Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali, originally named Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr., was an American professional boxer, born on January 17, 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky. He is universally acknowledged as one of the greatest fighters of all time. Ali started his professional career in 1960 after winning a gold medal in the light heavyweight division at the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome. Ali is known for his unorthodox fighting style, which he described as 'float like a butterfly, sting like a bee', and his charismatic personality both in and out of the ring.

Ali was also known for his civil rights activism and refusal to be drafted into the army for the Vietnam War. He was a key figure in the civil rights movement and a global icon in the 20th century.

Ali passed away on June 3, 2016, but his legacy continues to inspire millions worldwide.

Amateur Career

• Ali began boxing at the age of 12 and by the age of 18, he had won two national Golden Gloves titles and an Olympic gold medal.

Professional Career

• Ali turned professional in 1960 and quickly made a name for himself with his speed, agility, and charisma. He won his first world heavyweight title in 1964 against Sonny Liston.
• In 1967, Ali was stripped of his title and banned from boxing for three years due to his refusal to be drafted for military service in Vietnam. He returned to the ring in 1970 and in 1971, he fought Joe Frazier in what was billed as the 'Fight of the Century'. Ali lost that fight, but it was the beginning of a series of legendary bouts.
• Ali regained his title in 1974 in a bout known as the 'Rumble in the Jungle' against George Foreman. He went on to defend his title several times before retiring in 1981.

Olympic Career

• Ali's international career began when he won a gold medal in the light heavyweight division at the 1960 Rome Olympics.

• Style: Ali was known for his speed, agility, and footwork. He was an unorthodox fighter who relied on his quickness and skill rather than brute power.
• Signature Moves: Ali's famous 'Ali Shuffle' and 'Rope-a-Dope' tactics were part of his unique fighting style. He was also known for his quick and powerful jabs.

• Family: Ali was married four times and had nine children. His daughter Laila Ali also became a professional boxer.
• Activism: Ali was a civil rights activist and converted to Islam in 1964. He was known for his outspoken views on racial and social issues.

• Muhammad Ali is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records, but also for his charisma, activism, and influence both inside and outside of the ring. His impact on the sport of boxing and his status as a global icon continue to inspire millions around the world.

World Heavyweight Champion:

• Three times

Olympic Gold Medal:

• 1960 Rome Olympics in the light heavyweight division

Boxing Hall of Fame:

• Inducted in 1990

Presidential Medal of Freedom:

• Received in 2005 from President George W. Bush

Books

• Remnick, D. (1999) King of the World: Muhammad Ali and the Rise of an American Hero. New York: Random House.
• Ezra, M. (2009) Muhammad Ali: The Making of an Icon. Philadelphia: Temple University Press.

Websites

• BoxRec: Information about Muhammad Ali’s career and achievements. Available at: https://www.boxrec.com
• International Boxing Hall of Fame: Details about Ali’s induction and career. Available at: http://www.ibhof.com

Articles

• BBC Sport: Muhammad Ali: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.bbc.com/sport/boxing/36439575
• The Guardian: Muhammad Ali’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/muhammadali

Interviews and Documentaries

• When We Were Kings (1996): Directed by Leon Gast. This documentary provides a detailed look at Ali’s 'Rumble in the Jungle' fight against George Foreman.
• ESPN Interviews: Various interviews and features on Muhammad Ali, covering different aspects of his career. Available at: https://www.espn.com