Sports

Muhammad Ali

Born January 17, 1942 · Louisville, Kentucky · Joined the Ancestors June 3, 2016

The greatest boxer of all time, Muhammad Ali was more than a champion — he was a cultural revolutionary who used his platform to fight for justice, peace, and the dignity of Black people worldwide.

Known For

Three-time heavyweight champion

Born As

Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr.

Legacy

Activist, humanitarian, icon

Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. in Louisville, Kentucky, began boxing at age 12 after his bicycle was stolen and a police officer suggested he learn to fight. By 18, he had won an Olympic gold medal at the 1960 Rome Games.

In 1964, at just 22, he shocked the world by defeating Sonny Liston to become heavyweight champion. Shortly after, he announced his conversion to Islam and changed his name to Muhammad Ali. In 1967, he refused induction into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War on religious and moral grounds. He was stripped of his titles and banned from boxing for three years.

Ali returned to reclaim his championship, culminating in legendary fights like the Rumble in the Jungle against George Foreman and the Thrilla in Manila against Joe Frazier. Beyond boxing, he became a global ambassador for peace, humanitarian causes, and the power of self-belief.