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2024-09-22 08:21:10

Muhammad Ali

American boxer and activist
American boxer and activist

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.

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1942-01-17
Muhammad Ali is born

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.

1942-01-17
Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali, born on January 17, 1942, was an American professional boxer and one of the greatest sporting figures of the 20th century.

1954-05-05
Ali's first fight

Muhammad Ali had his first fight on May 5, 1954.

1957-09-24
Enters Central High School

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.

1960-08-25
Olympic Games in Rome

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.

1960-09-01
Muhammad Ali Wins Gold Medal at 1960 Olympics

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.

1960-09-05
Muhammad Ali Wins Olympic Gold Medal

On September 5, 1960, Muhammad Ali secured an Olympic gold medal, marking a significant achievement in his early career as a boxer.

1960-10-26
Signs with Louisville Sponsoring Group

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.

1960-10-29
Professional Debut of Muhammad Ali

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.

1961
Ali's Affiliation with the Nation of Islam

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.

1962-06
Meets Malcolm X

In June 1962, Muhammad Ali met Malcolm X.

1963-03-13
Muhammad Ali's Tough Fight Against Doug Jones

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.

1964-02-25
Muhammad Ali Becomes Heavyweight Champion

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.

1964-02-26
Announces Conversion to Islam, Name Change

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.

1964-03-06
Name Change to Muhammad Ali

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.

1964-06-05
Muhammad Ali Changes Name

Muhammad Ali changed his name from Cassius Clay, which he referred to as his 'slave name', signifying a significant personal and cultural transformation.

1964-08-14
Marriage to Sonji Roi

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.

1965-05-25
Muhammad Ali's Rematch Against Liston

Muhammad Ali emerged with a first-round knockout victory in a rematch against Sonny Liston.

1965-11-22
Muhammad Ali defends title against Floyd Patterson

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.

1966-03-29
Ali vs. Terrell Bout Agreement

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.

1966-11-14
Muhammad Ali's Triumph Over Cleveland Williams

Muhammad Ali fought Cleveland Williams, landing more than 100 punches, scoring four knockdowns, and being hit a total of three times.

1967-02-06
Muhammad Ali joins the Nation of Islam

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.

1967-03-22
Ali's Title Defense Against Zora Folley

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.

1967-04-28
Muhammad Ali's Refusal of Military Induction

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.

1967-05-05
Muhammad Ali vs Terrell Fight

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.

1967-06-09
Muhammad Ali Receives Draft Notice

Muhammad Ali received a draft notice in June 1967, which led to a significant legal battle and controversy.

1967-06-20
Ali found guilty of violating Selective Service laws

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.

1967-08-17
Marriage to Belinda Boyd

On August 17, 1967, Muhammad Ali married Belinda Boyd, who later changed her name to Khalilah Ali. They had four children together.

1969
Ali vs. Marciano Fantasy Fight

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.

1970-08-11
Ali Granted License to Box in Atlanta

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.

1970-09-19
Muhammad Ali

On September 19, 1970, Muhammad Ali was involved in a significant event. More details are needed to provide a specific description.

1970-10-26
Ali's Return Bout Against Jerry Quarry

Muhammad Ali's first return bout was against Jerry Quarry, resulting in a win after three rounds after Quarry was cut.

1971-03-08
Ali vs. Frazier 'Fight of the Century' Result

Muhammad Ali lost by unanimous decision to Joe Frazier in the 'Fight of the Century', marking his first professional defeat.

1971-03-08
Muhammad Ali's World Title Defense at Madison Square Garden

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.

1971-06-28
Supreme Court Decision

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.

1971-07-26
Wilt Chamberlain challenges Ali to a fight

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.

1972
Muhammad Ali's Hajj Pilgrimage to Mecca

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.

1973
Ali's fights against Quarry, Patterson, Foster and Norton

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.

1974-01-28
Muhammad Ali Announces Retirement

On January 28, 1974, Muhammad Ali announced his retirement from professional boxing, marking the end of an era in sports history.

1974-01-28
Muhammad Ali vs Joe Frazier Fight

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'.

1974-10-30
The Rumble in the Jungle

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.

1974-10-30
Ali's Victory Over Foreman

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.

1975-09-29
Muhammad Ali Prepares for Title Fight

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.

1975-10-01
The Thrilla in Manila

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.

1975-10-01
Muhammad Ali TKO's 14 for World Title in Manila

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.

1976-02-02
Ali vs. Jean-Pierre Coopman

Muhammad Ali defeated Jean-Pierre Coopman by 5th round knockout, although the WBC Heavyweight title was not on the line for this fight.

