Regarded as one of the greatest athletes of the 20th century, Muhammad Ali was much more than a boxing legend. He was a man of conviction who didn't shy away from standing up for his principles, both in and beyond the boxing ring.
Born as Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. on January 17, 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky, Ali began boxing at the age of 12. His talent was quickly noticed and he went on to win a gold medal in the light heavyweight division at the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome. His professional boxing career started just months after his Olympic success.
Ali was renowned for his quick, graceful, and unconventional style in the ring which featured swift footwork and powerful punches. His fighting style, coupled with his charismatic personality, made him a sensational figure in the world of sports. He won the heavyweight title three times and successfully defended his title 19 times.
Ali was not just a boxing icon, he was a social and political figure as well. In 1964, he converted to Islam, changing his name from Cassius Clay to Muhammad Ali. He cited his religious beliefs for refusing to be inducted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. His refusal resulted in him being stripped of his boxing titles and banned from boxing for three years. He was later vindicated by a unanimous ruling in his favor by the U.S. Supreme Court.
As a champion of civil rights, Ali believed in standing up for one's beliefs, no matter the circumstances. This was a belief that extended beyond his professional career into his personal life, and Ali became an inspirational figure both inside and beyond the boxing ring.
In his later life, Ali battled Parkinson's disease, but that didn't stop him from being an active figure in public life. He was known for his charitable work, particularly in developing countries. He also took part in efforts to promote peace and humanitarian causes around the world.
Ali passed away on June 3, 2016, but his legacy continues to inspire people around the globe. His life wasn't just about boxing, but about fighting against social injustices and standing up for what one believes in. His indomitable spirit, both in and out of the ring, made him a legendary figure whose influence transcended the domain of sports and affirmed him as a truly global icon.
