Muhammad Ali, Boxing, Born 1942
Muhammad Ali, Boxing, Born 1942
Muhammad Ali (born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr.) was a three-time World Heavyweight Boxing Champion and one of the most iconic sports figures of the 20th century. He was born in 1942 in Louisville, Kentucky.
Ali began boxing at the age of 12 and went on to become an Olympic gold medalist in 1960.
Ali was crowned the World Heavyweight Champion for the first time in 1964. He successfully defended his title six times before being stripped of his championship in 1967 after refusing to serve in the US Military.
He regained his title in 1974 and retired in 1981 after beating rival boxer Larry Holmes.
He was known for his boxing prowess and showmanship. His saying “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee” became one of the most famous phrases in the world.
Ali was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005 and the BBC Sports Personality of the Century in 1999.
In 1984, Ali was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, which was believed to be a result of the many blows he received to his head during his career.
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