What is Muhammad Ali?
Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr., was one of the most influential figures of the 20th century. He was a three-time world heavyweight boxing champion, an Olympic gold medalist, a civil rights activist, and a philanthropist. Ali is considered one of the greatest boxers of all time and he was known for his outspokenness and his refusal to back down from a fight.
Early Life
Muhammad Ali was born in Louisville, Kentucky, on January 17, 1942. His father, Cassius Marcellus Clay Sr., was a sign painter and baptist minister, and his mother, Odessa Grady Clay, was a housewife. Ali was the oldest of two boys and two girls. His father nicknamed him “Cassius Clay” after the 19th-century abolitionist and politician Cassius Marcellus Clay.
Ali’s interest in boxing began when he was 12 years old. He was inspired to become a boxer after his bike was stolen and he vowed to beat up whoever stole it. In 1954, Ali started training with local boxing coach Joe Martin and began competing in amateur fights. In 1960, Ali won the light heavyweight gold medal at the Summer Olympics in Rome.
Professional Career
After the Olympics, Ali decided to turn professional. He made his professional debut in October 1960 and won his first 19 fights by knockout. In February 1964, he defeated Sonny Liston to become the world heavyweight champion at the age of 22.
Ali defended his title nine times, including victories over George Foreman, Joe Frazier, and Ken Norton. He also fought in three legendary bouts with Frazier, known as the “Thrilla in Manila”. Ali retired from boxing in 1981 with a record of 56-5-0.
Civil Rights Activism
In 1964, Ali converted to Islam and changed his name from Cassius Clay to Muhammad Ali. He also became an outspoken advocate for civil rights and racial justice. He was a vocal opponent of the Vietnam War and refused to be drafted in 1967, citing his religious beliefs. He was arrested, convicted of draft evasion, and stripped of his boxing titles.
However, Ali’s conviction was overturned in 1971 and he resumed his boxing career. He became a global symbol of courage and conviction and was widely admired for his brave stance against the war.
Legacy
Muhammad Ali was a larger-than-life figure who had an enormous impact on the world. He was a master of self-promotion and a master of the ring, and he used his fame to champion causes he believed in. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005 and was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2017.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Muhammad Ali's real name?
Muhammad Ali’s real name is Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr.
When was Muhammad Ali born?
Muhammad Ali was born on January 17, 1942.
What did Muhammad Ali do for a living?
Muhammad Ali was a professional boxer and a three-time world heavyweight champion.
How did Muhammad Ali become famous?
Muhammad Ali became famous for his boxing prowess and his outspokenness on civil rights issues. He also won the light heavyweight gold medal at the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome.
What was Muhammad Ali's religious affiliation?
Muhammad Ali was a Muslim. He converted to Islam in 1964 and changed his name from Cassius Clay to Muhammad Ali.
Where did Muhammad Ali live?
Muhammad Ali was born in Louisville, Kentucky, and lived there for most of his life. He also lived in Chicago, Miami, and Philadelphia at various points in his life.
What did Muhammad Ali do after he retired from boxing?
After he retired from boxing, Muhammad Ali became a philanthropist and a civil rights activist. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2017.
What was Muhammad Ali's record as a professional boxer?
Muhammad Ali had a record of 56 wins, 5 losses, and 0 draws as a professional boxer.
Who did Muhammad Ali fight in the famous "Thrilla in Manila" bout?
Muhammad Ali fought Joe Frazier in the famous “Thrilla in Manila” bout. The fight lasted 14 rounds and Ali won by technical knockout.
What was Muhammad Ali's stance on the Vietnam War?
Muhammad Ali was a vocal opponent of the Vietnam War. He refused to be drafted in 1967 and was arrested, convicted of draft evasion, and stripped of his boxing titles. His conviction was overturned in 1971.
What awards did Muhammad Ali receive?
Muhammad Ali received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2017. He was also awarded the International Boxing Hall of Fame’s James J. Walker Award in 2001.
What did Muhammad Ali do after his boxing career ended?
After his boxing career ended, Muhammad Ali maintained an active lifestyle. He continued to be a vocal advocate for civil rights and racial justice. He also founded the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky, which promotes peace, respect, and social responsibility.
When did Muhammad Ali die?
Muhammad Ali died on June 3, 2016, aged 74.