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			{{Short description|American boxer and social activist (1942–2016)}}
	{{redirect-multi|2|Cassius Clay|Mohammad Ali|other names|Cassius Marcellus Clay (disambiguation){{!}}Cassius Marcellus Clay|and|Mohammad Ali (disambiguation)}}
			{{Other uses|Muhammad Ali (disambiguation)}}
	{{Use mdy dates|date=November 2016}}
			{{Redirect|Cassius Clay}}
			{{Redirect|I am the greatest|other uses|I Am the Greatest (disambiguation)}}
			{{Pp-vandalism|small=yes}}
			{{Use American English|date=March 2023}}
			{{Use mdy dates|date=September 2024}}
	{{Infobox person		{{Infobox person
			| name = <!-- defaults to article title when left blank -->
	| name = Muhammad Ali
	| image = Muhammad Ali NYWTS.jpg{{!}}border		| image = Muhammad Ali, gtfy.00140 (cropped).jpg <!--See talk page before changing image-->
	| caption = Ali in 1967		| caption = Ali in 1975
	| birth_name = Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr.		| birth_name = Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr.
	| birth_date = {{birth date|1942|1|17}}		| birth_date = {{birth date|1942|1|17}}
	| birth_place = ], U.S.		| birth_place = ], U.S.
	| death_date = {{death date and age|2016|6|3|1942|1|17}}		| death_date = {{death date and age|2016|6|3|1942|1|17}}
	| death_place = ], U.S.		| death_place = ], U.S.
			| resting_place = ], Louisville
	| death_cause = ]
			| monuments = {{plainlist|
	| resting_place = ], Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.
			* ]
	| monuments =
			* ]
	{{hlist
	|]		* ]
	|Muhammad Ali Mural, Los Angeles, CA<ref>{{cite news		* ]
			}}
	|title=Muhammad Ali: The greatest monument to the great one
			| education = ] (1958)
	|url=http://www.newshub.co.nz/sport/muhammad-ali-the-greatest-monument-to-the-great-one-2011033110
			| occupation = {{flatlist|
	|accessdate=June 4, 2016
			* ]
	|publisher=MediaWorks TV
			* ]
	|date=March 31, 2011
			* ]
	}}</ref>
			* ]
	}}
			* ]
	| other_names = {{ubl|The Greatest|The People's Champion|The Louisville Lip}}AMAZING LIIE A BANNANA🤗🤗🤗🤗
			* ]
	| education = ] (1958)<ref name="tfp" />
			* ]
	| denomination = ]{{efn|Ali's religious affiliation at death. See article for progression of Ali's religious beliefs and affiliations.}}
			* ]
	| criminal_charge = ]<ref name="history">{{cite web
			}}
	|title=Muhammad Ali refuses Army induction – Apr 28, 1967
			| spouse = {{plainlist|
	|url=http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/muhammad-ali-refuses-army-induction
			* {{marriage|Sonji Roi|1964|1966|end=div.}}
	|publisher=HISTORY.com
			* {{marriage|]|1967|1976|end=div.}}
	|accessdate=June 4, 2016
			* {{marriage|Veronica Porché|1977|1986|end=div.}}
	}}</ref>
			* {{marriage|Yolanda "Lonnie" Williams|1986|<!--Omission per template instructions-->}}
	| criminal_penalty = Five years in prison (not served), fined $10,000 and banned from boxing for three years<ref name="history" />
			}}
	| criminal_status = Conviction overturned<ref name="history" />
			| partner =
	| spouse = {{ubl
			| children = 9, including ] {{See below|]}}
	|{{marriage|Sonji Roi<br />|1964|1966|end=div.}}
			| citizenship = {{plainlist|
	|{{marriage|]<br />|1967|1977|end=div.}}
			* ]
	|{{marriage|]<br />|1977|1986|end=div.}}
			* ] (honorary)
	|{{marriage|Yolanda Williams<br />|1986|2016|end=his death}}<ref name="tfp">{{cite web
			}}
	|title=Muhammad Ali Biography
			| parents = {{plainlist|
	|url=http://www.thefamouspeople.com/profiles/muhammad-ali-2411.php
			* ]
	|publisher=thefamouspeople.com
			* ]
	|accessdate=June 4, 2016
	}}</ref>
	}}
	| partner =
	| children = 9, including ]<ref name="tfp" />
	| parents = {{plainlist|
	*]
	*]<ref name="tfp" />
	}}		}}
			| relatives = {{plainlist|
	| awards =
			* ] (brother)
	{{Collapsible list
			* ] (great-great-great grandfather)
	| title = List of awards
			* ] (grandson)
	| 6-time ]
	| 3-time ''Ring'' heavyweight champion (1964–71, 1974–78, 1978–79)
	| 3-time ] heavyweight champion (1964–68, 1974–78, 1978–79)
	| 2-time ] heavyweight champion (1964–69, 1974–78)
	| 3-time ] heavyweight champion (1964–68, 1974–78, 1978–79)
	| 3-time ] heavyweight champion (1970–71, 1971–73, 1973–74)
	| 2-time ] champion (1959, 1960)
	| 2-time National ] champion
	| 6-time Kentucky Golden Gloves champion (1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960)
	| ] light heavyweight champion (1960)
	| ] (1974)
	| '']'' Athlete of the Year (1974)
	| International Press Athlete of the Year (1974)
	| 6-time ] (1963, 1965, 1971, 1974, 1975, 1978)
	| 3-time ] (1965, 1974, 1975)
	| ]
	| ]
	| ] Double Helix Medal Honoree (2006)
	| Martin Luther King Memorial Award (1970)
	| ]
	| ]<ref>{{cite web
	|author1=Office of the Press Secretary
	|title=Citations for Recipients of the 2005 Presidential Medal of Freedom
	|url=https://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/news/releases/2005/11/20051109-10.html
	|publisher=The White House, George W. Bush
	|accessdate=June 6, 2016
	|location=Washington D.C., U.S.
	|date=November 9, 2005
	}}</ref>
	| ]<ref>{{cite web
	|title=Muhammad Ali
	|url=http://www.ibhof.com/pages/about/inductees/modern/ali.html
	|publisher=ibhof.com
	|accessdate=June 6, 2016
	}}</ref>
	| ]<ref>{{cite news
	|last1=Bulman |first1=May
	|title=Why Muhammad Ali's star is on the wall, not the Walk of Fame
	|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/muhammad-ali-death-hollywood-star-why-is-it-on-the-wall-not-walk-of-fame-a7065186.html
	|accessdate=June 6, 2016
	|work=The Independent
	|date=June 4, 2016
	}}</ref>
	}}		}}
			| awards = ]
	| website = {{URL|http://muhammadali.com/}}
			| website = {{URL|https://web.archive.org/web/20181112191859/http://muhammadali.com:80/|muhammadali.com}}
	| module =
	{{Infobox boxer		| module = {{Infobox boxer
	| embed = yes		| embed = yes
	| name = Muhammad Ali		| name = Muhammad Ali
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	| reach = 78 in<ref name=BoxRec />		| reach = 78 in<ref name=BoxRec />
	| weight = ]		| weight = ]
	| style = ]<!-- This is a boxing term, not a religious one -->		| style = ]<!-- This is a boxing term, not a religious one -->
	| total = 61		| total = 61
	| wins = 56		| wins = 56
	| KO = 37		| KO = 37
	| losses = 5		| losses = 5
			| nickname = {{plainlist|
	| medaltemplates =
			*The Greatest
	{{MedalSport | Men's ]}}
			*The People's Champion
	{{MedalCountry | {{USA}} }}
			*The Louisville Lip
	{{MedalOlympics}}
	{{MedalGold | ] | ]}}
	}}		}}
			| medaltemplates =
			{{MedalSport | Men's amateur boxing}}
			{{MedalCountry | {{Flagu|United States}} }}
			{{MedalCompetition | ]}}
			{{MedalGold | ] | ]}}
			{{MedalCompetition | ]}}
			{{MedalGold | 1959 Chicago | ]}}
			{{MedalGold | 1960 New York | ]}}
			{{MedalCompetition | ]}}
			{{MedalGold | 1959 Chicago | Light-heavyweight}}
			{{MedalGold | 1960 Chicago | Light-heavyweight}}
			{{MedalCompetition | ]}}
			{{MedalGold | 1959 Toledo | ]}}
			{{MedalGold | 1960 Toledo | Light-heavyweight}}
			}}
			| signature = Muhammad Ali signature.svg
	}}		}}
			'''Muhammad Ali''' ({{IPAc-en|ɑː|ˈ|l|iː}};<ref>{{cite LPD|3|Ali |quote=the former boxer Muhammad Ali pronounces {{IPA|ɑːˈliː}}}}</ref> born '''Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr.'''; January 17, 1942 – June 3, 2016) was an American ] and social activist.{{efn|"boxing champion and '''activist'''";<ref>{{Cite news |last=Diaz |first=Johnny |date=2024-06-04 |title=Muhammad Ali's Childhood Home Goes on the Market |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2024/06/04/sports/muhammad-ali-childhood-home-sale.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240604214318/https://www.nytimes.com/2024/06/04/sports/muhammad-ali-childhood-home-sale.html |archive-date=2024-06-04 |access-date=2024-12-01 |work=]}}</ref> "one of the country’s most recognized anti-war '''activists'''"<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Gorsevski |first1=Ellen W. |last2=Butterworth |first2=Michael L. |date=2011-02-01 |title=Muhammad Ali's Fighting Words: The Paradox of Violence in Nonviolent Rhetoric |url=https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00335630.2010.536563 |journal=Quarterly Journal of Speech |volume=97 |issue=1 |page=57 |doi=10.1080/00335630.2010.536563 |issn=0033-5630}}</ref> "professional boxer and social '''activist'''";<ref>{{Cite EBO|title=Muhammad Ali|url=https://www.britannica.com/biography/Muhammad-Ali-boxer|access-date=2024-12-01|first=Thomas|last=Hauser}}</ref> "the professional boxer and '''activist'''";<ref>{{Cite news |last=Ahmed |first=Shanzeh |date=2024-02-22 |title=Daughter of Muhammad Ali celebrates suburban mosque's 50th anniversary with a ceremony to honor the boxing legend |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2024/02/22/islamic-foundation-muhammad-ali/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240301165803/https://www.chicagotribune.com/2024/02/22/islamic-foundation-muhammad-ali/ |archive-date=2024-03-01 |access-date=2024-12-01 |work=]}}</ref> "Muhammad Ali serves as reminder that radical '''activist''' athletes can become mainstreamed."<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Townsend |first1=Stephen |last2=Osmond |first2=Gary |last3=Phillips |first3=Murray G. |date=2018-07-24 |title='Where Cassius Clay Ends, Muhammad Ali Begins': Sportspeople, Political Activism, and Methodology |url=https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/09523367.2018.1523146 |journal=The International Journal of the History of Sport |volume=35 |issue=11 |page=1150 |doi=10.1080/09523367.2018.1523146 |issn=0952-3367}}</ref>}} A global cultural icon, widely known by the epithet, “The Greatest," he is frequently cited as the greatest ] boxer of all time. He held the '']'' magazine heavyweight title from 1964 to 1970, was the undisputed champion from 1974 to 1978, and was the ] and ''Ring'' heavyweight champion from 1978 to 1979. In 1999, he was named ] by '']'' and the ] by the ].
	'''Muhammad Ali''' ({{IPAc-en|ɑː|ˈ|l|iː}};<ref>{{cite news|url=http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/ali |title=Ali|work=]}}</ref> born '''Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr.''';<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/boxing/2016/07/11/muhammad-ali-name-change-cassius-clay/86956544/|title=Why Muhammad Ali never legally changed name from Cassius Clay|access-date=July 12, 2016}}</ref> January 17, 1942 – June 3, 2016) was an American ] and ]. He was widely regarded as one of the most significant and celebrated sports figures of the 20th century. From early in his career, Ali was known as an inspiring, controversial, and polarizing figure both inside and outside the ring.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://history1900s.about.com/od/people/a/muhammadali_2.htm |title=Muhammad Ali – Biography of Muhammad Ali – Page 2 |publisher=History1900s.about.com |accessdate=September 5, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Cagle|first=Jess|title=Ali: Lord of the Ring|url=http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1001498,00.html|work=]|date=December 17, 2001|accessdate=September 5, 2011}}</ref>
	Cassius Clay was born and raised in ], and began training as an ] when he was 12 years old. At age 18, he won a gold medal in the ] division at the ] in Rome, after which he turned professional later that year. At age 22 in 1964, he won the ], ] and ] titles from ] in ]. Clay then converted to ] and changed his name from Cassius Clay, which he called his "]", to Muhammad Ali. He set an example of racial pride for ] and resistance to white domination during the ].<ref name="HauserThomas">{{cite news|last1=Hauser|first1=Thomas|title=The Importance of Muhammad Ali|url=http://www.gilderlehrman.org/history-by-era/civil-rights-movement/essays/importance-muhammad-ali|publisher=Gilder Lehrman Institute}}</ref><ref name="hollowverse">{{cite web|title=The religion and politics of Muhammad Ali|url=http://hollowverse.com/muhammad-ali/|website=Hollowverse|publisher=MK Safi|accessdate=June 4, 2016|ref=hollowverse}}</ref>		Born and raised in ], he began training as an amateur boxer at age 12. At 18, he won a gold medal in the ] division at the ] and turned professional later that year. He joined the ] in the early 1960s, but later disavowed it in the mid-1970s. He won the world heavyweight championship, defeating ] in ] on February 25, 1964, at age 22. During that year, he denounced his birth name as a "]" and formally changed his name to Muhammad Ali. In 1967, Ali refused to be drafted into the military, owing to ] and ethical ], and was found guilty of ] and stripped of his boxing titles. He stayed out of prison while ] to the ], where his conviction was overturned in 1971. He did not fight for nearly four years and lost a period of peak performance as an athlete. Ali's actions as a ] to the Vietnam War made him an icon for the larger ] generation, and became a prominent, high-profile figure of racial pride for ] during the ] and throughout his career.
			He fought in several historic boxing matches, including his highly publicized fights with Sonny Liston, ] (including the ], the biggest boxing event up until then), the ], and his fight with ] in ]. Ali thrived in the spotlight at a time when many boxers let their managers do the talking, and he became renowned for his provocative and outlandish persona. He was famous for ]ing, often ] with rhyme schemes and ], and has been recognized as a pioneer in ]. He often predicted in which round he would knock out his opponent. As a boxer, Ali was known for his unorthodox movement, fancy footwork, head movement, and ] technique, among others.
	In 1966, two years after winning the heavyweight title, Ali further antagonized the white establishment in the U.S. by refusing to be ] into the U.S. military, citing his religious beliefs and opposition to American involvement in the ].<ref name="HauserThomas"/><ref name="Roberts">{{cite book|last1=Roberts|first1=Randy|title=Winning is the Only Thing: Sports in America Since 1945|date=1991|publisher=Johns Hopkins University Press|pages=171–172}}</ref> He was eventually arrested, found guilty of draft evasion charges and stripped of his boxing titles. He successfully ] in the ], which overturned his conviction in 1971, by which time he had not fought for nearly four years—losing a period of peak performance as an athlete. Ali's actions as a ] to the war made him an icon for the larger ] generation.<ref>{{cite news|last=Hallett |first=Alison |url=http://www.portlandmercury.com/portland/not-so-fast/Content?oid=10883366 |title=Not So Fast |newspaper=Portland Mercury |accessdate=December 27, 2013}}</ref><ref name="nytimes1">{{cite news| url=http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/21/sports/in-alis-voice-from-the-past-a-stand-for-the-ages.html | work=The New York Times | first=William C. | last=Rhoden | title=In Ali's Voice From the Past, a Stand for the Ages | date=June 20, 2013}}</ref>
			Outside boxing, Ali attained success as a ] artist, releasing two studio albums: '']'' (1963) and '']'' (1976). Both albums received ] nominations. He also featured as an actor and writer, releasing two autobiographies. Ali retired from boxing in 1981 and focused on religion, philanthropy, and activism. In 1984, he made public his diagnosis of ], which some reports attributed to boxing-related injuries, though he and his specialist physicians disputed this. He remained an active public figure globally, but in his later years made fewer public appearances as his condition worsened, and was cared for by his family.
	Ali is regarded as one of the leading heavyweight boxers of the 20th century. He remains the only three-time ] heavyweight champion, having won the title in 1964, 1974 and 1978. Between February 25, 1964, and September 19, 1964, Ali reigned as the ] heavyweight champion. He is the only boxer to be named ] six times. He was ranked as the greatest athlete of the 20th century by '']'' and the ] by the BBC. ] '']'' ranked him the third greatest athlete of the 20th century. Nicknamed "The Greatest", he was involved in several historic boxing matches.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://espn.go.com/sports/boxing/topics/_/page/muhammad-ali | publisher=ESPN | title=Muhammad Ali | date=January 20, 2012 | accessdate=January 29, 2012}}</ref> Notable among these were the first Liston fight; the "]", "]" and the "]" versus his rival ]; and "]" versus ].
			==Early life==
	At a time when most fighters let their managers do the talking, Ali thrived in—and indeed craved—the spotlight, where he was often provocative and outlandish.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTr-p-Y4P00 |title=Muhammad Ali – press conference 1974 |publisher=YouTube |date=September 26, 2012 |accessdate=November 5, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JwPPM_vaNrI |title=Muhammad Ali – Pre Liston Poetry & Highlights |publisher=YouTube |date=February 12, 2011 |accessdate=November 5, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6Hey54O6Qs |title=Muhammad Ali Famous Interview After Defeating Foreman |publisher=YouTube |date=January 6, 2010 |accessdate=November 5, 2013}}</ref> He was known for ], and often ] with ]s and spoken word ], both for his trash talking in boxing and as political poetry for his activism, anticipating elements of ] and ].<ref name="nytimes2"/><ref name="rollingstone1"/><ref name="rollingstone2"/> As a musician, Ali recorded two ] albums and a ] song, and received two ] nominations.<ref name="rollingstone2"/> As an actor, he performed in several films and a ] musical. Ali wrote two autobiographies, one during and one after his boxing career.
			Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr.<ref>{{cite web |last=Peter |first=Josh |date=July 11, 2016 |title=Why Muhammad Ali never legally changed name from Cassius Clay |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/boxing/2016/07/11/muhammad-ali-name-change-cassius-clay/86956544/ |access-date=July 12, 2016 |work=USA Today |archive-date=July 11, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160711220529/http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/boxing/2016/07/11/muhammad-ali-name-change-cassius-clay/86956544/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|k|æ|ʃ|ə|s}}) was born on January 17, 1942, in ].<ref name="greatath" /> He had one brother. He was named after his father, ] (1912–1990), who had a sister and four brothers<ref>{{cite news |title=Barber Can Relax Hair |url=http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=PI&s_site=philly&p_multi=PI&p_theme=realcities&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0EB32F2545452CEB&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |work=] |date=October 15, 1997 |access-date=September 4, 2009 |archive-date=October 25, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121025011348/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=PI&s_site=philly&p_multi=PI&p_theme=realcities&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0EB32F2545452CEB&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Timesobit>{{cite news |title=Cassius Marcellus Clay Sr., Former Champion's Father, 77 |url=https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C0CEFDA1230F933A25751C0A966958260 |agency=Associated Press |work=The New York Times |date=February 10, 1990 |access-date=September 4, 2009 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031223019/https://www.nytimes.com/1990/02/10/obituaries/cassius-marcellus-clay-sr-former-champion-s-father-77.html |url-status=live }}</ref> and who himself was named in honor of the 19th-century ] politician and staunch ] ], also from the state of Kentucky. Clay's father's paternal grandparents were John Clay and Sallie Anne Clay; Clay's sister Eva claimed that Sallie was a native of ].<ref>{{cite book |last=Egerton |first=John |author-link=John Egerton (journalist) |url={{GBurl|id=O6YFLYjAgcQC|p=134}} |title=Shades of Gray: Dispatches from the Modern South |publisher=] |year=1991 |isbn=978-0-8071-1705-7 |page=134 |access-date=June 24, 2016}}</ref> He was a descendant of slaves of the ], and was predominantly of African descent, with Irish<ref name="Great-grandfather emigrated from Ennis, County Clare, Ireland">{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-36452554 |title=Muhammad Ali: Boxer's ancestral Irish town pays tribute after death |publisher=BBC |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=June 4, 2016 |archive-date=June 7, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160607080346/http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-36452554 |url-status=live }}</ref> and English family heritage.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/boxing/1810535.stm |title=Ali has Irish ancestry |work=BBC News |date=February 9, 2002 |access-date=August 5, 2009 |archive-date=June 7, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090607104040/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/boxing/1810535.stm |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Reitwiesner |first=Williams Addams |title=Ancestry of Muhammad Ali |url=http://www.wargs.com/other/ali.html |author-link=William Addams Reitwiesner |access-date=May 1, 2011 |archive-date=October 22, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071022045918/http://wargs.com/other/ali.html |url-status=live }}</ref> His maternal great-grandfather, Abe Grady, emigrated from ], ], Ireland.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.irishcentral.com/roots/muhammad-ali-irish-roots|title=Muhammad Ali's Irish roots|date=June 3, 2020|website=IrishCentral.com|access-date=February 14, 2021|archive-date=December 22, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221222211528/https://www.irishcentral.com/roots/muhammad-ali-irish-roots|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-36452554|title=Muhammad Ali: Boxer's ancestral Irish town pays tribute after death|work=BBC News|date=June 4, 2016|access-date=June 22, 2018|archive-date=July 27, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180727152023/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-36452554|url-status=live}}</ref> ] performed in 2018 showed that, through his paternal grandmother, Clay was a descendant of the former slave ], who had been chosen from the building crew as the model of a freed man for the '']'', and was the subject of abolitionist ]'s book, ''The Story of Archer Alexander: From Slavery to Freedom''.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2018/10/02/dna-evidence-links-muhammad-ali-heroic-slave-family-says/ |title=DNA evidence links Muhammad Ali to heroic slave, family says |newspaper=Washington Post |access-date=October 3, 2018 |archive-date=April 4, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190404082516/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2018/10/02/dna-evidence-links-muhammad-ali-heroic-slave-family-says/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
			His father was a sign and billboard painter,<ref name="greatath">{{cite book |last=Johnson |first=Rafer |title=Great Athletes |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TnIAPwAACAAJ |edition=revised |volume=1 |year=2002 |publisher=Salem Press |isbn=978-1-58765-008-6 |pages=38–41 |access-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031223020/https://books.google.com/books?id=TnIAPwAACAAJ |url-status=live }}</ref> and his mother, ] (1917–1994), was a domestic helper. Although Cassius Sr. was a ], he allowed Odessa to bring up both Cassius Jr. and his younger brother, ] (later renamed Rahaman Ali), as ].<ref name="Hauser 2004 p14">{{Harvnb|Hauser|2004|p=14}}</ref> Cassius Jr. attended ] in Louisville. He was ], which led to difficulties in reading and writing, at school and for much of his life.<ref name="Eig">{{cite book |last=Eig |first=Jonathan |title=Ali: A Life: Shortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year 2017 |date=2017 |publisher=] |isbn=978-1-4711-5596-3 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=JzjeDQAAQBAJ |access-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031223021/https://books.google.com/books?id=JzjeDQAAQBAJ |url-status=live }}</ref>
	As a ], Ali was initially affiliated with ]'s ] (NOI) and advocated their ] ideology. He later disavowed the NOI, adhering initially to ] and later to ], and supporting ], like his former mentor ]. After retiring from boxing in 1981, Ali devoted his life to religious and charitable work. In 1984, Ali was diagnosed with ], which his doctors attributed to boxing-related brain injuries. As the condition worsened, Ali made limited public appearances and was cared for by his family until his death on June 3, 2016 in ].
			He grew up amid ]. His mother recalled one occasion when he was denied a drink of water at a store: "They wouldn't give him one ]. That really affected him."<ref name="HauserThomas">{{cite web |last1=Hauser |first1=Thomas |title=The Importance of Muhammad Ali |url=http://www.gilderlehrman.org/history-by-era/civil-rights-movement/essays/importance-muhammad-ali |website=Gilder Lehrman Institute |date=July 31, 2012 |access-date=June 5, 2016 |archive-date=June 8, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160608035157/http://www.gilderlehrman.org/history-by-era/civil-rights-movement/essays/importance-muhammad-ali |url-status=live }}</ref> He was also strongly affected by the 1955 murder of ], which led to young Clay and a friend taking out their frustration by vandalizing a local rail yard. He once told his daughter Hana, "Nothing would ever shake me up (more) than the story of Emmett Till."<ref>{{cite book |last1=Hampton |first1=Henry |author-link1=Henry Hampton |last2=Fayer |first2=Steve |last3=Flynn |first3=Sarah |date=1990 |title=Voices of Freedom: An Oral History of the Civil Rights Movement from the 1950s through the 1980s |page= |publisher=] |isbn=978-0-553-05734-8 |url-access=registration |url=https://archive.org/details/voicesoffreedom00henr_0/page/321}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author=Gorn, Elliott |date=1998 |title=Muhammad Ali: The People's Champ |pages=76–77 |publisher=University of Illinois Press |isbn=978-0-252-06721-1}}</ref>
	==Early life and amateur career==
	Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|k|æ|ʃ|ə|s}}) was born on January 17, 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky.<ref name="greatath"/> He had a sister and four brothers.<ref>{{cite news |title=Barber Can Relax Hair |url=http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=PI&s_site=philly&p_multi=PI&p_theme=realcities&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0EB32F2545452CEB&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM |work=Philadelphia Inquirer |date=October 15, 1997 |accessdate=September 4, 2009 }}</ref><ref name=Timesobit>{{cite news |title=Cassius Marcellus Clay Sr., Former Champion's Father, 77 |url=http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C0CEFDA1230F933A25751C0A966958260 |agency=Associated Press |work=The New York Times |date=February 10, 1990 |accessdate=September 4, 2009 }}</ref> He was named for his father, ], who himself was named in honor of the 19th-century ] politician and staunch ], ], also from the state of ]. Clay's father's paternal grandparents were John Clay and Sallie Anne Clay; Clay's sister Eva claimed that Sallie was a native of Madagascar.<ref>{{cite book|last=Egerton |first=John|authorlink=John Egerton (journalist)|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=O6YFLYjAgcQC&lpg=PA134&pg=PA134#v=onepage&q&f=false |title= Shades of Gray: Dispatches from the Modern South|publisher=] |date=September 1, 1991 |ISBN = 0807117056|page=134|accessdate=June 24, 2016}}</ref> He was a descendant of slaves of the ], and was predominantly of ] descent, with smaller amounts of ]<ref name="Great-grandfather emigrated from Ennis, County Clare, Ireland">{{cite web | url=http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-36452554 | title=Muhammad Ali: Boxer's ancestral Irish town pays tribute after death | publisher=BBC | date=June 4, 2016 | accessdate=June 4, 2016}}</ref> and ] heritage.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/boxing/1810535.stm |title=Ali has Irish ancestry |publisher=BBC News |date=February 9, 2002 |accessdate=August 5, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Rietwiesner|first=Williams Adams|title=Ancestry of Muhammad Ali|url=http://www.wargs.com/other/ali.html}}</ref> His father painted billboards and signs,<ref name="greatath">{{cite book| last = Johnson| first = Rafer| title = Great Athletes| url = https://books.google.com/books?id=TnIAPwAACAAJ| edition = revised| volume = 1| date = February 1, 2002| publisher = Salem Press| isbn = 978-1-58765-008-6| pages = 38–41 }}</ref> and his mother, ], was a domestic helper. Although Cassius Sr. was a Methodist, he allowed Odessa to bring up both Cassius Jr. and his younger brother ] (later renamed Rahman Ali) as Baptists.<ref name="Hauser 2004 p14">{{Harvnb|Hauser|2004|p=14}}</ref> Cassius Jr. attended ] in Louisville.<ref name="tfp" />
			==Amateur career==
	Clay grew up amid ]. His mother recalled one occasion where he was denied a drink of water at a store—"They wouldn't give him one because of his color. That really affected him."<ref name="HauserThomas"/> He was also affected by the 1955 murder of ], which led to young Clay and a friend taking out their frustration by vandalizing a local railyard.<ref>Hampton, Henry, Fayer, S. (1990). ''Voices of Freedom: An Oral History of the Civil Rights Movement from the 1950s through the 1980s'', p. 321. ]. ISBN 978-0-553-05734-8.</ref><ref>Gorn, Elliott (1998). ''Muhammad Ali: The People's Champ'', p. 76–77, University of Illinois Press. ISBN 978-0-252-06721-1.</ref>
			], January 1960]]
			] to win gold in the ].]]
			Clay was first directed toward boxing by Louisville police officer and boxing coach ],<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Boxing-Legend---Muhammad-Ali/938509 |title=Boxing Legend – Muhammad Ali |last=Kandel |first=Elmo |date=April 1, 2006 |work=Article Click |publisher=Elmo Kandel |access-date=March 9, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080611174640/http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Boxing-Legend---Muhammad-Ali/938509 |archive-date=June 11, 2008}}</ref> who encountered the 12-year-old fuming over a thief having taken his bicycle. He told the officer he was going to "whup" the thief. The officer told Clay he had better learn how to box first.<ref>{{cite web |access-date=May 20, 2008 |url=http://iml.jou.ufl.edu/projects/Spring05/Shaffer/clay.html |title=Muhammad Ali |website=]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080531151410/http://iml.jou.ufl.edu/projects/Spring05/Shaffer/clay.html|archive-date=May 31, 2008}}</ref> Initially, Clay did not take up Martin's offer, but after seeing amateur boxers on a local television boxing program called ''Tomorrow's Champions'', Clay was interested in the prospect of fighting.<ref>{{cite book |title=The Soul of a Butterfly: Reflections on Life's Journey |date=2013 |publisher=Simon and Schuster |page=18}}</ref> He then began to work with trainer Fred Stoner, whom he credits with giving him the "real training", eventually molding "my style, my stamina and my system". For the last four years of Clay's amateur career he was trained by boxing ] ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://ringtalk.com.lhost9.atlantic.net/index.php?action=fullnews&showcomments=1&id=1553 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150414160235/http://ringtalk.com.lhost9.atlantic.net/index.php?action=fullnews&showcomments=1&id=1553 |archive-date=April 14, 2015 |title='Godfather' Of Cutmen-Chuck Bodak Suffers Stroke |website=RingTalk |access-date=April 14, 2015 |date=September 2, 2007 |author=Fernandez, Pedro Fernandez}}</ref>
			Clay made his amateur boxing debut in 1954 against local amateur boxer Ronnie O'Keefe. He won by split decision.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Gray |first=Geoffey |url=https://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2016/06/how-muhammad-ali-became-a-boxer.html |title=How Muhammad Ali Became a Boxer – Daily Intelligencer |magazine=] |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=June 26, 2016 |archive-date=June 9, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160609200130/http://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2016/06/how-muhammad-ali-became-a-boxer.html |url-status=live }}</ref> He went on to win six Kentucky ] titles, two national Golden Gloves titles, an ] national title, and the ] gold medal in the ] in Rome.<ref name="Ward">{{cite magazine |url=http://www.americanheritage.com/articles/magazine/ah/2006/5/2006_5_48.shtml |first=Nathan |last=Ward |title=A Total Eclipse of the Sonny |magazine=] |date=October 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070111061103/http://www.americanheritage.com/articles/magazine/ah/2006/5/2006_5_48.shtml |archive-date=January 11, 2007}}</ref> Clay's amateur record was 100 wins with five losses. In his 1975 autobiography he recalled that shortly after his return from the Rome Olympics, he threw his gold medal into the ] after he and a friend were refused service at a "whites-only" restaurant and fought with a white gang. The story was later disputed, and several of his friends, including ] and photographer ], denied it. Brown told ''Sports Illustrated'' writer Mark Kram, "] sure bought into that one!" ]'s biography of Ali stated that Ali was refused service at the diner but that he lost his medal a year after he won it.<ref name="Hauser 2004">{{Harvnb|Hauser|2004}}</ref> Ali received a replacement medal at the ] during the ], where he lit the torch to start the Games.
	] (second from right)]]
			==Professional career==
	Clay was first directed toward boxing by Louisville police officer and boxing coach ],<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Boxing-Legend---Muhammad-Ali/938509 |title=Boxing Legend – Muhammad Ali |last=Kandel |first=Elmo |date=April 1, 2006 |work=Article Click |publisher=Elmo Kandel |accessdate=March 9, 2009 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080611174640/http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Boxing-Legend---Muhammad-Ali/938509 |archivedate=June 11, 2008 }}</ref> who encountered the 12-year-old fuming over a thief taking his bicycle. He told the officer he was going to "whup" the thief. The officer told him he had better learn how to box first.<ref>{{cite web|accessdate=May 20, 2008|url=http://iml.jou.ufl.edu/projects/Spring05/Shaffer/clay.html|title=Muhammad Ali|publisher=]}}</ref> Initially, Clay did not take up on Martin's offer, but after seeing amateur boxers on a local television boxing program called Tomorrow's Champions, Clay was interested in the prospects of fighting for fame, fortune, and glory.{{citation needed|date=June 2016}} For the last four years of Clay's amateur career he was trained by boxing ] ].<ref> {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150414160235/http://ringtalk.com.lhost9.atlantic.net/index.php?action=fullnews&showcomments=1&id=1553 |date=April 14, 2015 }} September 2, 2007 by Pedro Fernandez, ringtalk.com</ref>
			{{Main|Boxing career of Muhammad Ali}}
			===Early career===
	Clay made his amateur boxing debut in 1954 against local amateur boxer Ronnie O'Keefe. He won by split decision.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Gray |first=Geoffey |url=http://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2016/06/how-muhammad-ali-became-a-boxer.html |title=How Muhammad Ali Became a Boxer – Daily Intelligencer|journal=] |date=June 4, 2016| accessdate=June 26, 2016}}</ref> He went on to win six Kentucky ] titles, two national Golden Gloves titles, an ] national title, and the ] gold medal in the ] in Rome.<ref name="Ward">{{cite web |url=http://www.americanheritage.com/articles/magazine/ah/2006/5/2006_5_48.shtml |first=Nathan |last=Ward |title=A Total Eclipse of the Sonny |work=American Heritage |date=October 2006 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20070111061103/http://www.americanheritage.com/articles/magazine/ah/2006/5/2006_5_48.shtml |archivedate=January 11, 2007}}</ref> Clay's amateur record was 100 wins with five losses. Ali said in his 1975 autobiography that shortly after his return from the Rome Olympics, he threw his gold medal into the ] after he and a friend were refused service at a "whites-only" restaurant and fought with a white gang. The story was later disputed and several of Ali's friends, including ] and photographer ], denied it. Brown told ''Sports Illustrated'' writer Mark Kram, "] sure bought into that one!" ]'s biography of Ali stated that Ali was refused service at the diner but that he lost his medal a year after he won it.<ref name="Hauser 2004">{{Harvnb|Hauser|2004}}</ref> Ali received a replacement medal at a basketball intermission during the ], where he lit the torch to start the games.
