Muhammad Ali: The Greatest of All Time

Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. on January 17, 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky, is celebrated as one of the most iconic and influential athletes in history.

Known for his prowess in the boxing ring and his outspoken social activism, Ali’s legacy extends far beyond his impressive 56-win record as a three-time heavyweight boxing champion.

This article delves into the multifaceted life of Muhammad Ali, exploring his early years, boxing career, personal life, and lasting impact on the world.

Early Life

Muhammad Ali’s journey began in the segregated South, where he encountered racial prejudice and discrimination from a young age. At 12, a twist of fate led him to boxing. After his bike was stolen, Ali expressed a desire to fight the thief. Officer Joe Martin, who also trained young boxers, encouraged him to learn the sport properly. Under Martin’s guidance, Ali began his boxing career, winning his first amateur bout in 1954. He went on to secure victories in major tournaments, including the Golden Gloves and the National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions.

Olympic Gold

In 1960, Ali made a name for himself on the global stage by winning the Olympic gold medal in boxing in Rome. His victory in the light heavyweight division marked the beginning of a stellar career. Known for his lightning speed and agility, Ali’s performance earned him widespread acclaim and solidified his status as a rising star in the sport.

Relationship with Malcolm X and Conversion to Islam

Ali’s relationship with Malcolm X significantly shaped his personal and professional life. Meeting Malcolm X in 1962, Ali was deeply influenced by his fearless rhetoric and soon became involved with the Nation of Islam.

Following his victory over Sonny Liston in 1964, Ali announced his conversion to Islam and adopted the name Muhammad Ali. His relationship with Malcolm X, however, deteriorated, particularly after Malcolm X’s assassination in 1965. Despite this, Ali’s conversion to orthodox Islam in the 1970s marked a profound shift in his personal beliefs.

Vietnam War Protest and Supreme Court Case

Ali’s refusal to serve in the Vietnam War due to his religious beliefs led to a major legal battle. Drafted in 1967, he was arrested for refusing military service and stripped of his boxing titles. The U.S. Supreme Court eventually overturned his conviction in 1971, allowing him to resume his boxing career after missing several prime years.

“How come is everything white?

How is it that Tarzan, a white man, is the king of the jungle in Africa? How can he talk to the animals but none of the Black men — who have lived there for centuries — are able to communicate with them?”

—Muhammad Ali 1971 pic.twitter.com/fYLklVjFkc

— Vala Afshar (@ValaAfshar) August 1, 2024

This period of activism highlighted Ali’s commitment to his principles and his willingness to face significant personal and professional consequences for his beliefs.

Muhammad Ali’s Boxing Record

Ali’s boxing career is legendary, marked by his unique style and remarkable victories. His record of 56 wins, five losses, and 37 knockouts includes some of the most iconic fights in boxing history:

• Sonny Liston (1964): Ali’s victory over Liston earned him his first heavyweight title.
• Joe Frazier (1971, 1974, 1975): Their bouts, including the “Fight of the Century” and the “Thrilla in Manila,” are celebrated as some of the greatest in boxing history.
• George Foreman (1974): In the “Rumble in the Jungle,” Ali used his “rope-a-dope” strategy to defeat the undefeated Foreman and reclaim the title.
• Leon Spinks (1978): Ali became the first boxer to win the heavyweight championship three times with a victory over Spinks.

Ali retired in 1981 after a final loss to Trevor Berbick, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence the sport.

Wives, Children, and Family

Ali was married four times and had nine children. His first marriage to Sonji Roi ended in 1965. His second wife, Belinda Boyd, bore him four children before their divorce in 1977. Ali’s third wife, Veronica Porché, was with him from 1977 to 1986 and gave birth to two daughters, including Laila Ali, who became a champion boxer herself. His fourth and final wife, Yolanda (Lonnie) Williams, married Ali in 1986, and they had one son, Asaad.

Ali’s family includes grandchildren who have made their own marks in sports and academia. His grandson Nico Walsh Ali became a professional boxer, while Biaggio Ali Walsh excelled in football and mixed martial arts. Jacob Ali-Wertheimer competed in track and field at Harvard University.

Parkinson’s Diagnosis

In 1984, Ali announced that he had Parkinson’s disease, a condition that affected his motor skills and speech. Despite the challenges, Ali remained active in public life and continued his philanthropic efforts. He played a key role in raising funds for the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center and witnessed significant moments in history, including the inauguration of President Barack Obama in 2009.

Philanthropy

Ali’s post-boxing career was marked by extensive philanthropic work. He supported numerous causes, including the Special Olympics and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. In 1996, he lit the Olympic cauldron at the Summer Olympics in Atlanta, a moment of profound significance. Ali’s humanitarian efforts extended globally, and he was named a United Nations Messenger of Peace in 1998 for his work in developing nations.

Awards

Ali received numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005 from President George W. Bush. He also earned the President’s Award from the NAACP in 2009, joining a distinguished list of recipients.

Muhammad Ali Center

In 2005, Ali opened the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky. The center serves as a multicultural hub and museum dedicated to Ali’s life and achievements. It aims to inspire people to reach their full potential and to foster mutual respect among diverse communities.

Declining Health and Death

Ali spent his final years in Paradise Valley, Arizona, dealing with health issues such as spinal stenosis and pneumonia. He died on June 3, 2016, in Scottsdale, Arizona, at the age of 74. His passing marked the end of an era, but his legacy continues to inspire.

Funeral and Memorial Service

Ali’s funeral and memorial service in Louisville were grand tributes to his life and impact. The three-day event included a public arts festival, an Islamic prayer program, and a memorial service attended by around 20,000 people. The service featured speakers from various faiths and backgrounds, celebrating Ali’s life and contributions to society.

Movies about Muhammad Ali

Several films and documentaries have been made about Muhammad Ali, capturing different aspects of his life and career. Notable examples include “Ali” (2001), starring Will Smith, and “When We Were Kings” (1996), a documentary about the “Rumble in the Jungle.”

Quotes

Ali’s words and quotes have become legendary, reflecting his confidence and charisma. Some of his most famous quotes include:

• “I am the greatest, I said that even before I knew I was.”
• “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee.”
• “It’s not bragging if you can back it up.”

Conclusion

Muhammad Ali’s life was a testament to the power of perseverance, activism, and excellence. From his boxing triumphs to his humanitarian efforts, Ali’s legacy endures as a symbol of courage and determination. His contributions to sports and society will continue to inspire future generations.