1976-04-30
Ali vs. Jimmy Young

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'.

1976-05-24
Ali vs. Richard Dunn

Muhammad Ali defeated Richard Dunn by 5th round technical knockout, marking the last time Ali would knock an opponent out in his boxing career.

1977-09
Ali vs Earnie Shavers

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.

1978-02
Muhammad Ali loses heavyweight title to Leon Spinks

In February 1978, Muhammad Ali lost his heavyweight title to Leon Spinks.

1978-08
Muhammad Ali regains heavyweight title by beating Leon Spinks

Six months later, in August 1978, Muhammad Ali regained his heavyweight title by defeating Leon Spinks.

1978-09
Ali vs Leon Spinks II

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.

1979-07-27
Ali's Retirement Announcement

On July 27, 1979, Ali announced his retirement from boxing, marking the end of an era in the sport.

1980-10-02
Ali vs Larry Holmes

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.

1981-01-19
Muhammad Ali's Intervention to Prevent Suicide

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.

1981-12-11
Ali vs Trevor Berbick

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.

1983-06-12
Ali vs Dave Semenko Exhibition Match

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.

1984
Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease

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.

1985
Muhammad Ali's Visit to Israel

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.

1986-11-19
Marriage to Yolanda 'Lonnie' Williams

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.

1987
Muhammad Ali's Representation of U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights

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.

1988
Muhammad Ali's Support for Palestine and Visit to Sudan

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.

1989
Muhammad Ali's Participation in Indian Charity Event

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.

1990
Induction into International Boxing Hall of Fame

Muhammad Ali was inducted into the inaugural class of the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990, recognizing his significant contributions to the sport.

1991
Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times Biography

Ali cooperated with Thomas Hauser on a biography, Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times. The oral history was released in 1991.

1994
Ali's Campaign for Rwandan Refugees

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.

1996-07-19
Muhammad Ali Lights Olympic Flame

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.

1997
Sportsman of the Century

Sports Illustrated names Muhammad Ali as the Sportsman of the Century in recognition of his unparalleled achievements and influence in the world of sports.

1999
Recognition in Superlatives

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.

2000
Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act

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.

2001-09-11
Muhammad Ali's Response to September 11 Attacks

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.

2001-12-11
Muhammad Ali comments on Will Smith's portrayal in Ali

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.

2002-11-17
Ali's Goodwill Mission in Afghanistan

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.

2003
The Last Round: Chuvalo vs. Ali Documentary

His 1966 fight against George Chuvalo was the subject of the 2003 documentary film The Last Round: Chuvalo vs. Ali.

2004
Muhammad Ali's Death

Muhammad Ali passed away in 2004. He was a legendary boxer and one of the most beloved athletes in the world.

2005
Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom

In 2005, Muhammad Ali was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the highest civilian awards in the United States.

2006
Ali's Sale of Name and Image

In 2006, Muhammad Ali sold his name and image for $50 million, which significantly impacted his net worth and financial standing.

2007-01
Ali's Real Estate Transactions

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.

2009-09-01
Ali's Visit to Ennis, Ireland

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.

2009-10-21
Publication of 'Cassius Clay: Before He Was Ali'

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.

2010
Paternity Claim by Osmon Williams

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.

2012-07-27
Ali Bearing the Olympic Flag

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.

2013
The Trials of Muhammad Ali documentary released

Ali's resistance to the draft was covered in the 2013 documentary The Trials of Muhammad Ali.

2014
Release of Documentary 'I Am 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.

2015-12
Muhammad Ali's Stand Against Islamic Jihadists

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.

2016-06-03
Muhammad Ali passes away in Phoenix, Arizona

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.

2016-06-04
Life in Photos: Muhammad Ali

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.

2016-06-09
Islamic Janazah prayer service for Ali

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.

2016-06-10
Public memorial service for Ali

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.

2019
Release of Docuseries 'What’s My Name'

The docuseries 'What’s My Name' was released in 2019, focusing on Muhammad Ali's life and achievements.

2021
Release of Documentary 'Muhammad Ali'

The documentary 'Muhammad Ali' was released in 2021, codirected by Ken Burns, providing insights into the life of the legendary boxer.

2023-04-06
Muhammad Ali Inducted into Team USA Hall of Fame

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.

2024-02-25
Muhammad Ali's 60th Anniversary of Heavyweight Title Victory

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.

2024-03-11
Announcement of Ali's induction to WWE Hall of Fame

On March 11, 2024, it was announced that Muhammad Ali would be inducted to the 2024 WWE Hall of Fame.

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Muhammad Ali
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