Atlanta Athletic Commission, with the influential power of Georgia's black politics in Ali's comeback.
On September 19, 1970, Muhammad Ali was involved in a significant event. More details are needed to provide a specific description.
Muhammad Ali's first return bout was against Jerry Quarry, resulting in a win after three rounds after Quarry was cut.
Muhammad Ali lost by unanimous decision to Joe Frazier in the 'Fight of the Century', marking his first professional defeat.
On March 8, 1971, Muhammad Ali defended his world title at Madison Square Garden in New York. The fight was a 15-round battle that took place in front of a large audience.
In a unanimous decision, the United States Supreme Court overturns Ali’s conviction for draft evasion, saying the Appeals Court had not properly established their grounds against Ali’s conscientious objector status.
Wilt Chamberlain, a basketball star, challenged Muhammad Ali to a fight in 1971. Despite having physical advantages, Ali was able to influence Chamberlain into calling off the bout during a shared interview.
Muhammad Ali's Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca in 1972, similar to Malcolm X's experience, inspired him by exposing him to people of different colors from around the world, leading to a greater spiritual awareness.
After losing to Frazier, Ali fought Jerry Quarry, had a second bout with Floyd Patterson, and faced Bob Foster in 1972. In 1973, Ken Norton broke Ali's jaw while giving him the second loss of his career.
On January 28, 1974, Muhammad Ali announced his retirement from professional boxing, marking the end of an era in sports history.
On January 28, 1974, Muhammad Ali fought Joe Frazier in a highly anticipated match at Madison Square Garden in New York. The fight ended with a decision in favor of Joe Frazier, known as 'L12'.
On October 30, 1974, Muhammad Ali faced George Foreman in the 'Rumble in the Jungle' in Kinshasa, Zaire. Despite being the underdog, Ali employed his 'rope-a-dope' strategy and won in an eighth-round knockout, regaining the title stripped from him seven years prior.
Muhammad Ali defeated George Foreman on October 30, 1974, in a surprising turn of events during the 'Rumble in the Jungle'. Ali's 'rope-a-dope' strategy and relentless taunting led to Foreman's first career knockdown.
Muhammad Ali was preparing for his title fight with Joe Frazier on October 1, 1975, by punching a speed bag at the Folk Art Center in Manila, Philippines.
Muhammad Ali's third match with Joe Frazier, known as the 'Thrilla in Manila', was held in temperatures approaching 100 °F. Ali adopted the 'rope-a-dope' strategy and dominated the 13th and 14th rounds, leading to Frazier's trainer refusing to allow him to answer the bell for the 15th and final round.
On October 1, 1975, Muhammad Ali achieved a technical knockout victory over his opponent, who was the 14th fighter he defeated, in Manila at the Araneta Coliseum. The fight was for the World Title.
Muhammad Ali defeated Jean-Pierre Coopman by 5th round knockout, although the WBC Heavyweight title was not on the line for this fight.
Muhammad Ali fought Jimmy Young and won a controversial unanimous decision. This fight was marked by Howard Cosell's remark that he had 'never seen Ali so off in his timing'.
Muhammad Ali defeated Richard Dunn by 5th round technical knockout, marking the last time Ali would knock an opponent out in his boxing career.
In September 1977, Ali struggled in a fight against Earnie Shavers, causing concern about his health. Despite winning, the bout led to his longtime doctor quitting due to concerns about Ali's well-being.
In February 1978, Muhammad Ali lost his heavyweight title to Leon Spinks.
Six months later, in August 1978, Muhammad Ali regained his heavyweight title by defeating Leon Spinks.
A rematch occurred in September 1978 at the Superdome in New Orleans, where Ali won a unanimous decision, becoming the first heavyweight champion to win the belt three times.
On July 27, 1979, Ali announced his retirement from boxing, marking the end of an era in the sport.
On October 2, 1980, Ali returned to the ring to fight Larry Holmes at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, resulting in Ali's first loss by stoppage. This fight had a significant impact on Ali's health.
Muhammad Ali talked a suicidal man down from jumping off a ninth-floor ledge in Los Angeles, an act that garnered national attention and showcased his compassion and heroism.
Despite pleas to retire, Ali fought for the last time on December 11, 1981, in Nassau, Bahamas, against Trevor Berbick, marking the end of his boxing career.
On June 12, 1983, Muhammad Ali fought NHL player Dave Semenko in an exhibition match. The match was officially a draw after going three rounds, but the Associated Press reported Ali was not seriously trying and was just toying with Semenko.
Muhammad Ali is diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1984, which significantly impacts his health and later becomes a focal point of his advocacy work.
Muhammad Ali visited Israel to request the release of Muslim prisoners at Atlit detainee camp, highlighting his efforts to advocate for the rights of Muslim individuals.
On November 19, 1986, Muhammad Ali married Yolanda 'Lonnie' Williams. Together they adopted a son and she played a significant role in managing his affairs.
Muhammad Ali was selected to personify the vitality of the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights by the California Bicentennial Foundation, symbolizing his significance in representing American values.