			] fifth professional bout]]
			Clay made his professional debut on October 29, 1960, winning a six-round decision over ]. From then until the end of 1963, Clay amassed a record of 19–0 with 15 wins by knockout. He defeated boxers including Tony Esperti, ], Donnie Fleeman, Alonzo Johnson, George Logan, Willi Besmanoff, ], ], and ]. Clay also beat his former trainer and veteran boxer ] in a 1962 match.<ref>{{cite news |last=Calkins |first=Matt |url=http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/2014/nov/17/archie-moore-the52-boxing-heavyweight/ |title=Archie Moore was the KO king |work=] |date=November 17, 2014 |access-date=June 15, 2016 |archive-date=August 11, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160811005535/http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/2014/nov/17/archie-moore-the52-boxing-heavyweight/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |url={{GBurl|id=mgDK3q6GWI8C}} |title=Ali in Action: The Man, the Moves, the Mouth |first=Les |last=Krantz |year=2008 |publisher=Globe Pequot |access-date=June 15, 2016 |via=Google Books |isbn=978-1-59921-302-6}}</ref>
			These early fights were not without trials. Clay was knocked down by both ] and Cooper. In the Cooper fight, Clay was floored by a left ] at the end of round four and was saved by the bell, going on to win in the predicted fifth round due to Cooper's severely cut eye. The fight with Doug Jones on March 13, 1963, was Clay's toughest fight during this stretch. The number two and three heavyweight contenders respectively, Clay and Jones fought on Jones' home turf at New York's ]. Jones staggered Clay in the first round, and the unanimous decision for Clay was greeted by boos and a rain of debris thrown into the ring. Watching on closed-circuit TV, heavyweight champ ] quipped that if he fought Clay he (Liston) might get locked up for murder. The fight was later named "Fight of the Year" by ''The Ring'' magazine.<ref>{{cite news |last=Velin |first=Bob |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2016/06/04/muhammad-ali-fight-by-fight-career/85341622/ |title=Fight by fight: Muhammad Ali's legendary career |work=] |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=June 15, 2016 |archive-date=June 15, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160615060046/http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2016/06/04/muhammad-ali-fight-by-fight-career/85341622/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
	==Professional boxing==
			In each of these fights, Clay vocally belittled his opponents and vaunted his abilities. He called Jones "an ugly little man" and Cooper a "bum". He said he was embarrassed to get in the ring with Alex Miteff and claimed that Madison Square Garden was "too small for me".<ref name=Mee>Bob Mee, ''Ali and Liston: The Boy Who Would Be King and the Ugly Bear'', 2011.</ref> Ali's ] was inspired by ] ]'s, after he saw George's talking ability attract huge crowds to events.<ref name="SI">{{cite magazine |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1114630/index.htm |title=King Strut |first=John |last=Capouya |magazine=] |access-date=March 14, 2017 |date=December 12, 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110603232105/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1114630/index.htm |archive-date=June 3, 2011}}</ref> In a 1969 interview he stated that he met with George in Las Vegas in 1961, that George told him that talking a big game would earn paying fans who either wanted to see him win or wanted to see him lose, thus Clay transformed himself into a self-described "big-mouth and a bragger".<ref name=georgali>{{cite news |url=http://www.cbssports.com/general/news/how-muhammad-alis-fascination-with-pro-wrestling-fueled-his-career-inspired-mma/ |title=How Muhammad Ali's fascination with pro wrestling fueled his career, inspired MMA |first=Denny |last=Burkholder |work=CBS Sports |date=June 6, 2016 |access-date=October 2, 2016 |archive-date=August 7, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220807202007/https://www.cbssports.com/general/news/how-muhammad-alis-fascination-with-pro-wrestling-fueled-his-career-inspired-mma/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
	===Early career===
	]
	Clay made his professional debut on October 29, 1960, winning a six-round decision over ]. From then until the end of 1963, Clay amassed a record of 19–0 with 15 wins by knockout. He defeated boxers including Tony Esperti, ], Donnie Fleeman, Alonzo Johnson, George Logan, Willi Besmanoff, Lamar Clark, ] and ]. Clay also beat his former trainer and veteran boxer ] in a 1962 match.<ref>{{cite news|last=Calkins|first=Matt|url=http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/2014/nov/17/archie-moore-the52-boxing-heavyweight/|title=Archie Moore was the KO king|work=]|date=November 17, 2014|accessdate=June 15, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=mgDK3q6GWI8C|title=Ali in Action: The Man, the Moves, the Mouth|first=Les|last=Krantz|date=January 1, 2008|publisher=Globe Pequot|accessdate=June 15, 2016|via=Google Books}}</ref>
			In 1960, Clay left Moore's camp, partially due to Clay's refusal to do chores such as washing dishes and sweeping. To replace Moore, Clay hired ] to be his trainer. Clay had met Dundee in February 1957 during Clay's amateur career.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/7470417/muhammad-ali-was-continues-greatest |work=ESPN |title=Dundee: Ali was, still is 'The Greatest' |date=January 17, 2012 |access-date=January 17, 2012 |first1=Carlos |last1=Irusta |archive-date=January 19, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120119214342/http://espn.go.com/boxing/story/_/id/7470417/muhammad-ali-was-continues-greatest |url-status=live }}</ref> Around this time, Clay sought longtime idol ] to be his manager, but was rebuffed.<ref>{{cite book |last=Haygood |first=Wil |author-link=Wil Haygood |title=Sweet Thunder: The Life and Times of Sugar Ray Robinson |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Q_nfLUMzlM0C&pg=PA378 |page=378 |publisher=] |year=2011 |access-date=June 24, 2016 |isbn=978-1-56976-864-8 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031223022/https://books.google.com/books?id=Q_nfLUMzlM0C&pg=PA378#v=onepage&q&f=false |url-status=live }}</ref>
	These early fights were not without trials. Clay was knocked down both by ] and Cooper. In the Cooper fight, Clay was floored by a left ] at the end of round four and was saved by the bell. The fight with Doug Jones on March 13, 1963, was Clay's toughest fight during this stretch. The number-two and -three heavyweight contenders respectively, Clay and Jones fought on Jones' home turf at New York's ]. Jones staggered Clay in the first round, and the unanimous decision for Clay was greeted by boos and a rain of debris thrown into the ring (watching on closed-circuit TV, heavyweight champ Sonny Liston quipped that if he fought Clay he might get locked up for murder). The fight was later named "Fight of the Year" by ''The Ring'' magazine.<ref>{{cite news|last=Velin|first=Bob|url=http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2016/06/04/muhammad-ali-fight-by-fight-career/85341622/|title=Fight by fight: Muhammad Ali's legendary career|work=]|date=June 4, 2016|accessdate=June 15, 2016}}</ref>
			===World heavyweight champion===
	In each of these fights, Clay vocally belittled his opponents and vaunted his abilities. He called Jones "an ugly little man" and Cooper a "bum". He was embarrassed to get in the ring with Alex Miteff. Madison Square Garden was "too small for me".<ref name=Mee>Bob Mee, ''Ali and Liston: The Boy Who Would Be King and the Ugly Bear'', 2011.</ref> Clay's behavior provoked the ire of many boxing fans.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3622439/Boxing-great-Muhammad-Ali-hospital-respiratory-issue.html|title=Boxing legend Muhammad Ali, 74, hospitalized with respiratory issue – but spokesman says he's 'in fair condition'|date=June 2, 2016|accessdate=June 3, 2016|work=Daily Mail}}</ref> His provocative and outlandish behavior in the ring was inspired by ] ].<ref name="SI">{{cite journal|url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1114630/index.htm |title=King Strut |first=John |last=Capouya |work=] |accessdate=August 30, 2016 |date=December 12, 2005 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110603232105/sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1114630/index.htm |archivedate=June 3, 2011 }}</ref> Ali stated in a 1969 interview with the Associated Press' Hubert Mizel that he met with Gorgeous George in Las Vegas in 1961 and that the wrestler inspired him to use wrestling jargon when he did interviews.<ref name=georgali>{{cite news|url=http://www.cbssports.com/general/news/how-muhammad-alis-fascination-with-pro-wrestling-fueled-his-career-inspired-mma/|title=How Muhammad Ali's fascination with pro wrestling fueled his career, inspired MMA|first=Denny|last=Burkholder|publisher=CBS Sports|date=June 6, 2016|accessdate=October 2, 2016}}</ref>
			====Fights against Liston====
			{{Main|Muhammad Ali vs. Sonny Liston}}
			By late 1963, Clay had become the top contender for Sonny Liston's title. The fight was set for February 25, 1964, in ]. Liston was an intimidating personality, a dominating fighter with a criminal past and ties to the mob. Based on Clay's uninspired performance against Jones and Cooper in his previous two fights, and Liston's destruction of former heavyweight champion ] in two first-round knockouts, Clay was an 8:1 underdog.<ref name="Liston">{{cite news |first=Robert |last=Lipsyte |title=Clay Wins Title in Seventh-Round Upset As Liston Is Halted by Shoulder Injury |url=https://www.nytimes.com/books/98/10/25/specials/ali-upset.html |work=The New York Times |date=February 26, 1964 |access-date=December 27, 2008 |archive-date=April 10, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090410085134/http://www.nytimes.com/books/98/10/25/specials/ali-upset.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Despite this, Clay taunted Liston during the pre-fight buildup, dubbing him "the big ugly bear", claiming "Liston even smells like a bear" and "I'm gonna give him to the local zoo after I whup him."<ref>{{cite book|last=Remnick|first=David|title=King of the World: Muhammad Ali and the Rise of an American Hero|date=2014|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vkvoAgAAQBAJ&dq=%22Liston+even+smells+like+a+bear%22&pg=PA147|page=147|isbn=9780804173629|publisher=Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group|access-date=April 23, 2024|archive-date=December 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231215224259/https://books.google.com/books?id=vkvoAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA147&dq=%22Liston+even+smells+like+a+bear%22|url-status=live}}</ref> Clay turned the pre-fight weigh-in into a circus, shouting at Liston that "someone is going to die at ringside tonight." Clay's pulse rate was measured at 120, more than double his normal 54.<ref name="Liston" /> Many of those in attendance thought Clay's behavior stemmed from fear, and some commentators wondered if he would show up for the bout.
			The outcome of the fight was a major upset. At the opening bell, Liston rushed at Clay, seemingly angry and looking for a quick knockout. However, Clay's superior speed and mobility enabled him to elude Liston, making the champion miss and look awkward. At the end of the first round, Clay opened up his attack and hit Liston repeatedly with jabs. Liston fought better in round two, but at the beginning of the third round Clay hit Liston with a combination that buckled his knees and opened a cut under his left eye. This was the first time Liston had ever been cut. At the end of round four, Clay was returning to his corner when he began experiencing blinding pain in his eyes and asked his trainer, ], to cut off his gloves. Dundee refused. It has been speculated that the problem was due to ointment used to seal Liston's cuts, perhaps deliberately applied by his corner to his gloves.<ref name="Liston" /> Though unconfirmed, boxing historian ] said that two of Liston's opponents also complained about their eyes "burning".<ref>{{cite book |last=Sugar |first=Bert Randolph |title=Bert Sugar on Boxing: The Best of the Sport's Most Notable Writer |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=R8hivgAACAAJ |year=2003 |publisher=Globe Pequot |isbn=978-1-59228-048-3 |page=196 |access-date=November 3, 2023 |archive-date=November 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231103145011/https://books.google.com/books?id=R8hivgAACAAJ |url-status=live }}</ref>
	After Clay left Moore's camp in 1960, partially due to Clay's refusing to do chores such as dish-washing and sweeping, he hired ], whom he had met in February 1957 during Ali's amateur career,<ref>{{cite news| url=http://espn.go.com/boxing/story/_/id/7470417/muhammad-ali-was-continues-greatest | publisher=ESPN | title=Dundee: Ali was, still is 'The Greatest' | date=January 17, 2012 | accessdate=January 17, 2012 | first1=Carlos | last1=Irusta}}</ref> to be his trainer. Around this time, Clay sought longtime idol ] to be his manager, but was rebuffed.<ref>{{cite book |last=Haygood |first=Wil |authorlink=Wil Haygood |title=Sweet Thunder: The Life and Times of Sugar Ray Robinson |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Q_nfLUMzlM0C&pg=PA378&hl=en |page=378 |publisher=] |date=April 1, 2011 |accessdate=June 24, 2016}}</ref>
			Despite Liston's attempts to knock out a blinded Clay, Clay was able to survive the fifth round until sweat and tears rinsed the irritation from his eyes. In the sixth, Clay dominated, hitting Liston repeatedly. Liston did not answer the bell for the seventh round, and Clay was declared the winner by ]. Liston stated that the reason he quit was an injured shoulder. Following the win, a triumphant Clay rushed to the edge of the ring and, pointing to the ringside press, shouted: "Eat your words!" He added, "I am the greatest! I shook up the world. I'm the prettiest thing that ever lived."<ref>McLeod, Kembrew, ''Pranksters: Making Mischief in the Modern World'', pp. 223–224.</ref>
	===Heavyweight champion===
	{{further information|Muhammad Ali vs. Sonny Liston}}
			At ringside post fight, Clay appeared unconvinced that the fight was stopped due to a Liston shoulder injury, saying that the only injury Liston had was "an open eye, a big cut eye!" When told by Joe Louis that the injury was a "left arm thrown out of its socket," Clay quipped, "Yeah, swinging at nothing, who wouldn't?"<ref>{{cite AV media |title= Cassius Clay versus Sonny Liston |url= https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4IKMX-5JLk |date=February 25, 1964 |access-date=November 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181203100534/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4IKMX-5JLk |archive-date=December 3, 2018 |work=Theatre Network Television |publisher=] |via=kumite27 (YouTube) |url-status=live}}</ref>
	By late 1963, Clay had become the top contender for Sonny Liston's title. The fight was set for February 25, 1964, in ]. Liston was an intimidating personality, a dominating fighter with a criminal past and ties to the mob. Based on Clay's uninspired performance against Jones and Cooper in his previous two fights, and Liston's destruction of former heavyweight champion ] in two first-round knock outs, Clay was a 7–1 underdog. Despite this, Clay taunted Liston during the pre-fight buildup, dubbing him "the big ugly bear". "Liston even smells like a bear", Clay said. "After I beat him I'm going to donate him to the zoo."<ref></ref> Clay turned the pre-fight weigh-in into a circus, shouting at Liston that "someone is going to die at ringside tonight". Clay's pulse rate was measured at 120, more than double his normal 54.<ref name="Liston">{{cite news |first=Robert |last=Lipsyte |title=Clay Wins Title in Seventh-Round Upset As Liston Is Halted by Shoulder Injury |url=http://www.nytimes.com/books/98/10/25/specials/ali-upset.html |work=The New York Times |date=February 26, 1964 |accessdate=December 27, 2008}}</ref> Many of those in attendance thought Clay's behavior stemmed from fear, and some commentators wondered if he would show up for the bout.
			In winning this fight at the age of 22, Clay became the youngest boxer to take the title from a reigning heavyweight champion. However, ] remained the youngest to win the heavyweight championship, doing so at the age 21 during an elimination bout following ]'s retirement. ] broke both records in 1986 when he defeated ] to win the heavyweight title at age 20. The feat also made Clay the fastest boxer to win the championship (non-vacant) in the modern era, doing so in 20 bouts.
	The outcome of the fight was a major upset. At the opening bell, Liston rushed at Clay, seemingly angry and looking for a quick knockout, but Clay's superior speed and mobility enabled him to elude Liston, making the champion miss and look awkward. At the end of the first round Clay opened up his attack and hit Liston repeatedly with jabs. Liston fought better in round two, but at the beginning of the third round Clay hit Liston with a combination that buckled his knees and opened a cut under his left eye. This was the first time Liston had ever been cut. At the end of round four, as Clay returned to his corner, he began experiencing blinding pain in his eyes and asked his trainer ] to cut off his gloves. Dundee refused. It has been speculated that the problem was due to ointment used to seal Liston's cuts, perhaps deliberately applied by his corner to his gloves.<ref name="Liston" /> Though unconfirmed, ] claimed that two of Liston's opponents also complained about their eyes "burning".<ref>{{cite book| last=Sugar |first=Bert Randolph |title=Bert Sugar on Boxing: The Best of the Sport's Most Notable Writer |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=tJ2uBBsN0E0C |date=November 1, 2003 |publisher=Globe Pequot |isbn=978-1-59228-048-3 |page=196 }}</ref><ref>In an interview in 1974, Ali said that, prior to his later fight with Foreman, a one-time member of Liston's entourage offered him a linament that could be applied to boxing gloves and that would cause a blinding, temporary stinging of the eyes. {{YouTube|nKGdopYDIWU}}</ref>
			Soon after the Liston fight, Clay changed his name to Cassius X, and then later to Muhammad Ali upon converting to the ]. Ali then faced a rematch with Liston scheduled for May 1965 in ]. It had been scheduled for Boston the previous November, but was postponed for six months due to Ali's emergency surgery for a hernia three days before.<ref>{{cite news |last=Cuddy |first=Jack |title=Clay Undergoes Surgery; Fight Is Off Indefinitely |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/9544811/the_bridgeport_telegram/ |newspaper=] |date=November 14, 1964 |page=1 |via=] |access-date=March 14, 2017 |archive-date=March 15, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170315174456/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/9544811/the_bridgeport_telegram/ |url-status=live }} {{free access}}</ref> The fight was controversial. Midway through the first round, Liston was knocked down by a difficult-to-see blow the press dubbed a "phantom punch". Referee ] did not begin the count immediately after the knockdown, as Ali refused to retreat to a neutral corner. Liston rose after he had been down for about 20 seconds, and the fight momentarily continued. However a few seconds later Walcott, having been informed by the timekeepers that Liston had been down for a count of 10, stopped the match and declared Ali the winner by knockout.<ref>Archived at {{cbignore}} and the {{cbignore}}: {{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXYwb2C6Hec |title=Muhammad Ali vs Sonny Liston I & II – Highlights (Ali Becomes World Champion & Phantom Punch Fight!) |publisher=YouTube |access-date=June 20, 2018}}{{cbignore}}</ref> The entire fight lasted less than two minutes.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1992/01/16/sports/sports-of-the-times-on-his-50th-ali-is-still-the-greatest.html |work=The New York Times |title=Sports of The Times; On His 50th, Ali Is Still 'The Greatest' |date=January 16, 1992 |access-date=January 25, 2012 |first1=Dave |last1=Anderson |archive-date=December 21, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131221075405/http://www.nytimes.com/1992/01/16/sports/sports-of-the-times-on-his-50th-ali-is-still-the-greatest.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
	Despite Liston's attempts to knock out a blinded Clay, Clay was able to survive the fifth round until sweat and tears rinsed the irritation from his eyes. In the sixth, Clay dominated, hitting Liston repeatedly. Liston did not answer the bell for the seventh round, and Clay was declared the winner by ]. Liston stated that the reason he quit was an injured shoulder. Following the win, a triumphant Clay rushed to the edge of the ring and, pointing to the ringside press, shouted: "Eat your words!" He added, "I am the greatest! I shook up the world. I'm the prettiest thing that ever lived."<ref>''Pranksters: Making Mischief in the Modern World'' by Kembrew McLeod, pp. 223–4</ref>
			It has since been speculated that Liston purposely dropped to the ground. Proposed motivations include threats on his life from the Nation of Islam, that he had bet against himself and that he "took a dive" to pay off debts. Slow-motion replays show that Liston was jarred by a chopping right from Ali, although it is unclear whether the blow was a genuine knockout punch.<ref>{{cite book |last=Vachss |first=Andrew |author-link=Andrew Vachss |url=http://www.vachss.com/only_child/index.html |title=Only Child |page=89 |publisher=Vintage |year=2003 |access-date=June 6, 2016 |archive-date=May 27, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160527140026/http://www.vachss.com/only_child/index.html |url-status=live }} Vachss further explains the way such a fix would have been engineered in {{cite book |url=http://twotrainsrunning.com/ |title=Two Trains Running |pages=160–165, 233 |publisher=Pantheon |year=2005 |access-date=June 4, 2016 |archive-date=July 16, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160716221347/http://www.twotrainsrunning.com/ }}</ref>
	In winning this fight, Clay became at age 22 the youngest boxer to take the title from a reigning heavyweight champion, though ] was the youngest to win the heavyweight championship at 21, during an elimination bout following ]'s retirement. ] broke both records in 1986 when he defeated ] to win the heavyweight title at age 20.
