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Community & Society
Muhammad Ali:
Boxer
Muhammad Ali was born Cassius Clay and grew up a devout Baptist. His interest in boxing began at 12 when someone stole his bicycle and the police officer he reported it to suggested he learn to fight for himself. He developed a boxing style that capitalized on his speed, leading him to dodge punches. He became an Olympic champion at 18 and went on to win three world heavyweight championships. Clay converted to Islam and changed his name to Ali. He became a symbol of resistance to the Vietnam War when he refused induction into the U.S. Army on religious grounds. A consummate showman, Ali is one of the most famous people of the 20th century. He now suffers from Parkinson's disease.
FULL NAME
Muhammad Ali (Born: Cassius Marcellus Clay)
BORN
January 17, 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky.
CAREER
According to The Learning Network Web site: 1960 Olympic light heavyweight champion; three-time world heavyweight champ (1964-67, 1974-78,1978-79); defeated Sonny Liston (1964), George Foreman (1974) and Leon Spinks (1978) for title; fought Joe Frazier in 3 memorable bouts (1971-75), winning twice; stripped of title in 1967 after conviction for refusing induction into U.S. Army; verdict reversed by Supreme Court in 1971; career record of 56-5 with 37 KOs and 19 successful title defenses.
HONORS
Lit the flaming cauldron to signal the beginning of the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta
PERSONAL
Ali is the father of nine children and has been married four times, according to biography.com.