Muhammad Ali participated in a Chicago rally in support of Palestine during the First Intifada and visited Sudan to raise awareness about the plight of famine victims, demonstrating his commitment to humanitarian causes.
Muhammad Ali participated in an Indian charity event with the Muslim Educational Society in Kozhikode, Kerala, showcasing his global philanthropic efforts and support for educational initiatives.
Muhammad Ali was inducted into the inaugural class of the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990, recognizing his significant contributions to the sport.
Ali cooperated with Thomas Hauser on a biography, Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times. The oral history was released in 1991.
In 1994, Muhammad Ali campaigned to the United States government to aid refugees affected by the Rwandan genocide and to donate to organizations helping Rwandan refugees.
In 1996, Muhammad Ali was chosen to light the Olympic flame at the start of the Games of the XXVI Olympiad in Atlanta, Georgia. His appearance confirmed his status as one of the most-beloved athletes in the world.
Sports Illustrated names Muhammad Ali as the Sportsman of the Century in recognition of his unparalleled achievements and influence in the world of sports.
By the end of the 20th century, Muhammad Ali had made it onto several superlatives lists, being ranked at or near the top of most lists of the 20th century's greatest boxers and receiving numerous accolades.
The Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act was introduced in 1999 and passed in 2000 to protect the rights and welfare of boxers in the United States.
After the September 11 attacks, Muhammad Ali spoke out against the misrepresentation of Islam, emphasizing that Islam is a religion of peace and condemning the actions of the attackers as being contrary to the true tenets of Islam.
Muhammad Ali praised Will Smith's performance in the biopic Ali, stating that Smith was the only person who could accurately resemble and act like him.
On November 17, 2002, Muhammad Ali went to Afghanistan as the 'U.N. Messenger of Peace' for a three-day goodwill mission as a special guest of the UN.
His 1966 fight against George Chuvalo was the subject of the 2003 documentary film The Last Round: Chuvalo vs. Ali.
Muhammad Ali passed away in 2004. He was a legendary boxer and one of the most beloved athletes in the world.
In 2005, Muhammad Ali was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the highest civilian awards in the United States.
In 2006, Muhammad Ali sold his name and image for $50 million, which significantly impacted his net worth and financial standing.
In January 2007, it was reported that Muhammad Ali and his wife Lonnie put their home in Berrien Springs, Michigan, which they had owned since 1975, up for sale and purchased a home in eastern Jefferson County, Kentucky for $1,875,000.
On September 1, 2009, Muhammad Ali visited Ennis, County Clare, Ireland, the home of his great-grandfather, Abe Grady, to connect with his family's heritage.
The publication 'Cassius Clay: Before He Was Ali' provides insights into the early life and career of Muhammad Ali, shedding light on his journey from Cassius Clay to becoming the legendary figure known as Muhammad Ali.
In 2010, Osmon Williams came forward claiming to be Muhammad Ali's biological son. His mother Temica Williams launched a lawsuit against Ali in 1981 for sexual assault, claiming that her son Osmon was fathered by Ali when she was 17.
On July 27, 2012, Muhammad Ali was a titular bearer of the Olympic flag during the opening ceremonies of the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, despite his declining health due to Parkinson's syndrome.
Ali's resistance to the draft was covered in the 2013 documentary The Trials of Muhammad Ali.
The documentary film 'I Am Ali' was released in 2014, which includes audio recordings that Muhammad Ali made throughout his career and interviews with his intimates.
In December 2015, Muhammad Ali reiterated his stance against the violence of Islamic jihadists, calling for true Muslims to stand up against those who misuse Islam for personal agendas and urging political leaders to promote understanding of the religion of Islam.
On June 3, 2016, Muhammad Ali died in Phoenix, Arizona. He was known for his remarkable boxing career and his personal life, having been married four times and fathering nine children.
The article 'Muhammad Ali's Life in Photos' captures various facets of the iconic boxer's life, showcasing his time in the ring as well as his more lighthearted moments. It offers a visual narrative of his impactful legacy.
Ali's funeral services began in Louisville with an Islamic Janazah prayer service at Freedom Hall. The Janazah prayer was attended by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
A public memorial service for Ali was held at downtown Louisville's KFC Yum! Center. The service included eulogies from Billy Crystal, Lonnie Ali, Bryant Gumbel, and former President Bill Clinton. The estimated viewership was 1 billion worldwide.
The docuseries 'What’s My Name' was released in 2019, focusing on Muhammad Ali's life and achievements.
The documentary 'Muhammad Ali' was released in 2021, codirected by Ken Burns, providing insights into the life of the legendary boxer.
On April 6, 2023, Muhammad Ali was posthumously inducted into the Team USA Hall of Fame, honoring his remarkable achievements as a boxer and his enduring legacy as a sports icon.
On February 25th, 2024, marks the 60th Anniversary of Muhammad Ali's very first Heavyweight title victory over Sonny Liston in 1964. The victory took place on Washington Avenue, where he trained and clinched the Championship title. The exhibit showcases his life from childhood to Miami, the Olympics, title bouts, and historic global influence.
On March 11, 2024, it was announced that Muhammad Ali would be inducted to the 2024 WWE Hall of Fame.