			====Fight against Patterson====
	Soon after the Liston fight, Clay changed his name to Cassius X, and then later to Muhammad Ali upon converting to Islam and affiliating with the ]. Ali then faced a rematch with Liston scheduled for May 1965 in ]. It had been scheduled for Boston the previous November, but was postponed for six months due to Ali's emergency surgery for a hernia three days before.<ref name=cvohbo>{{cite news|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=_H9QAAAAIBAJ&sjid=ZBEEAAAAIBAJ&pg=7366%2C3403466|newspaper=Milwaukee Sentinel |last=Grody|first=Ray |title=Clay victim of hernia, bout off |date=November 14, 1964|page=2-part 2 }}</ref> The fight was controversial. Midway through the first round, Liston was knocked down by a difficult-to-see blow the press dubbed a "phantom punch". Ali refused to retreat to a neutral corner, and referee ] did not begin the count. Liston rose after he had been down about 20 seconds, and the fight momentarily continued. But a few seconds later Walcott stopped the match, declaring Ali the winner by knockout. The entire fight lasted less than two minutes.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.nytimes.com/1992/01/16/sports/sports-of-the-times-on-his-50th-ali-is-still-the-greatest.html | work=The New York Times | title=Sports of The Times; On His 50th, Ali Is Still 'The Greatest' | date=January 16, 1992 | accessdate=January 25, 2012 | first1=Dave | last1=Anderson}}</ref>
			{{Main|Muhammad Ali vs. Floyd Patterson}}
			Ali defended his title against former heavyweight champion ] on November 22, 1965. Before the match, Ali mocked Patterson, who was widely known to call him by his former name Cassius Clay, as an "]", calling him "The Rabbit". Although Ali had the better of Patterson, who appeared injured during the fight, the match lasted 12 rounds before being called on a technical knockout. Patterson later said he had strained his ]. Ali was criticized in the sports media for appearing to have toyed with Patterson during the fight.<ref name=Belth>{{Cite web |url=http://www.sportsonearth.com/article/37158310/ |title=Ali–Patterson: The Real Story |website=Sports on Earth |date=August 27, 2012 |access-date=June 3, 2016 |first=Alex |last=Belth |archive-date=November 8, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171108100358/http://www.sportsonearth.com/article/37158310/ }}</ref> Patterson biographer W. K. Stratton claims that the conflict between Ali and Patterson was not genuine but was staged to increase ticket sales and the closed-circuit viewing audience, with both men complicit in the theatrics. Stratton also cites an interview by ] in which Ali explained that rather than toying with Patterson, he refrained from knocking him out after it became apparent Patterson was injured. Patterson later said that he had never been hit by punches as soft as Ali's. Stratton states that Ali arranged the second fight, in 1972, with the financially struggling Patterson to help the former champion earn enough money to pay a debt to the ].<ref name=Belth/>
	It has since been speculated that Liston dropped to the ground purposely. Proposed motivations include threats on his life from the Nation of Islam, that he had bet against himself and that he "took a dive" to pay off debts. Slow-motion replays show that Liston was jarred by a chopping right from Ali, although it is unclear whether the blow was a genuine knockout punch.<ref>{{cite book |last=Vachss |first=Andrew |authorlink=Andrew Vachss |url=http://www.vachss.com/only_child/index.html |title=Only Child |page=89 |publisher=Vintage |year=2003}} Vachss further explains the way such a fix would have been engineered in {{cite book |url=http://twotrainsrunning.com/ |title=Two Trains Running |pages=160–165, 233 |publisher=Pantheon |year=2005}}</ref>
			====Main Bout====
	Ali defended his title against former heavyweight champion ] on November 22, 1965. Before the match, Ali mocked Patterson, who was widely known to call him by his former name Cassius Clay, as an "]", calling him "The Rabbit". Although Ali clearly had the better of Patterson, who appeared injured during the fight, the match lasted 12 rounds before being called on a technical knockout. Patterson later said he had strained his ]. Ali was criticized in the sports media for appearing to have toyed with Patterson during the fight.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.sportsonearth.com/article/37158310/|agency=Sports on Earth|title=ALI-PATTERSON: THE REAL STORY|date=August 27, 2012|accessdate=June 3, 2016|first=Alex|last=Belth}}</ref>
			].<ref>{{cite web |title=Boxing – Muhammad Ali – Rank Cinema, Wardour Street, London |date=August 16, 2017 |url=https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/muhammad-ali-points-to-the-cut-eye-sequence-when-he-again-news-photo/833299780 |publisher=GettyImages |access-date=December 11, 2020 |archive-date=August 26, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220826144858/https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/muhammad-ali-points-to-the-cut-eye-sequence-when-he-again-news-photo/833299780 |url-status=live }}</ref>]]
			After the Patterson fight, Ali founded his own promotion company, Main Bout. The company mainly handled Ali's boxing promotions and ] ] broadcasts. The company's stockholders were mainly fellow Nation of Islam members, along with several others, including ].<ref name="Ezra105">{{cite book |last=Ezra |first=Michael |title=The Economic Civil Rights Movement: African Americans and the Struggle for Economic Power |date=2013 |publisher=] |isbn=978-1-136-27475-6 |page=105 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=DL41bsCigZcC&pg=PA105 |access-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031223028/https://books.google.com/books?id=DL41bsCigZcC&pg=PA105#v=onepage&q&f=false |url-status=live }}</ref>
			Ali and then-] heavyweight champion boxer ] had agreed to meet for a bout in Chicago on March 29, 1966 (the WBA, one of two boxing associations, had stripped Ali of his title following his joining the Nation of Islam). But in February Ali was reclassified by the Louisville draft board as 1-A from 1-Y, and he indicated that he would refuse to serve, commenting to the press, "I ain't got nothing against no ]; no Viet Cong never called me ].",<ref>{{cite news |last=Shalit |first=Nevin I. |title=Muhammad Ali: Losing the Real Title |url=https://www.thecrimson.com/article/1980/7/15/muhammad-ali-losing-the-real-title/ |newspaper=The Harvard Crimson |date=July 15, 1980 |access-date=August 19, 2015 |archive-date=September 4, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150904070931/http://www.thecrimson.com/article/1980/7/15/muhammad-ali-losing-the-real-title/ |url-status=live }}</ref> although the second part is probably apocryphal.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Fatsis |first=Stefan |date=June 8, 2016 |title="No Viet Cong Ever Called Me Nigger" |language=en-US |work=Slate |url=https://slate.com/culture/2016/06/did-muhammad-ali-ever-say-no-viet-cong-ever-called-me-nigger.html |access-date=March 24, 2023 |issn=1091-2339 |archive-date=March 22, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322215644/https://slate.com/culture/2016/06/did-muhammad-ali-ever-say-no-viet-cong-ever-called-me-nigger.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Amidst the media and public outcry over Ali's stance, the Illinois Athletic Commission refused to sanction the fight, citing technicalities.<ref>{{cite magazine |magazine=] |title=He Could Go To Jail And Still Be Champ |date=August 28, 1967 |first1=Angelo |last1=Dundee |first2=Tex |last2=Maule}}</ref>
	]
	Ali and then-] heavyweight champion boxer ] had agreed to meet for a bout in Chicago on March 29, 1966 (the WBA, one of two boxing associations, had stripped Ali of his title following his joining the Nation of Islam). But in February Ali was reclassified by the Louisville draft board as 1-A from 1-Y, and he indicated that he would refuse to serve, commenting to the press, "I ain't got nothing against no ]; no Viet Cong never called me nigger."<ref>{{cite news |last=Shalit |first=Nevin I. |title=Muhammad Ali: Losing the Real Title |url=http://www.thecrimson.com/article/1980/7/15/muhammad-ali-losing-the-real-title/ |newspaper=The Harvard Crimson |date=July 15, 1980 |accessdate=August 19, 2015}}</ref> Amidst the media and public outcry over Ali's stance, the Illinois Athletic Commission refused to sanction the fight, citing technicalities.<ref>{{cite journal |work=] |title=He Could Go To Jail And Still Be Champ |date=August 28, 1967 |first1=Angelo |last1=Dundee |first2=Tex |last2=Maule}}</ref>
	Instead, Ali traveled to Canada and Europe and won championship bouts against ], ], ] and ].		Instead, Ali traveled to Canada and Europe and won championship bouts against ], ], ], and ].
	Ali returned to the United States to fight ] in the Houston Astrodome on November 14, 1966. The bout drew a record-breaking indoor crowd of 35,460 people. Williams had once been considered among the hardest punchers in the heavyweight division, but in 1964 he had been shot at point-blank range by a Texas policeman, resulting in the loss of one kidney and {{convert|10|ft|m}} of his small intestine. Ali dominated Williams, winning a third-round technical knockout in what some consider the finest performance of his career.		Ali returned to the United States to fight ] at the ] in ] on November 14, 1966. The bout drew a record-breaking indoor crowd of 35,460 people. Williams had once been considered among the hardest punchers in the heavyweight division, but in 1964 he had been shot at point-blank range by a Texas policeman, resulting in the loss of one kidney and {{convert|10|ft|m|disp=flip}} of his small intestine. Ali dominated Williams, winning a third-round technical knockout in what some consider the finest performance of his career.
	Ali fought Terrell in Houston on February 6, 1967. Terrell was billed as Ali's toughest opponent since Liston—unbeaten in five years and having defeated many of the boxers Ali had faced. Terrell was big, strong and had a three-inch reach advantage over Ali. During the lead up to the bout, Terrell repeatedly called Ali "Clay", much to Ali's annoyance (Ali called Cassius Clay his "slave name"). The two almost came to blows over the name issue in a pre-fight interview with ]. Ali seemed intent on humiliating Terrell. "I want to torture him", he said. "A clean knockout is too good for him."<ref>{{cite news|first=Tex |last=Maule |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1079523/1/index.htm |title=Cruel Ali With All The Skills |date=February 13, 1967 |work=Sports Illustrated |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130309201457/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1079523/1/index.htm |archivedate=March 9, 2013}}</ref> The fight was close until the seventh round when Ali bloodied Terrell and almost knocked him out. In the eighth round, Ali taunted Terrell, hitting him with jabs and shouting between punches, "What's my name, Uncle Tom... what's my name?" Ali won a unanimous 15-round decision. Terrell claimed that early in the fight Ali deliberately thumbed him in the eye—forcing Terrell to fight half-blind—and then, in a clinch, rubbed the wounded eye against the ropes. Because of Ali's apparent intent to prolong the fight to inflict maximum punishment, critics described the bout as "one of the ugliest boxing fights". ] later wrote: "It was a wonderful demonstration of boxing skill and a barbarous display of cruelty." Ali denied the accusations of cruelty but, for Ali's critics, the fight provided more evidence of his arrogance.		Ali fought Terrell in Houston on February 6, 1967. Terrell, who was unbeaten in five years and had defeated many of the boxers Ali had faced, was billed as Ali's toughest opponent since Liston; he was big, strong and had a three-inch reach advantage over Ali. During the lead up to the bout, Terrell repeatedly called Ali "Clay", much to Ali's annoyance. The two almost came to blows over the name issue in a pre-fight interview with Howard Cosell. Ali seemed intent on humiliating Terrell. "I want to torture him", he said. "A clean knockout is too good for him."<ref>{{cite magazine |first=Tex |last=Maule |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1079523/1/index.htm |title=Cruel Ali With All The Skills |date=February 13, 1967 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130309201457/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1079523/1/index.htm |archive-date=March 9, 2013}}</ref> The fight was close until the seventh round, when Ali bloodied Terrell and almost knocked him out. In the eighth round, Ali taunted Terrell, hitting him with jabs and shouting between punches, "What's my name, Uncle Tom ... what's my name?" Ali won a unanimous 15-round decision. Terrell claimed that early in the fight Ali deliberately thumbed him in the eye, forcing him to fight half-blind, and then, in a clinch, rubbed the wounded eye against the ropes. Because of Ali's apparent intent to prolong the fight to inflict maximum punishment, critics described the bout as "one of the ugliest boxing fights". ] later wrote: "It was a wonderful demonstration of boxing skill and a barbarous display of cruelty." Ali denied the accusations of cruelty but, for Ali's critics, the fight provided more evidence of his arrogance.
	After Ali's title defense against ] on March 22, he was stripped of his title due to his refusal to be drafted to army service.<ref name="greatath"/> His boxing license was also suspended by the state of New York. He was convicted of draft evasion on June 20 and sentenced to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. He paid a bond and remained free while the verdict was being appealed.		After Ali's title defense against ] on March 22, he was stripped of his title due to his refusal to be drafted to army service.<ref name="greatath" /> His boxing license was also suspended by the state of New York. He was convicted of draft evasion on June 20 and sentenced to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. He paid a bond and remained free while the verdict was being appealed.
	===Exile and comeback===		==Draft resistance==
			{{See also|Clay v. United States}}
	In March 1966, Ali ]. He was systematically denied a boxing license in every state and stripped of his passport. As a result, he did not fight from March 1967 to October 1970—from ages 25 to almost 29—as his case worked its way through the appeals process before his conviction was overturned in 1971. During this time of inactivity, as ] began to grow and Ali's stance gained sympathy, he spoke at colleges across the nation, criticizing the Vietnam War and advocating African American pride and racial justice.
			{{Quote box
			| quote = My enemy is the white people, not Viet Cong or Chinese or Japanese. {{em|You}} my opposer when I want freedom. {{em|You}} my opposer when I want justice. {{em|You}} my opposer when I want equality. You won't even stand up for me in America for my religious beliefs—and you want me to go somewhere and fight, but you won't even stand up for me here at home?
			| source = —Muhammad Ali to a crowd of college students during his exile from boxing<ref name="tribune" />
			| align = right
			| width = 35em
			}}
			Ali registered for ] military on his 18th birthday and was listed as ] in 1962.<ref name=foley>{{citation |last=Foley |first=Michael |year=2003 |title=Confronting the War Machine: Draft Resistance during the Vietnam War |publisher=University of North Carolina Press |url=http://uncpress.unc.edu/browse/page/337 |isbn=978-0-8078-5436-5 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016105806/http://uncpress.unc.edu/browse/page/337 |archive-date=October 16, 2015}}</ref> In 1964, he was reclassified as Class 1-Y (fit for service only in times of national emergency) after he failed the ] qualifying test because his writing and spelling skills were sub-standard,<ref name=cmbpi>{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=K7gzAAAAIBAJ&pg=6900,3388922 |newspaper=Lodi News-Sentinel |agency=United Press International |title=Clay may be put into 1-A class today |date=February 10, 1967 |page=13 |access-date=September 7, 2020 |archive-date=August 7, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220807202002/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=K7gzAAAAIBAJ&pg=6900,3388922 |url-status=live }}</ref> due to his ].<ref name="Eig" /> (He was quoted as saying, "I said I was the greatest, not the smartest!"<ref name=foley /><ref name=neel />) By early 1966, the army lowered its standards to permit soldiers above the 15th percentile and Ali was again classified as 1-A.<ref name="greatath" /><ref name=foley /><ref name=neel>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/page2/s/neel/011221.html |first=Eric |last=Neel |title=Page2 – Muhammad Ali from A to Z |work=ESPN |access-date=November 5, 2013 |archive-date=November 2, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141102230834/http://espn.go.com/page2/s/neel/011221.html |url-status=live }}</ref> This classification meant he was now eligible for the draft and induction into the U.S. Army at a time when the U.S. was involved in the Vietnam War, a war which put him further at odds with the white establishment.<ref name="Roberts">{{cite book |last1=Roberts |first1=Randy |title=Winning is the Only Thing: Sports in America Since 1945 |date=1991 |publisher=Johns Hopkins University Press |pages=171–172}}</ref>
			When notified of this status, Ali declared that he would refuse to serve in the army and publicly considered himself a ].<ref name="greatath" /> Ali stated: "War is against the teachings of the ]. I'm not trying to dodge the draft. We are not supposed to take part in no wars unless declared by ] or The Messenger. We don't take part in Christian wars or wars of any unbelievers".<ref>{{cite web |last1=Network |first1=Warfare History |title=Vietnam War: Muhammad Ali's Draft Controversy |url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/reboot/vietnam-war-muhammad-alis-draft-controversy-176177 |website=The National Interest |access-date=February 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210117132706/https://nationalinterest.org/blog/reboot/vietnam-war-muhammad-alis-draft-controversy-176177 |archive-date=January 17, 2021}}</ref> He also said, "We are not to be the aggressor but we will defend ourselves if attacked." He stated: "Man, I ain't got no quarrel with them Vietcong."<ref>{{cite book|last=Remnick|first=David|title=King of the World: Muhammad Ali and the Rise of an American Hero|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vkvoAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA287|date=2014|publisher=Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group|page=287|isbn=9780804173629|access-date=April 23, 2024|archive-date=August 13, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240813181704/https://books.google.com/books?id=vkvoAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA287#v=onepage&q&f=false|url-status=live}}</ref> Ali elaborated: "Why should they ask me to put on a uniform and go ten thousand miles from home and drop bombs and bullets on brown people in Vietnam while so-called Negro people in Louisville are treated like dogs and denied simple human rights?"<ref>{{cite book |last=Haas |first=Jeffrey |title=The Assassination of Fred Hampton: How the FBI and the Chicago Police Murdered a Black Panther |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ignjecF9pX4C |year=2009 |publisher=Lawrence Hill Books |isbn=978-1-55652-765-4 |page=27 |access-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031223025/https://books.google.com/books?id=ignjecF9pX4C |url-status=live }}</ref> Ali antagonized the white establishment in 1966 by refusing to be drafted into the U.S. military, citing his religious beliefs and opposition to American involvement in the ].<ref name="HauserThomas" /><ref name="Roberts" /><ref>{{cite news |last=Hallett |first=Alison |title=Not So Fast |newspaper=Portland Mercury |url=http://www.portlandmercury.com/portland/not-so-fast/Content?oid=10883366 |access-date=December 27, 2013 |archive-date=November 13, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131113170912/http://www.portlandmercury.com/portland/not-so-fast/Content?oid=10883366 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="nytimes1">{{cite news |last=Rhoden |first=William C. |date=June 20, 2013 |title=In Ali's Voice From the Past, a Stand for the Ages |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/21/sports/in-alis-voice-from-the-past-a-stand-for-the-ages.html |access-date=February 11, 2017 |archive-date=February 16, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170216135621/http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/21/sports/in-alis-voice-from-the-past-a-stand-for-the-ages.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Muhammad Ali refuses Army induction |url=https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/muhammad-ali-refuses-army-induction |access-date=November 5, 2020 |website=History.com |archive-date=November 6, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201106163449/https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/muhammad-ali-refuses-army-induction |url-status=live }}</ref>
	====Fantasy fight against Rocky Marciano====
	{{Main article|The Super Fight}}
	While still banned from sanctioned bouts, Ali accepted $10,000 to appear in a privately staged fantasy fight against retired champion Rocky Marciano.<ref name ="Enterprise News Sep 2009">{{cite news |title=Ali vs. Marciano: Who wins?
	|url=http://www.enterprisenews.com/article/20090901/News/309019646 |work=The Enterprise |date=September 1, 2009 |accessdate=July 19, 2016}}</ref> In 1969 the boxers were filmed sparring for about 75 one-minute rounds; they acted out several different endings.<ref name="The Guardian Nov 2012">{{cite web|title = The forgotten story of … the Rocky Marciano v Muhammad Ali Super Fight| url = https://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2012/nov/13/forgotten-story-rocky-marciano-muhammad-ali| date = November 13, 2012| publisher = The Guardian}}</ref> A computer program purportedly determined the winner, based on data about the fighters. Edited versions of the bout were shown in movie theaters in 1970. In the U.S. version Ali lost in a simulated 13th-round knockout, but in the European version Marciano lost due to cuts, also simulated.<ref name="Bingham 218">{{cite book|title=Muhammad Ali's Greatest Fight: Cassius Clay vs. the United States of America|first1= Howard|last1=Bingham|first2=Max|last2=Wallace|publisher=M. Evans|page = 218|year=2000}}</ref> Ali jokingly suggested that prejudice actually determined his defeat in the U.S. version. He was reported to say, "That computer was made in Alabama."<ref name ="Enterprise News Sep 2009"/>
			On April 28, 1967, Ali appeared in Houston for his scheduled induction into the U.S. Armed Forces, but he refused three times to step forward when his name was called. An officer warned him that he was committing a felony punishable by five years in prison and a fine of $10,000. Once more, Ali refused to budge when his name was called, and he was arrested. Later that same day, the ] suspended his boxing license and the ] stripped him of his title.<ref>{{cite news |first=B. F.|last=Kellum|title=Appeals Could Take 18 Months|date=April 29, 1967|newspaper=The Asheville Citizen|page=11|agency=AP|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/asheville-citizen-times-cassius-clay-tit/125005902/|via=]|access-date=May 20, 2023|archive-date=May 20, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230520095903/https://www.newspapers.com/article/asheville-citizen-times-cassius-clay-tit/125005902/|url-status=live}}</ref> Other boxing commissions followed suit. Ali remained unable to obtain a license to box in any state for over three years.<ref>{{cite book |title=More Than a Champion: The Style of Muhammad Ali |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Hc9tZ7IfUTEC&q=more%2Bthan%2Ba%2Bchampion%2Bprime |isbn=978-0-375-70005-7 |first=Jean |last=Reemstsma |year=1999 |publisher=Vintage |location=New York |access-date=March 14, 2012 |archive-date=January 17, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230117105540/https://books.google.com/books?id=Hc9tZ7IfUTEC&q=more+than+a+champion+prime |url-status=live }}</ref>{{page needed|date=June 2016}} On June 4, 1967, in a first for sports professionals, a group of high-profile African-American athletes including ], ], and ], as well as one political leader, ], assembled with Ali at the Negro Industrial Economic Union in Cleveland for what became known as the "]" or the "Muhammad Ali Summit". The meeting was organized by Brown for his peers to question Ali about the seriousness of his convictions, and to decide whether to support him, which they ultimately did.<ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200722012500/https://www.cleveland.com/sports/2012/06/gathering_of_stars.html |date=July 22, 2020 }}, Branson Wright for '']'' via Cleveland.com, June 3, 2012. Retrieved July 23, 2020.</ref>
	====Legal vindication====
	On August 11, 1970, with his case still in appeal, Ali was granted a license to box by the City of Atlanta Athletic Commission, thanks to State Senator ].<ref>{{cite magazine |first=John H. |last=Britton |title=Ga. Senator Gets TKOed By His Political 'Friends' |work=Jet |date=March 4, 1971 |pages=52–54}}</ref> Ali's first return bout was against ] on October 26, resulting in a win after three rounds after Quarry was cut.
