Early Life and Amateur Career
Growing up in the segregated South, Ali experienced racism firsthand. He was born into a family of modest means, and his father, Cassius Clay Sr., worked as a painter and sign maker, while his mother, Odessa O'Grady Clay, was a household maid. From an early age, Ali showed a talent for boxing, and began training with Fred Stoner, a local police officer, when he was just 12 years old. He quickly made a name for himself in the amateur boxing circuit, winning six Kentucky Golden Gloves championships, two National Golden Gloves championships, and an Amateur Athletic Union national title, all before he turned 18.
Ali's professional career began in 1960, after he won a gold medal in the light heavyweight division at the Rome Olympics. He turned pro soon after, and quickly made a name for himself as a skilled and charismatic fighter.
Early Professional Career
In his early years as a professional fighter, Ali faced tough competition, but he quickly established himself as a formidable force in the ring. He won his first 19 fights, 15 of them by knockout, before facing his first significant challenge in 1963, when he fought Henry Cooper, a British heavyweight champion. Ali was knocked down in the fourth round, but he managed to get back up and win the fight in the fifth round.
In 1964, Ali got his shot at the heavyweight title when he faced Sonny Liston, a fearsome fighter who had never been defeated in the ring. Ali was considered a long shot to win the fight, but he used his lightning-fast footwork and hands to avoid Liston's punches, and eventually wore him down. Liston quit on his stool after the sixth round, giving Ali his first heavyweight title.
Conversion to Islam and Political Activism
Shortly after winning the title, Ali announced that he had converted to Islam and changed his name from Cassius Clay to Muhammad Ali. He also became involved in political activism, speaking out against the Vietnam War and racial inequality in the United States. He famously declared, "I ain't got no quarrel with them Viet Cong," and refused to be drafted into the military, citing his religious beliefs and opposition to the war. As a result, he was stripped of his title and banned from boxing for three years.
During his exile from the ring, Ali continued to speak out against injustice, and became a symbol of resistance and rebellion for many young Americans. He also continued to train and work on his boxing skills, and when his ban was lifted in 1970, he returned to the ring with renewed focus and determination.
The Rumble in the Jungle
In 1974, Ali faced off against George Foreman in what would become known as the Rumble in the Jungle. Foreman was a fearsome fighter who had knocked out Joe Frazier, who had previously defeated Ali, in two brutal fights. Ali was considered an underdog going into the fight, but he used a strategy he called the "rope-a-dope," leaning against the ropes and letting Foreman tire himself out with punches. In the eighth round, Ali unleashed a series of devastating punches that knocked Foreman out, and Ali regained the heavyweight championship title.
The Thrilla in Manila
In 1975, Ali faced off against Joe Frazier for the third time, in what would become known as the Thrilla in Manila. The fight was a grueling and brutal affair, with both fighters taking and delivering punishing blows. Despite suffering from dehydration and exhaustion, Ali managed to rally in the later rounds and win the fight when Frazier's corner threw in the towel before the start of the 15th round.
Retirement and Legacy
Ali retired from boxing in 1981, with a record of 56 wins and 5 losses, and three heavyweight titles to his name. He was widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of all time, and his influence extended far beyond the world of sports. He was a symbol of black pride and resistance, a champion of civil rights and social justice, and an inspiration to millions around the world.
After retiring from boxing, Ali became a philanthropist and humanitarian, working to promote peace and understanding between people of different cultures and religions. He was also an advocate for Parkinson's disease, which he was diagnosed with in 1984, and he used his platform to raise awareness and funds for research.
Ali passed away on June 3, 2016, at the age of 74, but his legacy continues to inspire and uplift people around the world. He was a true champion, in and out of the ring, and his courage, determination, and spirit of service will always be remembered and celebrated.