Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali was an American professional boxer and social activist widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of the 20th century.
Muhammad Ali was an American professional boxer and social activist widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of the 20th century. He won Olympic gold in 1960, became world heavyweight champion for the first time in 1964, and later regained the title twice. Ali was also known for his refusal to be inducted into the U.S. military during the Vietnam War and for his humanitarian work.
Early life and amateur boxing
Ali was born in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1942 and began boxing at age 12. He rose through the amateur ranks and won Olympic gold in light heavyweight boxing at the 1960 Rome Olympics.
Professional boxing career
Ali turned professional after the Olympics and won his first world heavyweight title in 1964 by defeating Sonny Liston. He later regained the title in 1974 and 1978, and finished with a career record of 56 wins and 5 losses.
Civil rights and activism
Ali became known for his outspoken views on race, religion, and war. His refusal to enter the U.S. military during the Vietnam War led to a suspension from boxing and the stripping of his titles.
Later life and legacy
After retiring in 1981, Ali devoted much of his time to humanitarian work and public appearances. He remained a globally recognized cultural figure and was honoured with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005.
Key facts
- Ali began boxing as a child and won a gold medal at the 1960 Rome Olympics.
- He defeated Sonny Liston in 1964 to become world heavyweight champion.
- Ali was stripped of his title after refusing induction into the U.S. military during the Vietnam War.
- He regained the heavyweight title in 1974 and again in 1978, becoming the first three-time world heavyweight champion.
- Ali retired from boxing in 1981 and later focused on philanthropy and public advocacy.
Muhammad Ali is a major figure in international sports history and is widely studied and remembered by Canadian boxing fans, historians, and readers interested in civil rights and anti-war activism.
Frequently asked questions
What was Muhammad Ali's birth name?
What was Muhammad Ali known for in boxing?
Did Muhammad Ali win an Olympic medal?
Why was Muhammad Ali suspended from boxing?
When did Muhammad Ali retire?
What honours did Muhammad Ali receive?
References
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Muhammad-Ali-boxerSupports: Birth name, birth/death dates and places, Olympic gold medal, heavyweight titles, refusal of induction, later title wins, retirement, and legacy.
- Biography.com — https://www.biography.com/athletes/muhammad-aliSupports: Birth details, Olympic gold medal, heavyweight championship, suspension, retirement, career record, and Presidential Medal of Freedom.
- HISTORY — https://www.history.com/articles/muhammad-aliSupports: Fighter of the Year honours, Hall of Fame induction, family details, and death date.
- U.S. National Archives — https://www.archives.gov/research/african-americans/individuals/muhammad-aliSupports: Olympic gold medal, name change, Vietnam War refusal, suspension, activism, and final professional record.