			{{external media | width = 210px | float = right | video1 = , includes transcript, July 7, 1968, 28:55, ]<ref name="wgbhf">{{cite web |title=Conversation with Muhammad Ali |publisher=WGBH, Library of Congress, ] (WGBH and the Library of Congress), Boston, MA and Washington, DC. |date=July 7, 1968 |url=https://americanarchive.org/catalog/cpb-aacip_15-59c5c0ps |access-date=March 15, 2020}}</ref>
	A month earlier, a victory in federal court forced the New York State Boxing Commission to reinstate Ali's license.<ref name=cgnyrl >{{cite news |url=http://palmbeachpost.newspapers.com/image/132677737/?terms=%22Clay%2Bgranted%2BNew%2BYork%2Bring%2Blicense%22 |newspaper=The Palm Beach Post |agency=Associated Press |title=Clay granted New York ring license |date=September 15, 1970 |page=B4 |subscription=yes}}</ref> He fought ] at Madison Square Garden in December, an uninspired performance that ended in a dramatic ] of Bonavena in the 15th round. The win left Ali as a top contender against heavyweight champion ].
			}}
			At the trial on June 20, 1967, the jury found Ali guilty after only 21{{nbsp}}minutes of deliberation of the criminal offense of violating the ] by refusing to be drafted.<ref name="greatath" /> After a Court of Appeals upheld the conviction, the case was reviewed by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1971.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.law.cornell.edu/supremecourt/text/403/698 |title=Cassius Marsellus CLAY, Jr. also known as Muhammad Ali, Petitioner, v. United States. |website=LII / Legal Information Institute |access-date=February 8, 2017 |archive-date=June 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220620090024/https://www.law.cornell.edu/supremecourt/text/403/698 |url-status=live }}</ref>
	====First fight against Joe Frazier====
	{{Main article|Fight of the Century}}
	Ali and Frazier's first fight, held at the Garden on March 8, 1971, was nicknamed the "]", due to the tremendous excitement surrounding a bout between two undefeated fighters, each with a legitimate claim as heavyweight champions. Veteran boxing writer John Condon called it "the greatest event I've ever worked on in my life". The bout was broadcast to 35 foreign countries; promoters granted 760 press passes.<ref name="Hauser 2004"/>
			Ali remained free in the years between the Appellate Court decision and the ] ruling. As public opinion began turning against the war and the Civil Rights Movement continued to gather momentum, Ali became a popular speaker at colleges and universities across the country; this itinerary was rare if not unprecedented for a prizefighter. At ], for example, he gave his popular "Black Is Best" speech to 4,000 cheering students and community intellectuals, after he was invited to speak by sociology professor ] on behalf of the Black Power Committee, a student protest group.<ref>{{cite magazine |title="The Greatest" Is Gone |url=http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,919377-5,00.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070930083637/http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,919377-5,00.html |archive-date=September 30, 2007 |page=5 |magazine=] |date=February 27, 1978 |access-date=August 4, 2007}}</ref>
	Adding to the atmosphere were the considerable pre-fight theatrics and name calling. Ali portrayed Frazier as a "dumb tool of the white establishment". "Frazier is too ugly to be champ", Ali said. "Frazier is too dumb to be champ." Ali also frequently called Frazier an "Uncle Tom". Dave Wolf, who worked in Frazier's camp, recalled that, "Ali was saying 'the only people rooting for Joe Frazier are white people in suits, Alabama sheriffs, and members of the ]. I'm fighting for the little man in the ghetto.' Joe was sitting there, smashing his fist into the palm of his hand, saying, 'What the fuck does he know about the ghetto?'"<ref name="Hauser 2004"/>
			On June 28, 1971, the Supreme Court of the United States in '']'' overturned Ali's conviction by a unanimous 8–0 decision (Justice ] recused himself, as he had been the ] at the time of Ali's conviction).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.law.cornell.edu/supremecourt/text/403/698 |title=Cassius Marsellus Clay, Jr. also known as Muhammad Ali, Petitioner, v. United States. &#124; LII / Legal Information Institute |publisher=Law.cornell.edu |access-date=November 5, 2013 |archive-date=June 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220620090024/https://www.law.cornell.edu/supremecourt/text/403/698 |url-status=live }}</ref> The decision was not based on, nor did it address, the merits of Ali's claims per se. Rather, the Court held that since the appeal board gave no reason for the denial of a conscientious objector exemption to Ali, that it was therefore impossible to determine which of the three basic tests for conscientious objector status (offered in the ]'s brief) the appeal board relied on, and Ali's conviction must be reversed.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.oyez.org/cases/1970-1979/1970/1970_783 |title=Clay v. United States &#124; The Oyez Project at IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law |publisher=Oyez.org |access-date=November 5, 2013 |archive-date=October 29, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029185638/http://www.oyez.org/cases/1970-1979/1970/1970_783 |url-status=live }}</ref>
	Ali began training at a farm near Reading, Pennsylvania, in 1971 and, finding the country setting to his liking, sought to develop a real training camp in the countryside. He found a five-acre site on a Pennsylvania country road in the village of Deer Lake, Pennsylvania. On this site, Ali carved out what was to become his training camp, the camp where he lived and trained for all the many fights he had from 1972 on to the end of his career in the 1980s.
			In a 1974 interview, Ali said, "If they say stand and salute the flag I do that out of respect, because I'm in the country".<ref>{{cite AV media |url=https://tv.cuny.edu/show/dayatnight/PR1010390 |title=Day at Night: Muhammad Ali, legendary boxing champion |time=21:50 |date=February 19, 1974 |publisher=] |access-date=November 5, 2023 |archive-date=March 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308055658/https://tv.cuny.edu/show/dayatnight/PR1010390 |url-status=live }}</ref> Ali would later say, "If America was in trouble and real war came, I'd be on the front line if we had been attacked. But I could see that wasn't right."<ref>{{Cite web |title=Interview with Muhammad Ali |url=http://digital.wustl.edu/e/eii/eiiweb/ali5427.0743.004marc_record_interviewer_process.html |access-date=September 21, 2020 |website=digital.wustl.edu |archive-date=October 10, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201010203503/http://digital.wustl.edu/e/eii/eiiweb/ali5427.0743.004marc_record_interviewer_process.html |url-status=live }}</ref> He also said, "Black men would go over there and fight, but when they came home, they couldn't even be served a hamburger."<ref>{{Cite news |title=Oprah Talks to Muhammad Ali |language=en-us |work=Oprah.com |url=http://www.oprah.com/omagazine/oprah-talks-to-muhammad-ali_1/all |access-date=September 21, 2020 |archive-date=April 21, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421183956/https://www.oprah.com/omagazine/oprah-talks-to-muhammad-ali_1/all |url-status=live }}</ref>
	The Monday night fight lived up to its billing. In a preview of their two other fights, a crouching, bobbing and weaving Frazier constantly pressured Ali, getting hit regularly by Ali jabs and combinations, but relentlessly attacking and scoring repeatedly, especially to Ali's body. The fight was even in the early rounds, but Ali was taking more punishment than ever in his career. On several occasions in the early rounds he played to the crowd and shook his head "no" after he was hit. In the later rounds—in what was the first appearance of the "]"—Ali leaned against the ropes and absorbed punishment from Frazier, hoping to tire him. In the 11th round, Frazier connected with a left hook that wobbled Ali, but because it appeared that Ali might be clowning as he staggered backwards across the ring, Frazier hesitated to press his advantage, fearing an Ali counter-attack. In the final round, Frazier knocked Ali down with a vicious left hook, which referee Arthur Mercante said was as hard as a man can be hit. Ali was back on his feet in three seconds.<ref name="Hauser 2004"/> Nevertheless, Ali lost by unanimous decision, his first professional defeat.
			===Impact of Ali's draft refusal===
	====Fights against Wilt Chamberlain, Jerry Quarry, Floyd Patterson, Bob Foster, and Ken Norton====
			Ali's example inspired many black Americans and others. However, initially when he refused induction, he became arguably the most hated man in the country and received many death threats. People who supported Ali during this time were also threatened, including sports journalist ], whose columns defended Ali's decision not to serve. He wrote, "Bomb threats emptied our office, making the staff stand out in the snow. My car windshield was smashed with a sledgehammer."<ref>{{Cite web|last=Star-Ledger|first=Jerry Izenberg {{!}} For The|date=June 4, 2016|title=Why I called Muhammad Ali my friend|url=https://www.nj.com/sports/2016/06/former_heavyweight_champ_muhammad_ali_dies_the_gre.html|access-date=September 21, 2020|website=nj.com|language=en|archive-date=November 23, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201123200706/https://www.nj.com/sports/2016/06/former_heavyweight_champ_muhammad_ali_dies_the_gre.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Wolfson |first=Andrew |title=Muhammad Ali lost everything in opposing the Vietnam War. But in 1968, he triumphed |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2018/02/19/1968-project-muhammad-ali-vietnam-war/334759002/ |access-date=September 21, 2020 |website=USA Today |language=en-US |archive-date=August 10, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200810121610/https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2018/02/19/1968-project-muhammad-ali-vietnam-war/334759002/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''The New York Times'' columnist ] wrote, "Ali's actions changed my standard of what constituted an athlete's greatness. Possessing a killer jump shot or the ability to stop on a dime was no longer enough. What were you doing for the liberation of your people? What were you doing to help your country live up to the covenant of its founding principles?"<ref name="nytimes1" />
	In the same year basketball star ] challenged Ali, and a fight was scheduled for July 26. Although the seven foot two inch tall Chamberlain had formidable physical advantages over Ali, weighing 60{{nbsp}}pounds more and able to reach 14{{nbsp}}inches further, Ali was able to intimidate Chamberlain into calling off the bout by taunting him with calls of "Timber!" and "The tree will fall" during a shared interview. These statements of confidence unsettled his taller opponent to the point that he called off the bout.<ref>{{cite news|last1=O'Reilly|first1=Terry|title=Achilles Heel Advertising: Repositioning the Competition|url=http://www.cbc.ca/radio/undertheinfluence/achilles-heel-advertising-repositioning-the-competition-1.3473631|accessdate=March 27, 2016|publisher=Canadian Broadcasting Corporation|date=March 3, 2016}}</ref>
			Recalling Ali's anti-war position, ] said: "I remember the teachers at my high school didn't like Ali because he was so anti-establishment and he kind of thumbed his nose at authority and got away with it. The fact that he was proud to be a black man and that he had so much talent{{nbsp}}... made some people think that he was dangerous. But for those very reasons I enjoyed him."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://digital.wustl.edu/e/eii/eiiweb/abd5427.5952.001kareemabdul-jabbar.html |title=Interview with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar |publisher=Digital.wustl.edu |date=March 3, 1989 |access-date=November 5, 2013 |archive-date=October 29, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029193616/http://digital.wustl.edu/e/eii/eiiweb/abd5427.5952.001kareemabdul-jabbar.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
	After the loss to Frazier, Ali fought Jerry Quarry, had a second bout with Floyd Patterson and faced ] in 1972, winning a total of six fights that year. In 1973, ] broke Ali's jaw while giving him the second loss of his career. After initially seeking retirement, Ali won a controversial decision against Norton in their second bout, leading to a rematch at Madison Square Garden on January 28, 1974, with Joe Frazier, who had recently lost his title to George Foreman.
			Civil rights figures came to believe that Ali had an energizing effect on the freedom movement as a whole. ] spoke of his bravery at a time when there was still widespread support for the Vietnam War:
	====Second fight against Joe Frazier====
			{{blockquote|For the heavyweight champion of the world, who had achieved the highest level of athletic celebrity, to put all of that on the line—the money, the ability to get endorsements—to sacrifice all of that for a cause, gave a whole sense of legitimacy to the movement and the causes with young people that nothing else could have done. Even those who were assassinated, certainly lost their lives, but they didn't voluntarily do that. He knew he was going to jail and did it anyway. That's another level of leadership and sacrifice.<ref>{{cite news |title=Muhammad Ali: The man who changed his sport and his country |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-36450806 |publisher=BBC |date=June 5, 2016 |access-date=June 22, 2018 |archive-date=June 17, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190617171838/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-36450806 |url-status=live }}</ref>}}
	{{Main article|Muhammad Ali vs. Joe Frazier II}}
	Ali was strong in the early rounds of the fight, and staggered Frazier in the second round. Referee Tony Perez mistakenly thought he heard the bell ending the round and stepped between the two fighters as Ali was pressing his attack, giving Frazier time to recover. However, Frazier came on in the middle rounds, snapping Ali's head in round seven and driving him to the ropes at the end of round eight. The last four rounds saw round-to-round shifts in momentum between the two fighters. Throughout most of the bout, however, Ali was able to circle away from Frazier's dangerous left hook and to tie Frazier up when he was cornered, the latter a tactic that Frazier's camp complained of bitterly. Judges awarded Ali a unanimous decision.
			Ali was honored with the annual Martin Luther King Award in 1970 by civil rights leader ], who called him "a living example of soul power, the ] in two fists". ] added that Ali was "a champion of justice and peace and unity".<ref name="Ezra82">{{cite book |last=Ezra |first=Michael |title=Muhammad Ali: The Making of an Icon |date=2009 |publisher=] |isbn=978-1-59213-661-2 |page=82 |chapter=Muhammad Ali's Main Bout: African American Economic Power and the World Heavyweight Title |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Gh3rtDyeSAIC&pg=PA82 |access-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031223533/https://books.google.com/books?id=Gh3rtDyeSAIC&pg=PA82#v=onepage&q&f=false |url-status=live }}</ref>
	===Heavyweight champion (second reign)===
	{{Main article|The Rumble in the Jungle|Thrilla in Manila}}
	The defeat of Frazier set the stage for a title fight against heavyweight champion ] in Kinshasa, Zaire, on October 30, 1974—a bout nicknamed "]". Foreman was considered one of the hardest punchers in heavyweight history. In assessing the fight, analysts pointed out that ] and ]—who had given Ali four tough battles and won two of them—had been both devastated by Foreman in second-round knockouts. Ali was 32 years old, and had clearly lost speed and reflexes since his twenties. Contrary to his later persona, Foreman was at the time a brooding and intimidating presence. Almost no one associated with the sport, not even Ali's long-time supporter ], gave the former champion a chance of winning.
			In speaking of the cost on Ali's career of his refusal to be drafted, his trainer Angelo Dundee said, "One thing must be taken into account when talking about Ali: He was robbed of his best years, his prime years."<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/7470417/muhammad-ali-was-continues-greatest |title=Dundee: Ali was, still is 'The Greatest' |work=ESPN |date=January 17, 2012 |access-date=November 5, 2013 |archive-date=October 14, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131014173453/http://espn.go.com/boxing/story/_/id/7470417/muhammad-ali-was-continues-greatest |url-status=live }}</ref> Ali's promoter ] did not support Ali's choice at the time, but in 2016 Arum stated: "when I look back at his life, and I was blessed to call him a friend and spent a lot of time with him, it's hard for me to talk about his exploits in boxing because as great as they were they paled in comparison to the impact that he had on the world. ... He did what he thought was right. And it turned out he was right, and I was wrong."<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-people-ali-arum/former-ali-promoter-bob-arum-recalls-boxers-impact-on-society-idUSKCN0YR01R?mod=related&channelName= |last=Whitcomb |first=Dan |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804082551/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-people-ali-arum/former-ali-promoter-bob-arum-recalls-boxers-impact-on-society-idUSKCN0YR01R?mod=related&channelName= |archive-date=August 4, 2020 |title=Former Ali promoter Bob Arum recalls boxer's impact on society |work=] |date=June 5, 2016 |access-date=April 24, 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref>
	]
	As usual, Ali was confident and colorful before the fight. He told interviewer ], "If you think the world was surprised when Nixon resigned, wait 'til I whup Foreman's behind!"<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1aGHpXt_hMc |title=Muhammad Ali- The Rumble In The Jungle(Interview) |publisher=YouTube |date=March 22, 1967 |accessdate=September 3, 2013}}</ref> He told the press, "I've done something new for this fight. I done wrestled with an alligator, I done tussled with a whale; handcuffed lightning, thrown thunder in jail; only last week, I murdered a rock, injured a stone, hospitalized a brick; I'm so mean I make medicine sick."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGk0R63C0eM |title=Muhammad Ali Inspirational Speech (Cassius Clay Boxing Motivation) |publisher=YouTube |date=September 14, 2012 |accessdate=September 3, 2013}}</ref> Ali was wildly popular in Zaire, with crowds chanting "Ali, bomaye" ("Ali, kill him") wherever he went.
			Ali's resistance to the draft was covered in the 2013 documentary '']''.<ref name="Rapold">{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/23/movies/trials-of-muhammad-ali-traces-alis-battle-over-vietnam.html |title=One of His Biggest Fights Was Outside of the Ring |last=Rapold |first=Nicolas |date=August 22, 2013 |work=] |access-date=August 29, 2016 |archive-date=July 1, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160701132100/http://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/23/movies/trials-of-muhammad-ali-traces-alis-battle-over-vietnam.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
	Ali opened the fight moving and scoring with right crosses to Foreman's head. Then, beginning in the second round—and to the consternation of his corner—Ali retreated to the ropes and invited Foreman to hit him while covering up, clinching and counter-punching, all while verbally taunting Foreman. The move, which would later become known as the "]", so violated conventional boxing wisdom—letting one of the hardest hitters in boxing strike at will—that at ringside writer ] thought the fight had to be fixed.<ref name="Hauser 2004"/> Foreman, increasingly angered, threw punches that were deflected and did not land squarely. Midway through the fight, as Foreman began tiring, Ali countered more frequently and effectively with punches and flurries, which electrified the pro-Ali crowd. In the eighth round, Ali dropped an exhausted Foreman with a combination at center ring; Foreman failed to make the count. Against the odds, and amidst pandemonium in the ring, Ali had regained the title by knockout. In reflecting on the fight, George Foreman later said: "I thought Ali was just one more knockout victim until, about the seventh round, I hit him hard to the jaw and he held me and whispered in my ear: 'That all you got, George?' I realized that this ain't what I thought it was."<ref>{{cite journal |last=Foreman |first=George |url=http://www.shortlist.com/entertainment/sport/george-foreman-on-ali |title=George Foreman on why Muhammad Ali was so much more than a 'boxer' |journal=] |date=January 2012 |accessdate=June 6, 2016}}</ref>
	] greets Ali at a White House dinner, 1977]]
			===NSA and FBI monitoring of Ali's communications===
	Ali's next opponents included ], ], and ]. Wepner, a journeyman known as "The Bayonne Bleeder", stunned Ali with a knockdown in the ninth round; Ali would later say he tripped on Wepner's foot. It was a bout that would inspire ] to create the acclaimed film, '']''.
