Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali

ABOUT

Muhammad Ali was an American professional boxer, social activist, and cultural icon, widely regarded as one of the most influential sports personalities of the 20th century. Born as Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. on January 17, 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky, Ali's charisma, skill, and unique approach to boxing captivated the world both inside and outside the ring. He was known for his brash personality, poetic trash talk, and his ability to "float like a butterfly, sting like a bee."

BEFORE FAME

Ali began his boxing career at the age of 12 after his bike was stolen; he wanted to learn how to fight so he could beat up the thief. Under the guidance of Joe E. Martin, he picked up the sport and exhibited extraordinary talent from a young age. Ali captured a gold medal in the light heavyweight division at the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome, which marked the beginning of his rise to stardom. Shortly after, he turned professional under the mentorship of trainer and manager Angelo Dundee.

TRIVIA

• Muhammad Ali was initially named Cassius Clay after a 19th-century abolitionist, but he changed his name in 1964 after converting to Islam.
• Ali was known for his unorthodox fighting style, which included a combination of light footwork, speed, and precision punches.
• He was stripped of his boxing titles in 1967 after refusing to be drafted into the U.S. military during the Vietnam War, citing religious beliefs and opposition to the conflict.
• Ali became the first fighter to win the World Heavyweight Title three times.
• He was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1984, which had a significant impact on his later life, but he continued to be a prominent figure in various humanitarian efforts.

FAMILY LIFE

Muhammad Ali was married four times and had nine children, including two adopted. His first marriage was to Sonji Roi, which lasted from 1964 to 1966. He subsequently married Belinda Boyd (later known as Khalilah Ali) in 1967 and had four children with her before divorcing in 1976. His third marriage was to Veronica Porché, with whom he had two daughters, including Laila Ali, who also became a professional boxer. Ali's fourth and final marriage was to Yolanda “Lonnie” Williams in 1986, with whom he adopted a son named Asaad.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Ali's life intersected with many key figures in sports, politics, and entertainment. He had a famous rivalry with fellow boxers Joe Frazier and George Foreman, and his matches with them are some of the most celebrated in boxing history. Ali was close friends with Malcolm X before his assassination, and he strongly supported civil rights and social justice causes throughout his life. Additionally, Ali's legacy in the sport of boxing and his outspoken nature influenced countless athletes, such as Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather Jr. His impact was so profound that he remains an enduring symbol of strength, resilience, and conviction.

Muhammad Ali passed away on June 3, 2016, but his legacy continues to inspire millions around the world.