			In a secret operation code-named "]", the ] (NSA) intercepted the communications of leading Americans, including Ali, Senators ] and ], Dr. ], prominent U.S. journalists, and others who criticized the U.S. war in Vietnam.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://www.jacobinmag.com/2016/06/the-hidden-history-of-muhammad-ali/ |title=The Hidden History of Muhammad Ali |first=Dave |last=Zirin |magazine=] |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=April 17, 2017 |archive-date=February 24, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170224101145/https://www.jacobinmag.com/2016/06/the-hidden-history-of-muhammad-ali/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="theguardian.com">{{cite news |first=Ed |last=Pilkington |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/sep/26/nsa-surveillance-anti-vietnam-muhammad-ali-mlk |title=Declassified NSA files show agency spied on Muhammad Ali and MLK |work=] |date=September 26, 2013 |access-date=April 16, 2017 |archive-date=September 26, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130926154853/http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/sep/26/nsa-surveillance-anti-vietnam-muhammad-ali-mlk |url-status=live }}</ref> A review by the NSA of the Minaret program concluded that it was "disreputable if not outright illegal".<ref name="theguardian.com" />
			In 1971, Ali's ] with Frazier was used by an activist group, the ], to pull off a burglary at an ] office in Pennsylvania; the anticipation for the fight was unlike anything else, so they believed the security would also be focused on the fight. This raid exposed the ] operations that included illegal spying on activists involved with the civil rights and anti-war movements. One of the COINTELPRO targets was Ali, and their activities included the FBI gaining access to his records as far back as elementary school; one such record mentioned him loving art as a child.<ref>{{cite web |last=Medsger |first=Betty |url=https://theintercept.com/2016/06/06/in-1971-muhammad-ali-helped-undermine-the-fbis-illegal-spying-on-americans/ |title=In 1971, Muhammad Ali Helped Undermine the FBI's Illegal Spying on Americans |work=] |date=June 6, 2016 |access-date=April 17, 2017 |archive-date=April 27, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170427235216/https://theintercept.com/2016/06/06/in-1971-muhammad-ali-helped-undermine-the-fbis-illegal-spying-on-americans/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
	Ali then agreed to a third match with Joe Frazier in ]. The bout, known as the "]", was held on October 1, 1975,<ref name="greatath"/> in temperatures approaching {{convert|100|°F|°C}}. In the first rounds, Ali was aggressive, moving and exchanging blows with Frazier. However, Ali soon appeared to tire and adopted the "rope-a-dope" strategy, frequently resorting to clinches. During this part of the bout Ali did some effective counter-punching, but for the most part absorbed punishment from a relentlessly attacking Frazier. In the 12th round, Frazier began to tire, and Ali scored several sharp blows that closed Frazier's left eye and opened a cut over his right eye. With Frazier's vision now diminished, Ali dominated the 13th and 14th rounds, at times conducting what boxing historian Mike Silver called "target practice" on Frazier's head. The fight was stopped when Frazier's trainer, Eddie Futch, refused to allow Frazier to answer the bell for the 15th and final round, despite Frazier's protests. Frazier's eyes were both swollen shut. Ali, in his corner, winner by TKO, slumped on his stool, clearly spent.
			==Exile and comeback==
	An ailing Ali said afterwards that the fight "was the closest thing to dying that I know", and, when later asked if he had viewed the fight on videotape, reportedly said, "Why would I want to go back and see Hell?" After the fight he cited Frazier as "the greatest fighter of all times next to me".
			In March 1966, Ali ]. He was systematically denied a boxing license in every state and stripped of his passport. As a result, he did not fight from March 1967 to October 1970—from ages 25 to almost 29—as his case worked its way through the appeals process before his conviction was overturned in 1971.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Muhammad Ali refuses Army induction|url=https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/muhammad-ali-refuses-army-induction|website=History|archive-date=November 6, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201106163449/https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/muhammad-ali-refuses-army-induction|url-status=live}}</ref>
			=== Protesting while exiled ===
	===Later career===
			During this time of inactivity, as ] began to grow and Ali's stance gained sympathy, he spoke at colleges across the nation, criticizing the Vietnam War and advocating African American pride and racial justice. Ali based himself in Chicago.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Glanton |first=Dahleen |title=Muhammad Ali's exile years in Chicago: 'Learning about life' |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-muhammad-ali-chicago-20160604-story.html |access-date=December 1, 2020 |website=Chicago Tribune |date=June 4, 2016 |archive-date=November 26, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201126200945/https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-muhammad-ali-chicago-20160604-story.html |url-status=live }}</ref> According to most close to him, his Chicago years were formative.
	]'s ], 1978, Baltimore, Maryland]]
	Following the Manila bout, Ali fought ], ], and ], winning the last by knockout.
			At the time, Ali was widely condemned by the ],<ref>{{cite news |last1=Tinsley |first1=Justin |title=What if the Muhammad Ali we knew had never existed? |url=https://andscape.com/features/muhammad-ali-birthday-what-if-he-had-never-existed/ |access-date=April 6, 2021 |work=] |date=January 17, 2018 |archive-date=August 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220817164712/https://andscape.com/features/muhammad-ali-birthday-what-if-he-had-never-existed/ |url-status=live }}</ref> with fears that his actions could potentially lead to mass ].<ref>{{cite news |title=Case of Muhammad Ali: The Ultimate Civil Disobedience |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/20780461/the-austin-american/ |work=] |date=May 3, 1967 |page=24 |access-date=April 6, 2021 |archive-date=June 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210615132436/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/20780461/the-austin-american/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Despite this, '']'' magazine noted in the late 1960s that Ali's popularity had increased during this time, especially among black people.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Secret Honeymoon of the Champ: Muhammad Ali joins Muslim speaking tour with his wedding trip |magazine=] |date=November 1967 |volume=23 |issue=1 |pages=146–151 (151) |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=xtsDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA151 |access-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031223535/https://books.google.com/books?id=xtsDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA151#v=onepage&q&f=false |url-status=live }}</ref>
	On June 1, 1976, Ali removed his shirt and jacket and confronted ] ] in the ring after his match at a ] show in ]. After dodging a few punches, Monsoon put Ali in an ] and dumped him to the mat. Ali stumbled to the corner, where his associate ] convinced him to walk away.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://boxinghalloffame.com/muhammad-ali-boxing-a-monsoon/|title=Muhammad Ali Boxing a Monsoon – Boxing Hall of Fame|date=December 29, 2012|publisher=boxinghalloffame.com|accessdate=June 9, 2016}}</ref>
			===''The Super Fight''===
	On June 26, 1976, Ali participated in ] in ] against Japanese professional wrestler and martial artist ].<ref name="sweetScience">{{cite web | last = Tallent | first = Aaron | title=The Joke That Almost Ended Ali's Career|url=http://www.thesweetscience.com/articles-of-2005/1716-the-joke-that-almost-ended-ali-s-career | accessdate=December 4, 2007|publisher=The Sweet Science}}</ref> Though the fight was a publicity stunt, Inoki's kicks caused bruises, two blood clots and an infection in Ali's legs.<ref name="sweetScience" /> The match was ultimately declared a draw.<ref name="sweetScience" /> After Ali's death, ''The New York Times'' declared it his least memorable fight.<ref></ref> In hindsight, CBS Sports said the attention the mixed-style bout received "foretold the arrival of standardized ] years later."<ref>{{cite news|last=Burkholder|first=Denny|url=http://www.cbssports.com/general/news/how-muhammad-alis-fascination-with-pro-wrestling-fueled-his-career-inspired-mma/|title=How Muhammad Ali's fascination with pro wrestling fueled his career, inspired MMA|publisher=]|date=June 6, 2016|accessdate=June 11, 2016}}</ref>
			{{Main|The Super Fight}}
			While banned from sanctioned bouts, Ali settled a $1&nbsp;million lawsuit against radio producer Murray Woroner by accepting $10,000 to appear in a privately staged fantasy fight against retired champion Rocky Marciano.<ref name="Enterprise News Sep 2009">{{cite news |title=Ali vs. Marciano: Who wins? |url=http://www.enterprisenews.com/article/20090901/News/309019646 |work=The Enterprise |date=September 1, 2009 |access-date=July 19, 2016 |archive-date=September 14, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914161353/http://www.enterprisenews.com/article/20090901/News/309019646 |url-status=live }}</ref> In 1969 the boxers were filmed sparring for about 75 one-minute rounds; they produced several potential outcomes.<ref name="The Guardian Nov 2012">{{cite news |title=The forgotten story of ... the Rocky Marciano v Muhammad Ali Super Fight |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2012/nov/13/forgotten-story-rocky-marciano-muhammad-ali |date=November 13, 2012 |newspaper=The Guardian |access-date=July 19, 2016 |archive-date=July 25, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230725193639/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2012/nov/13/forgotten-story-rocky-marciano-muhammad-ali |url-status=live }}</ref> A computer program purportedly determined the winner, based on data about the fighters, along with the opinions of approximately 250 boxing experts. Edited versions of the bout were shown in movie theaters in 1970. In the U.S. version Ali lost in a simulated 13th-round knockout, but in the European version Marciano lost due to cuts, also simulated.<ref name="Bingham 218">{{cite book |title=Muhammad Ali's Greatest Fight: Cassius Clay vs. the United States of America |url=https://archive.org/details/muhammadalisgrea0000bing |url-access=registration |first1=Howard |last1=Bingham |first2=Max |last2=Wallace |publisher=M. Evans |page= |year=2000|isbn=978-0-87131-900-5 }}</ref>
			Ali suggested that prejudice determined his defeat in the U.S. version; he was reported to have jokingly said, "That computer was made in ]."<ref name="Enterprise News Sep 2009" />
	Ali fought Ken Norton for the third time at ] in September 1976, which he won in a heavily contested decision, which was loudly booed by the audience. Afterwards, he announced he was retiring from boxing to practice his faith, having converted to ] after falling out with the Nation of Islam the previous year.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.newspaperarchive.com/SiteMap/FreePdfPreview.aspx?img=110827611?sec=Sports|title=Champion Ali Quits Boxing|work=The Paris News|page=12|accessdate=October 19, 2011 | date=October 1, 1976}}</ref>
			==Return==
	After returning to beat ] in May 1977, Ali struggled in his next fight against ] that September, getting pummeled a few times by punches to the head. Ali won the fight by another unanimous decision, but the bout caused his longtime doctor ] to quit after he was rebuffed for telling Ali he should retire. Pacheco was quoted as saying, "the New York State Athletic Commission gave me a report that showed Ali's kidneys were falling apart. I wrote to Angelo Dundee, Ali's trainer, his wife and Ali himself. I got nothing back in response. That's when I decided enough is enough."<ref name="Hauser 2004"/>
			On August 11, 1970, with his case still in appeal, Ali was granted a license to box by the City of Atlanta Athletic Commission. ], ] and Harry Pett had used their local political influence and set up the company House of Sports to organize the fight, underlining the influential power of Georgia's black politics in Ali's comeback.<ref>{{Cite magazine |first=David |last=Davis |title=Knockout: An oral history of Muhammad Ali, Atlanta, and the fight nobody wanted |magazine=] |date=October 1, 2005 |url=https://www.atlantamagazine.com/great-reads/knockout-oral-history-muhammad-ali-atlanta-fight-nobody-wanted/ |access-date=2024-10-13 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191031132439/https://www.atlantamagazine.com/great-reads/knockout-oral-history-muhammad-ali-atlanta-fight-nobody-wanted/ |archive-date=October 31, 2019 |url-status=live }}</ref> Ali's first return bout was against ] on October 26, resulting in a win after three rounds after Quarry was cut.
			A month earlier, a victory in federal court forced the New York State Boxing Commission to reinstate Ali's license.<ref name=cgnyrl >{{cite news |url=http://palmbeachpost.newspapers.com/image/132677737/?terms=%22Clay%2Bgranted%2BNew%2BYork%2Bring%2Blicense%22 |newspaper=The Palm Beach Post |agency=Associated Press |title=Clay granted New York ring license |date=September 15, 1970 |page=B4 |url-access=subscription |access-date=June 6, 2016 |archive-date=September 12, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160912212056/http://palmbeachpost.newspapers.com/image/132677737/?terms=%22Clay%2Bgranted%2BNew%2BYork%2Bring%2Blicense%22 |url-status=live }}</ref> He fought ] at Madison Square Garden in December, an uninspired performance that ended in a dramatic ] of Bonavena in the 15th round. The win left Ali as a top contender against heavyweight champion ].<ref>{{cite news |last=Kang |first=Jay Caspian |author-link=Jay Caspian Kang |date=April 4, 2013 |title=The End and Don King |work=] |publisher=] |url=http://www.grantland.com/story/_/id/9123674/don-king-faces-end-career |access-date=April 4, 2013 |archive-date=April 6, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130406192841/http://www.grantland.com/story/_/id/9123674/don-king-faces-end-career |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=McDougall |first=Christopher |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=hEyOBAAAQBAJ&pg=PA149 |title=The Best American Sports Writing 2014 |date=2014 |publisher=] |isbn=978-0-544-14700-3 |page=149 |author-link=Christopher McDougall |access-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031224237/https://books.google.com/books?id=hEyOBAAAQBAJ&pg=PA149#v=onepage&q&f=false |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Keating |first=Steve |date=March 5, 2021 |title=Ali, Frazier 'Fight of the Century' still packs a punch 50 years on |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-boxing-anniversary-ali-frazier-idUKKCN2AX2IS |access-date=March 16, 2021 |archive-date=March 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210306181803/https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-boxing-anniversary-ali-frazier-idUKKCN2AX2IS |url-status=live }}</ref>
	In February 1978, Ali faced ] at the Hilton Hotel in ]. At the time, Spinks had only seven professional fights to his credit, and had recently fought a draw with journeyman Scott LeDoux. Ali sparred less than two dozen rounds in preparation for the fight, and was seriously out of shape by the opening bell. He lost the title by split decision. A rematch followed shortly thereafter in New Orleans, which broke attendance records. Ali won a unanimous decision in an uninspiring fight, making him the first heavyweight champion to win the belt three times.<ref>''Muhammad Ali, The Glory Years'', Felix Dennis and Don Atyeo, p. 258.</ref>
			===Fight against Joe Frazier===
	Following this win, on July 27, 1979, Ali announced his retirement from boxing. His retirement was short-lived, however; Ali announced his comeback to face ] for the WBC belt in an attempt to win the heavyweight championship an unprecedented fourth time. The fight was largely motivated by Ali's need for money. Boxing writer Richie Giachetti said, "Larry didn't want to fight Ali. He knew Ali had nothing left; he knew it would be a horror."
			{{Main|Joe Frazier vs. Muhammad Ali}}
			Ali and Frazier's first fight, held at the Garden, was on March 8, 1971, while Ali's Supreme Court appeal was still pending. It was nicknamed the "]" due to the tremendous excitement surrounding a bout between two undefeated fighters, each with a legitimate claim to be heavyweight champion. Veteran U.S. boxing writer John Condon called it "the greatest event I've ever worked on in my life." The bout was broadcast to 36 countries; promoters granted 760 press passes.<ref name="Hauser 2004" />
			Adding to the atmosphere were the considerable pre-fight theatrics and name calling. Before the fight, Frazier called Ali "Cassius Clay," angering Ali who responded by calling Frazier a "dumb tool of the white establishment" and saying "Frazier is too ugly to be champ. Frazier is too dumb to be champ." Ali also frequently called Frazier an "]." Dave Wolf, who worked in Frazier's camp, recalled that "Ali was saying 'the only people rooting for Joe Frazier are white people in suits, Alabama sheriffs, and members of the ]. I'm fighting for the little man in the ghetto.' Joe was sitting there, smashing his fist into the palm of his hand, saying, 'What the fuck does he know about the ghetto?{{' "}}<ref name="Hauser 2004" />
	It was around this time that Ali started struggling with vocal stutters and trembling hands.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2012/12/21/us/muhammad-ali---fast-facts/ |title=Muhammad Ali Fast Facts |publisher=CNN |accessdate=February 20, 2013}}</ref> The ] (NAC) ordered that he undergo a complete physical in Las Vegas before being allowed to fight again. Ali chose instead to check into the ], who declared him fit to fight. Their opinion was accepted by the NAC on July 31, 1980, paving the way for Ali's return to the ring.<ref name="LVSun 50">{{cite news |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/muhammad-ali/timeline/ |title=Timeline: Fifty years of Las Vegas memories for Muhammad Ali |newspaper=Las Vegas Sun |accessdate=November 12, 2013 |last=Koch |first=Ed}}</ref>
			Ali began training at a farm near ], in 1971 and, finding the country setting to his liking, sought to develop a ] in the countryside. He found a five-acre site on a Pennsylvania country road in the village of ]. On this site, Ali carved out what was to become his training camp, where he trained for all his fights from 1972 to the end of his career in 1981.
	The fight took place on October 2, 1980, in Las Vegas Valley, with Holmes easily dominating Ali, who was weakened from thyroid medication he had taken to lose weight. Giachetti called the fight "awful ... the worst sports event I ever had to cover". Actor Sylvester Stallone at ringside said it was like watching an autopsy on a man who is still alive.<ref name="Hauser 2004"/> Ali's trainer Angelo Dundee finally stopped the fight in the eleventh round, the only fight Ali lost by knockout. The Holmes fight is said to have contributed to Ali's Parkinson's syndrome.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/27/arts/television/27muhammad.html | work=The New York Times | title=Boxing King Casts His Shadow, Even at Time of Defeat | date=October 26, 2009 | accessdate=March 5, 2012 | first1=Mike | last1=Hale}}</ref> Despite pleas to definitively retire, Ali fought one last time on December 11, 1981, in Nassau, Bahamas, against ], losing a ten-round decision.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ali to try again? |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1870&dat=19810816&id=9_EwAAAAIBAJ&sjid=_uAFAAAAIBAJ&pg=2603,113296&hl=en |newspaper=The Daytona Beach Sunday News-Journal |agency=Associated Press |publisher=Google News Archive |date=August 16, 1981 |accessdate=June 4, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=It's all over for Ali after loss |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=2199&dat=19811212&id=XKUyAAAAIBAJ&sjid=gOcFAAAAIBAJ&pg=3700,2405394&hl=en |newspaper=Lawrence Journal-World |agency=Associated Press |publisher=Google News Archive |date=December 12, 1981 |accessdate=June 4, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |first=William |last=Nack |authorlink=William Nack |title=Not with a bang but a whisper |url=http://www.si.com/vault/1981/12/21/826243/not-with-a-bang-but-a-whisper-after-losing-to-trevor-berbick-a-subdued-muhammad-ali-softly-admitted-that-his-illustrious-career-had-come-to-an-end |website=Sports Illustrated |date=December 21, 1981 |accessdate=June 4, 2016}}</ref>
			The Monday night fight lived up to its billing. In a preview of their two other fights, a crouching, bobbing and weaving Frazier constantly pressured Ali, getting hit regularly by Ali jabs and combinations, but relentlessly attacking and scoring repeatedly, especially to Ali's body. The fight was even in the early rounds, but Ali was taking more punishment than ever in his career up until that point. On several occasions in the early rounds, he played to the crowd and shook his head "no" after he was hit. In the later rounds—in what was the first appearance of the "] strategy"—Ali leaned against the ropes and absorbed punishment from Frazier, hoping to tire him. In the 11th round, Frazier connected with a left hook that wobbled Ali, but because it appeared that Ali might be clowning as he staggered backwards across the ring, Frazier hesitated to press his advantage, fearing an Ali counterattack. In the final round, Frazier knocked Ali down with a vicious left hook, which referee ] said was as hard as a man can be hit. Ali was back on his feet in three seconds.<ref name="Hauser 2004" /> Nevertheless, Ali lost by unanimous decision, his first professional defeat.
	==Personal life==
	===Marriages and children===		=== After his loss ===
			====Chamberlain challenge and Ellis fight====
	Ali was married four times and had seven daughters and two sons. Ali was introduced to cocktail waitress Sonji Roi by Herbert Muhammad and asked her to marry him after their first date. They were wed approximately one month later on August 14, 1964.<ref>{{cite book | last = Micklos | first = John Jr. | title = Muhammad Ali: "I Am the Greatest" |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=wjeaQAmQ0FMC&lpg=PP1&pg=PA54#v=onepage&f=false | year = 2010 | publisher = ] | location = Berkeley Heights, NJ | isbn = 978-0-7660-3381-8 | page=54}}</ref> They quarrelled over Sonji's refusal to adhere to strict Islamic dress and behavior codes, and her questioning of Elijah Muhammad's teachings. According to Ali, "She wouldn't do what she was supposed to do. She wore lipstick; she went into bars; she dressed in clothes that were revealing and didn't look right."<ref>{{cite book | last = Hauser| first = Thomas | title = Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times | year = 2012 | publisher = Open Road Integrated Media | isbn = 978-1-4532-4119-6 | page=252}}</ref> The marriage was childless and they divorced on January 10, 1966. Just before the divorce was finalized, Ali sent Sonji a note: "You traded heaven for hell, baby."<ref>{{cite book | last = Hauser| first = Thomas | title = Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times | year = 2012 | publisher = Open Road Integrated Media | isbn = 978-1-4532-4119-6 | page=288}}</ref>
			{{Main|Muhammad Ali vs. Jimmy Ellis}}
			In 1971, basketball star ] challenged Ali to a fight, and a bout was scheduled for July 26. Although the seven-foot-one-inch-tall Chamberlain had formidable physical advantages over Ali—weighing 60{{nbsp}}pounds more and able to reach 14{{nbsp}}inches further—Ali was able to influence Chamberlain into calling off the bout by taunting him with calls of "Timber!" and "The tree will fall" during a shared interview. These statements of confidence unsettled his taller opponent, whom ] owner ] had offered a record-setting contract, conditional on Chamberlain agreeing to abandon what Cooke termed "this boxing foolishness",<ref>{{cite news |title=Ali's Remark Ended Wilt's Ring Career |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1989-01-15-sp-979-story.html |at=Morning Briefing |work=Los Angeles Times |date=January 15, 1989 |access-date=February 20, 2020 |archive-date=June 3, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160603030813/http://articles.latimes.com/1989-01-15/sports/sp-979_1_wilt-s-ring-career |url-status=live }}</ref> and he did exactly that.<ref>{{cite news |last1=O'Reilly |first1=Terry |title=Achilles Heel Advertising: Repositioning the Competition |url=http://www.cbc.ca/radio/undertheinfluence/achilles-heel-advertising-repositioning-the-competition-1.3473631 |access-date=August 30, 2018 |publisher=Canadian Broadcasting Corporation |date=March 3, 2016 |archive-date=March 28, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160328021008/http://www.cbc.ca/radio/undertheinfluence/achilles-heel-advertising-repositioning-the-competition-1.3473631 |url-status=live }}</ref>
			Meanwhile, on June 28, 1971, the Supreme Court overturned Ali's draft evasion conviction. To replace Ali's opponent, promoter ] quickly booked a former sparring partner of Ali's, ], who was a childhood friend from ], to fight him. Ali won the bout through a technical knockout when the referee stopped the fight in the twelfth round.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1971/07/27/archives/victor-at-220-12-in-command-of-houston-bout-ali-stops-ellis-using.html |title=Victor, at 220½, in Command of Houston Bout |work=The New York Times |date=July 27, 1971 |access-date=May 18, 2022 |archive-date=May 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220517044730/https://www.nytimes.com/1971/07/27/archives/victor-at-220-12-in-command-of-houston-bout-ali-stops-ellis-using.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
	On August 17, 1967, Ali married ]. After the wedding, she, like Ali, converted to Islam. She changed her name to Khalilah Ali, though she was still called Belinda by old friends and family. They had four children: Maryum "May May" (born 1968), twins Jamillah and Rasheda (born 1970; Rasheda married Robert Walsh and has a son Biaggio Ali, born in 1998), and Muhammad Ali Jr. (born 1972).<ref name="familytreemaker">{{cite web|url=http://familytreemaker.genealogy.com/users/w/i/n/Keith-Winstead/WEBSITE-0001/UHP-0094.html |title=Winstead, Fry, Clay, Greathouse, and Alexander Family Tree:Information about Muhammad Ali |publisher=Familytreemaker.genealogy.com |accessdate=August 5, 2009}}</ref> Maryum has a career as an author and rapper.<ref>{{Cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=L7QDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA38 |title=Muhammad Ali's Daughter, Maryum "May May" Ali, Writes Children's Book About His Boxing Career |date=December 8, 2003 |page=38 |work=Jet |volume=104 |issue=24 |via=Google Books}}</ref>
			====Fights against Quarry, Patterson, Foster, Bugner and Norton====
	Ali was a resident of ], in the early 1970s.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://espn.go.com/sportscentury/features/00014057.html |title=Ali's camp now a bed and breakfast |publisher=ESPN |accessdate=January 29, 2012}}</ref> In 1974, Ali began a relationship with the 16-year-old Wanda Bolton (who subsequently changed her name to Aaisha Ali) with whom he fathered another daughter, Khaliah (born 1974). While still married to Belinda, Ali married Aaisha in an Islamic ceremony that was not legally recognized. According to Khaliah, she and her mother lived at Ali's Deer Lake training camp alongside Belinda and her children.<ref name="khalilah">{{cite news|title=ALI DAUGHTER TOSSES BOOK IN RING|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/archives/gossip/ali-daughter-tosses-book-ring-article-1.906525|work=New York Daily News|date=March 18, 2001}}</ref> In January 1985 Aaisha sued Ali for unpaid palimony. The case was settled when Ali agreed to set up a $200,000 trust fund for Khaliah.<ref>{{cite news|title=Former three-time heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali agreed Tuesday...|url=http://www.upi.com/Archives/1986/01/28/Former-three-time-heavyweight-boxing-champion-Muhammad-Ali-agreed-Tuesday/9145507272400/|work=UPI|date=January 28, 1986}}</ref> In 2001 Khaliah was quoted as saying she believed her father viewed her as "a mistake".<ref name="khalilah"/> He also had another daughter, Miya, from an extramarital relationship.<ref name=familytreemaker/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lifetimetv.co.uk/biography/biography-muhammed-ali |title=Muhammed Ali Biography |publisher=Lifetime |date=May 23, 2006 |accessdate=May 1, 2015}}</ref>
			After Ellis, Ali fought Jerry Quarry, had a second bout with Floyd Patterson, and faced ] in 1972, winning a total of six fights that year. During two bouts he had in 1973 with ] and ], he wore a "People's Choice" robe given to him by ].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.boxingnews24.com/2023/04/muhammad-ali-talks-about-his-relationship-with-elvis/|title=Muhammad Ali Talks About His Relationship With Elvis!|first=Ken|last=Hissner|publisher=Boxing News|date=April 21, 2023|accessdate=April 8, 2024|archive-date=April 8, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408071103/https://www.boxingnews24.com/2023/04/muhammad-ali-talks-about-his-relationship-with-elvis/|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1973, before his fight with Norton, Tom Cushman, a boxing writer for the ''Philadelphia Daily News'', said Ali was "gloriously overconfident" and didn't consider Norton "a threat at all."<ref name="Selbe-2020">{{Cite magazine |last=Selbe |first=Nick |date=March 31, 2020 |title=This Day in History: Ken Norton Breaks Muhammad Ali's Jaw |url=https://www.si.com/boxing/2020/03/31/this-day-history-ken-norton-muhammad-ali-broken-jaw |access-date=April 8, 2024 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |language=en-us |archive-date=April 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240408194759/https://www.si.com/boxing/2020/03/31/this-day-history-ken-norton-muhammad-ali-broken-jaw |url-status=live }}</ref> But during the fight, either in the second round according to most press reports, or the final round according to Norton, Norton broke Ali's jaw and inflicted by decision the second loss of his career.<ref name="Selbe-2020" /> After considering retirement, Ali won a controversial decision against Norton in their second bout.{{cn|date=November 2024}} This led to a rematch with Joe Frazier at Madison Square Garden on January 28, 1974; Frazier had recently lost his title to George Foreman.
			====Second fight against Joe Frazier====
	In 1975, Ali began an affair with ], an actress and model. While Ali was in the ] for the "]" against ], Belinda was enraged when she saw Ali on television introducing Veronica to ]. She flew out to Manila to confront Ali and scratched his face during their argument. Belinda later said that marriage to Ali was a "rollercoaster ride – it had its ups and its downs but it was fun". Referring to his infidelities, she said: "] and ] didn't have nothing on Muhammad Ali". She believes he had "many more" illegitimate children.<ref>{{cite news|title=More Ali children will come out of the woodwork like cockroaches: Boxer's second wife warns of claims to his £55million fortune by illegitimate offspring |url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3636203/More-Ali-children-come-woodwork-like-cockroaches-Boxer-s-second-wife-warns-claims-55million-fortune-illegitimate-offspring.html|work=Daily Mail|date=June 11, 2016}}</ref>
			{{Main|Muhammad Ali vs. Joe Frazier II}}
			], promotional photo]]
			Ali was strong in the early rounds of the fight, and staggered Frazier in the second round. Referee Tony Perez mistakenly thought he heard the bell ending the round and stepped between the two fighters as Ali was pressing his attack, giving Frazier time to recover. However, Frazier came on in the middle rounds, snapping Ali's head in round seven and driving him to the ropes at the end of round eight. The last four rounds saw round-to-round shifts in momentum between the two fighters. Throughout most of the bout, however, Ali was able to circle away from Frazier's dangerous left hook and to tie Frazier up when he was cornered, the latter a tactic that Frazier's camp complained of bitterly. Judges awarded Ali a unanimous decision.
			===World heavyweight champion (second reign)===
	By the summer of 1977, his second marriage was over and he had married Porché.<ref name="Porché Ali">{{cite news|title=Muhammad Ali's ex-wife reveals details about their secret wedding|url=http://ftw.usatoday.com/2014/10/muhammad-alis-ex-wife-reveals-details-about-their-secret-wedding|work=USA Today|date=June 6, 2016}}</ref> At the time of their marriage, they had a baby girl, Hana, and Veronica was pregnant with their second child. Their second daughter, ], was born in December 1977. By 1986, Ali and Porché were divorced.<ref name="Porché Ali" />
			====''The Rumble in the Jungle''====
			{{Main|The Rumble in the Jungle}}
			The defeat of Frazier set the stage for a title fight against heavyweight champion ] in Kinshasa, ], on October 30, 1974—a bout nicknamed '']''. Foreman was considered one of the hardest punchers in heavyweight history. In assessing the fight, analysts pointed out that ] and ], who had given Ali four tough battles and won two of them, had both been devastated by Foreman in second-round knockouts. Ali was 32 years old and had lost speed and reflexes since his twenties. Contrary to his later persona, Foreman was at the time a brooding and intimidating presence. Almost no one associated with the sport, not even Ali's long-time supporter Howard Cosell, gave the former champion a chance of winning.{{cn|date=November 2024}}
			As usual, Ali was confident and colorful before the fight. He told interviewer ], "If you think the world was surprised when Nixon resigned, wait till I whup Foreman's behind!"<ref>Archived at {{cbignore}} and the {{cbignore}}: {{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1aGHpXt_hMc |title=Muhammad Ali – The Rumble In The Jungle(Interview) |publisher=YouTube |date=March 22, 1967 |access-date=September 3, 2013}}{{cbignore}}</ref> He told the press, "I've done something new for this fight. I done wrestled with an alligator, I done tussled with a whale; handcuffed lightning, thrown thunder in jail; only last week, I murdered a rock, injured a stone, hospitalized a brick; I'm so mean I make medicine sick."<ref>Archived at {{cbignore}} and the {{cbignore}}: {{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGk0R63C0eM |title=Muhammad Ali Inspirational Speech (Cassius Clay Boxing Motivation) |publisher=YouTube |date=September 14, 2012 |access-date=September 3, 2013}}{{cbignore}}</ref> Ali was wildly popular in Zaire, with crowds chanting "Ali, bomaye" ("Ali, kill him") wherever he went.
	On November 19, 1986, Ali married Yolanda ("Lonnie") Williams. They had been friends since 1964 in Louisville. Together they adopted a son, Asaad Amin, when Amin was five months old.
			Ali opened the fight moving and scoring with right crosses to Foreman's head. Then, beginning in the second round, and to the consternation of his corner, Ali retreated to the ropes and invited Foreman to hit him while covering up, clinching and counterpunching, all while verbally taunting Foreman. The move, which would later become known as the "]", so violated conventional boxing wisdom—letting one of the hardest hitters in boxing strike at will—that at ringside writer ] thought the fight had to be fixed.<ref name="Hauser 2004" /> Foreman, increasingly angered, threw punches that were deflected and did not land squarely. Midway through the fight, as Foreman began tiring, Ali countered more frequently and effectively with punches and flurries, which electrified the pro-Ali crowd. In the eighth round, Ali dropped an exhausted Foreman with a combination at center ring; Foreman failed to make the count. Against the odds, and amidst pandemonium in the ring, Ali had regained the title by knockout. Reflecting on the fight, George Foreman later said: "I thought Ali was just one more knockout victim until, about the seventh round, I hit him hard to the jaw and he held me and whispered in my ear: 'That all you got, George?' I realized that this ain't what I thought it was."<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Foreman |first=George |url=http://www.shortlist.com/entertainment/sport/george-foreman-on-ali |title=George Foreman on why Muhammad Ali was so much more than a 'boxer' |magazine=] |date=January 2012 |access-date=June 6, 2016 |archive-date=June 11, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160611144417/http://www.shortlist.com/entertainment/sport/george-foreman-on-ali |url-status=live }}</ref>
	Kiiursti Mensah-Ali claims to be Ali's biological daughter with Barbara Mensah, with whom he had a 20-year relationship,<ref name=familytreemaker/><ref>{{cite news|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1355/is_n10_v91/ai_19082473/ |title=Muhammad Ali confesses illness put a stop to his 'girl chasing,' but his son is just starting |publisher=Findarticles.com |accessdate=August 5, 2009 | year=1997}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Miller |first=Davis |url=http://community.seattletimes.nwsource.com/archive/?date=19930912&slug=1720560 |title=Still Larger Than Life – To Millions, Muhammad Ali Will Always Be The Champ |work=The Seattle Times |accessdate=August 5, 2009 |date=September 12, 1993}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=mzTW9Nitee4C&printsec=frontcover |title=Entertainment Celebrities |first=Norbert B. |last=Laufenberg |publisher=Trafford Publishing |year=2005 |accessdate=December 5, 2010|isbn=978-1-4120-5335-8 |page=9}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Bollinger |first=Rhett |url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090611&content_id=5270622&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb |title=Angels draft boxing legend Ali's son |publisher=Major League Baseball |accessdate=June 5, 2016}}</ref> citing photographs and a paternity test conducted in 1988. She said he accepted responsibility and took care of her, but all contacts with him were cut off after he married his fourth wife Lonnie. Kiiursti claims to have a relationship with his other children. After his death she again made passionate appeals to be allowed to mourn at his funeral.<ref>{{cite news |last=Bucktin |first=Christopher |title=Muhammad Ali's secret daughter begs to see boxing legend one more time 'before he dies' |url=http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/muhammad-alis-secret-daughter-begs-4256662 |work=] |date=September 13, 2014 |accessdate=June 6, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://omgvoice.com/news/kiiursti-mensah-ali/ |title=6 Facts About Kiiursti Mensah Ali, Muhammed Ali's Ghanaian Daughter You Need To Know |author=Ofori-Mensah |publisher=omgvoice.com |date=June 5, 2016 |accessdate=June 6, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Foster |first1=Peter |last2=Allen |first2=Nick |title=Muhammad Ali's tangled love life leaves troubled legacy |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2016/06/04/muhammad-alis-tangled-love-life-leaves-troubled-legacy/ |work=] |date=June 4, 2016 |accessdate=June 6, 2016}}</ref>
			] greets Ali, along with his wife Veronica Porché, at a White House dinner, 1977.]]
			It was a major ] victory,<ref name="Herald">{{cite news|first=Bill|last=Lee|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-morning-herald/138782533/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240115100043/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-morning-herald/138782533/|title=Zaire's fight promotion opens new gold mines|newspaper=]|page=30|archive-date=January 15, 2024|date=November 18, 1974|access-date=January 15, 2024|via=]}}</ref> after Ali came in as a 4{{ndash}}1 ] against the previously unbeaten, heavy-hitting Foreman.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ali Regains Title, Flooring Foreman |url=https://archive.nytimes.com/www.nytimes.com/learning/general/onthisday/big/1030.html |work=] |date=October 30, 1974 |access-date=June 7, 2019 |archive-date=June 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210615140040/https://archive.nytimes.com/www.nytimes.com/learning/general/onthisday/big/1030.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The fight became famous for Ali's introduction of the rope-a-dope tactic.<ref name="guardian">{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/oct/29/rumble-in-the-jungle-muhammad-ali-george-foreman-book-extract |title=Rumble in the Jungle: the night Ali became King of the World again |date=October 29, 2014 |work=The Guardian |access-date=October 29, 2014 |archive-date=October 29, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141029183605/http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/oct/29/rumble-in-the-jungle-muhammad-ali-george-foreman-book-extract |url-status=live }}</ref> The fight was watched by a record estimated television audience of 1{{nbsp}}billion viewers worldwide.<ref name="usatoday">{{cite news |title=Revisiting 'The Rumble in the Jungle' 40 years later |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/boxing/2014/10/29/muhammad-ali-george-foreman-rumble-in-the-jungle-40th-anniversary/18097587/ |work=] |date=October 29, 2014 |access-date=May 11, 2018 |archive-date=November 1, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211101103836/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/boxing/2014/10/29/muhammad-ali-george-foreman-rumble-in-the-jungle-40th-anniversary/18097587/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="jet">{{cite magazine |title=Mike Tyson May Fight George Foreman In Biggest Money Match: $80 Million |magazine=] |date=September 18, 1995 |volume=88 |issue=19 |page=46 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=fTkDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA46 |access-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031224046/https://books.google.com/books?id=fTkDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA46#v=onepage&q&f=false |url-status=live }}</ref> It was the world's ] at the time.<ref name="briefly">{{cite news |last=Gitonga |first=Ruth |title=Most-watched television events in the world ever: Top 20 list ranked |url=https://briefly.co.za/facts-lifehacks/top/152256-most-watched-television-events-world-top-20-list-ranked/ |work=briefly.co.za |date=February 7, 2023 |access-date=November 5, 2023 |archive-date=March 14, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230314153340/https://briefly.co.za/facts-lifehacks/top/152256-most-watched-television-events-world-top-20-list-ranked/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
	In 2010, Osmon Williams came forward claiming to be Ali's biological son.<ref>{{cite news|title=Ali's alleged lovechild talks to tabloids |url=http://www.express.co.uk/celebrity-news/157579/Ali-s-alleged-lovechild-talks-to-tabloids |work=] |date=February 11, 2010 |accessdate=October 15, 2016}}</ref> His mother Temica Williams (also known as Rebecca Holloway) had sued Ali for sexual assault in 1981, claiming that she had started a sexual relationship with him when she was 12, and that her son Osmon (born 1977) was fathered by Ali. The case went on until 1986 and was eventually thrown out as her allegations were deemed to be barred by the ].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.allcourtdata.com/law/case/williams-v-ali/cw3BaicI?page=1 | agency=All Court Data | title=TEMICA WILLIAMS a/k/a Rebecca Jean Holloway, Plaintiff-Appellant, v. MUHAMMAD ALI, Defendant-Appellee.|accessdate=October 15, 2016}}</ref>
			====Fights against Wepner, Lyle and Bugner====
	Ali then lived in ], with Lonnie.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.upi.com/Sports_News/2013/02/04/Brother-Muhammad-Alis-health-failing/UPI-72601359961200/ | agency=United Press International | title=Brother: Muhammad Ali's health failing | accessdate=September 4, 2014 | archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140813104029/http://www.upi.com/Sports_News/2013/02/04/Brother-Muhammad-Alis-health-failing/UPI-72601359961200/ | archivedate=August 13, 2014}}</ref> In January 2007 it was reported that they had put their home in ], up for sale and had purchased a home in eastern ] for $1,875,000.<ref>{{cite news|last=Shafer |first=Sheldon S. |title=Ali coming home, buys house in Jefferson County |newspaper=The Courier-Journal |date=January 25, 2007 |url=http://www.greaterlouisville.com/content/community/FYI/pdf/files/ali%20will%20return%20home,%20buys%20louisville%20house.pdf |archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5lKNtkUkW?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.greaterlouisville.com%2Fcontent%2Fcommunity%2FFYI%2Fpdf%2Ffiles%2Fali%2520will%2520return%2520home%2C%2520buys%2520louisville%2520house.pdf |archivedate=November 16, 2009 |accessdate=January 25, 2007 |deadurl=no |df=mdy }}</ref> Lonnie converted to Islam from Catholicism in her late twenties.<ref>Patricia Sheridan (December 3, 2007) , ''Pittsburgh Post-Gazette''. Retrieved July 28, 2009.</ref>
			Ali's next opponents included ], ], and ]. Wepner, a journeyman known as "The Bayonne Bleeder", stunned Ali with a knockdown in the ninth round; Ali would later say he tripped on Wepner's foot. The fight inspired ] to create the acclaimed film '']''.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/2006/08/10/rocky-stallone-settlement-cx_rs_0810autofacescan04.html#34f600e166bd |title=Stallone Settles With The 'Real' Rocky |first=R. M. |last=Schneiderman |date=August 10, 2006 |work=Forbes |access-date=October 16, 2019 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031224107/https://e.infogram.com/_/PGbi4jGUl7iSfajoEZwo?referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.forbes.com%2F2006%2F08%2F10%2Frocky-stallone-settlement-cx_rs_0810autofacescan04.html%3Fsh%3D29658a0a66bd&src=embed#34f600e166bd |url-status=live }}</ref>
			====Third fight against Joe Frazier====
	Ali's daughter Laila became a boxer in 1999,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.womenboxing.com/lailaali.htm |title=Laila Ali |publisher=Womenboxing.com |accessdate=January 29, 2012}}</ref> despite her father's earlier comments against female boxing in 1978: "Women are not made to be hit in the breast, and face like that... the body's not made to be punched right here . Get ''hit'' in the breast... ''hard''... and all that."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.womenboxing.com/ali.htm |title=Boxing- Muhammad Ali |publisher=Womenboxing.com |date=June 8, 2001 |accessdate=January 29, 2012}}</ref>
			{{Main|Thrilla in Manila}}
			Ali then agreed to a third match with Joe Frazier in ]. The bout, known as the "]", was held on October 1, 1975,<ref name="greatath" /> in temperatures approaching {{convert|100|°F|°C}}. In the first rounds, Ali was aggressive, moving and exchanging blows with Frazier. However, Ali soon appeared to tire and adopted the "rope-a-dope" strategy, frequently resorting to clinches. During this part of the bout Ali did some effective counterpunching, but for the most part absorbed punishment from a relentlessly attacking Frazier. In the 12th round, Frazier began to tire, and Ali scored several sharp blows that closed Frazier's left eye and opened a cut over his right eye. With Frazier's vision now diminished, Ali dominated the 13th and 14th rounds, at times conducting what boxing historian Mike Silver called "target practice" on Frazier's head. The fight was stopped when Frazier's trainer, Eddie Futch, refused to allow Frazier to answer the bell for the 15th and final round, despite Frazier's protests. Frazier's eyes were both swollen shut. Ali, in his corner, winner by TKO, slumped on his stool, spent.
			An ailing Ali said afterwards that the fight "was the closest thing to dying that I know", and, when later asked if he had viewed the fight on videotape, reportedly said, "Why would I want to go back and see Hell?" After the fight he cited Frazier as "the greatest fighter of all times next to me".
	Ali's daughter Hana is married to ] ] fighter ].<ref>{{cite news |last=Cepeda |first=Elias |url=http://www.foxsports.com/ufc/story/kevin-casey-will-fight-at-ufc-199-despite-passing-of-legendary-father-in-law-muhammad-ali-060416 |title=Kevin Casey will fight at UFC 199 despite passing of father-in-law Muhammad Ali |publisher=] |date=June 4, 2016 |accessdate=June 6, 2016}}</ref>
			After the third fight with Frazier, Ali considered retirement. He said, "I'm sore all over. My arms, my face, my sides all ache. I'm so, so tired. There is a great possibility that I will retire. You might have seen the last of me. I want to sit back and count my money, live in my house and my farm, work for my people and concentrate on my family."<ref>{{cite web |url=https://fight-library.com/2019/05/28/history-lesson-thrilla-in-manila/ |title=History Lesson: Thrilla in Manila |publisher=Fight-Library.com |author=Blaine Henry |date=May 18, 2019 |access-date=March 4, 2020 |archive-date=October 31, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191031065245/https://fight-library.com/2019/05/28/history-lesson-thrilla-in-manila/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
	===Religion and beliefs===
	{{Main article|Religious views of Muhammad Ali}}
			===Later career===
	====Affiliation with the Nation of Islam====
			]'s ] in ], 1978]]
	Ali said that he first heard of the ] when he was fighting in the Golden Gloves tournament in Chicago in 1959, and attended his first Nation of Islam meeting in 1961. He continued to attend meetings, although keeping his involvement hidden from the public. In 1962, Clay met ], who soon became his spiritual and political mentor.<ref name="Guardian Mitchell">{{cite news |last=Mitchell |first=Kevin |title=From the Vietnam war to Islam – the key chapters in Ali's life |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2016/jun/04/muhammad-ali-key-chapters |work=] |date=June 4, 2016 |accessdate=June 5, 2016}}</ref> By the time of the first Liston fight, Nation of Islam members, including Malcolm X, were visible in his entourage. This led to a story in ''The Miami Herald'' just before the fight disclosing that Clay had joined the Nation of Islam, which nearly caused the bout to be canceled.
			On February 2, 1976, Ali defeated ] by 5th round knockout. The WBC Heavyweight title was not on the line for this fight. On April 30, 1976, Ali would fight ] and win a controversial unanimous decision. Howard Cosell would remark that he had "never seen Ali so off in his timing" and when asked on his performance against Young in the post-fight interview, Ali stated that he was "getting old" and that he was "preserving his energy" for Ken Norton.<ref>{{Citation |title=Muhammad Ali vs Jimmy Young ABC 1080p 60fps (1976) |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MR0Wg_XDSoY |language=en |access-date=January 25, 2023 |archive-date=January 25, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230125232742/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MR0Wg_XDSoY |url-status=live }}</ref> On May 24, 1976, Ali defeated ], winning by 5th round technical knockout. The punch used to knock Dunn out was taught to Ali by ] ] ]. Rhee called that punch the "Accupunch"; he learned it from ].<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.jhoonrhee.com/bio7.html |title=Jhoon Rhee, Father of American Tae Kwon Do |website=jhoonrhee.com |access-date=May 1, 2019 |archive-date=May 6, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190506223915/http://www.jhoonrhee.com/bio7.html }}</ref> The Dunn fight was the last time Ali would knock an opponent out in his boxing career.
			Ali fought ] for the third time in September 1976. The bout, which was held at ], resulted in Ali winning a controversial decision that ringside commentators had scored in favor of Norton. Afterwards, he announced he was retiring from boxing to practice his faith, having converted to ] after falling out with the Nation of Islam the previous year.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.newspaperarchive.com/SiteMap/FreePdfPreview.aspx?img=110827611%3Fsec%3DSports |title=Champion Ali Quits Boxing |work=The Paris News |page=12 |access-date=October 19, 2011 |date=October 1, 1976 |archive-date=June 7, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120607021747/http://www.newspaperarchive.com/SiteMap/FreePdfPreview.aspx?img=110827611%3Fsec%3DSports |url-status=live }}</ref>
	] in 1964]]
	In fact, Clay was initially refused entry to the Nation of Islam (often called the Black ]s at the time) due to his boxing career. However, after he won the championship from Liston in 1964, the Nation of Islam was more receptive and agreed to publicize his membership.<ref name="Guardian Mitchell" /> Shortly afterwards, Elijah Muhammad recorded a statement that Clay would be renamed ] (one who is worthy of praise) ] (] is the most important figure after Muhammad in ] view and fourth ] in ] view). Around that time Ali moved to the south side of Chicago and lived in a series of houses, always near the Nation of Islam's ] or Elijah Muhammad's residence. He stayed in Chicago for about 12 years.<ref>{{cite news |last=Steinberg |first=Neil |date=June 4, 2016 |title=For a time, Ali called Chicago home |url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/sports/steinberg-for-a-time-ali-called-chicago-home|newspaper=Chicago Sun-Times |access-date=June 5, 2016}}</ref>
			After returning to beat ] in May 1977, Ali struggled in his next fight against ] that September, getting pummeled a few times by punches to the head. Ali won the fight by another unanimous decision, but the bout caused his longtime doctor ] to quit after he was rebuffed for telling Ali he should retire. Pacheco was quoted as saying, "the New York State Athletic Commission gave me a report that showed Ali's kidneys were falling apart. I wrote to Angelo Dundee, Ali's trainer, his wife and Ali himself. I got nothing back in response. That's when I decided enough is enough."<ref name="Hauser 2004" />
	Only a few journalists (most notably ]) accepted the new name at that time. Ali later announced: "Cassius Clay is my slave name."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p014mvdx |title=History website, Muhammad Ali: "Cassius Clay is my slave name" |publisher=BBC |accessdate=July 2, 2013}}</ref> Not afraid to antagonize the white establishment, Ali stated, "I am America. I am the part you won't recognize. But get used to me. Black, confident, cocky; my name, not yours; my religion, not yours; my goals, my own; get used to me."<ref>{{cite news|title='I am America': Muhammad Ali's fight for civil rights|url=http://www.9news.com.au/world/2016/06/05/06/23/muhammad-ali-s-other-fight-for-civil-rights|accessdate=June 4, 2016|agency=Agence France-Presse|publisher=9News, Australia|date=June 5, 2016}}</ref> Ali's friendship with Malcolm X ended as Malcolm split with the Nation of Islam a couple of weeks after Ali joined, and Ali remained with the Nation of Islam.<ref name=AliBetrayedX>{{cite web |last=Cashill |first=Jack |url=http://www.wnd.com/2006/02/34736/ |title=Why Ali Betrayed Malcolm X |publisher=] |date=February 9, 2006|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref><ref name=Times64-03-09>{{cite news |url=http://query.nytimes.com/gst/abstract.html?res=9F07E6DA1230E033A2575AC0A9659C946591D6CF |title=Malcolm X Splits with Muhammad |accessdate=August 1, 2008 |last=Handler |first=M. S. |date=March 9, 1964 |work=The New York Times }} {{subscription}}</ref> Ali later said that turning his back on Malcolm was one of the mistakes he regretted most in his life.<ref name="Soul of a Butterfly">{{cite book|last1=Ali|first1=Muhammad|last2=Ali|first2=Hana Yasmeen|title=The Soul of a Butterfly: Reflections on Life's Journey|date=November 16, 2004|publisher=]|isbn=0-7432-6286-7|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=h6G-Cy5c0GgC|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref>
			In February 1978, Ali faced ] at the Hilton Hotel in ]. At the time, Spinks had only seven professional fights to his credit, and had recently fought a draw with journeyman Scott LeDoux. Ali sparred less than two dozen rounds in preparation for the fight and was seriously out of shape by the opening bell. He lost the title by split decision. A rematch occurred in September at the ] in New Orleans, Louisiana. 70,000 people attended the bout and paid a total of $6&nbsp;million admission, making it the largest live gate in boxing history at that time.<ref name="Times-Picayune, New Orleans, Peter Finney's column from 1978"> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180419053449/http://www.nola.com/sports/index.ssf/2016/06/read_peter_finneys_column_from.html |date=April 19, 2018 }}, ''The Times-Picayune'' NOLA.com (New Orleans, LA.), re-posted on June 4, 2016.</ref> Ali won a unanimous decision in an uninspiring fight, with referee Lucien Joubert scoring rounds 10–4, judge Ernie Cojoe 10–4, and judge Herman Preis 11–4. This made Ali the first heavyweight champion to win the belt three times.<ref>''Muhammad Ali, The Glory Years'', Felix Dennis and Don Atyeo, p. 258.</ref><ref name="RingsideReport.com, Kevin Kincade, 2016"> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180419053533/http://ringsidereport.com/?p=63321 |date=April 19, 2018 }}, RingsideReport.com, Kevin "The Voice" Kincade, September 22, 2016.</ref>
	] photographs Ali in February 1964, after his first ] to become ].|alt=Malcolm X is holding a camera and taking a picture of Ali, who is sitting at a luncheonette counter]]
	Aligning himself with the Nation of Islam, its leader ], and a narrative that labeled the white race as the perpetrator of genocide against African Americans made Ali a target of public condemnation. The Nation of Islam was widely viewed by whites and even some African Americans as a black separatist "hate religion" with a propensity toward violence; Ali had few qualms about using his influential voice to speak Nation of Islam doctrine.<ref name="thegrio.com">{{cite web|last=Garcia |first=Courtney |url=http://thegrio.com/2013/09/06/trials-of-muhammad-ali-highlights-boxers-anti-war-opposition/ |title='Trials of Muhammad Ali' highlights boxer's anti-war opposition |publisher=theGrio |date=September 6, 2013 |accessdate=November 5, 2013}}</ref> In a press conference articulating his opposition to the Vietnam War, Ali stated, "My enemy is the white people, not Viet Cong or Chinese or Japanese."<ref name="tribune">{{cite web|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-08-31/entertainment/ct-ae-0901-fall-movie-profile-20130831_1_muhammad-ali-opposer-chicago-director|title=The trials of a Chicago director making Muhammad Ali doc|website=Chicago Tribune|first=Nina|last=Metz|date=August 31, 2013|accessdate=July 31, 2016}}</ref> In relation to integration, he said: "We who follow the teachings of Elijah Muhammad don't want to be forced to integrate. Integration is wrong. We don't want to live with the white man; that's all".<ref>{{cite news|last=Mogul |first=Priyanka |url=http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/muhammad-ali-why-boxing-legend-converted-islam-refused-serve-vietnam-war-1563671 |title=Muhammad Ali: Why the boxing legend converted to Islam and refused to serve in the Vietnam War |work=]|date=June 4, 2016 |accessdate=August 30, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|title= The New Encyclopedia of Southern Culture: Volume 13: Gender |page=291 |editor1-last=Bercaw |editor1-first=Nancy |editor2-last=Ownby |editor2-first=Ted}}</ref>
			Following this win, on July 27, 1979, Ali announced his retirement from boxing. His retirement was short-lived, however; Ali announced his comeback to face ] for the WBC belt in an attempt to win the heavyweight championship an unprecedented fourth time. The fight was largely motivated by Ali's need for money. Boxing writer ] said, "Larry didn't want to fight Ali. He knew Ali had nothing left; he knew it would be a horror."
	Writer ] once noted that, "the Nation became Ali's family and Elijah Muhammad became his father. But there is an irony to the fact that while the Nation branded white people as devils, Ali had more white colleagues than most African American people did at that time in America, and continued to have them throughout his career."<ref name="Hauser 2004"/>
			It was around this time that Ali started struggling with vocal stutters and trembling hands.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://edition.cnn.com/2012/12/21/us/muhammad-ali---fast-facts/ |title=Muhammad Ali Fast Facts |work=CNN|access-date=February 20, 2013 |archive-date=March 27, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130327055610/http://edition.cnn.com/2012/12/21/us/muhammad-ali---fast-facts |url-status=live }}</ref> The ] (NAC) ordered that he undergo a complete physical in Las Vegas before being allowed to fight again. Ali chose instead to check into the ], who declared him fit to fight. Their opinion was accepted by the NAC on July 31, 1980, paving the way for Ali's return to the ring.<ref name="LVSun 50">{{cite news |url=http://www.lasvegassun.com/muhammad-ali/timeline/ |title=Timeline: Fifty years of Las Vegas memories for Muhammad Ali |newspaper=Las Vegas Sun |access-date=November 12, 2013 |last=Koch |first=Ed |archive-date=November 12, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131112134317/http://www.lasvegassun.com/muhammad-ali/timeline/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
	====Later beliefs====
	In a 2004 autobiography, Ali attributed his conversion to mainstream Sunni Islam to ] who gained control of the Nation of Islam, upon the death of Elijah Muhammad, and persuaded the Nation's followers to become adherents of Sunni Islam.<ref name = "Soul of a Butterfly 85">{{cite book|title=The Soul of a Butterfly|first1=Muhammad|last1=Ali|first2=Hana Yasmeen|last2=Ali|publisher=Simon & Schuster|pages = 85|year=2013}}</ref>
			====Fight stoppage vs. Larry Holmes====
	Ali had gone on the ] pilgrimage to ] in 1972, which inspired him in a similar manner to Malcolm X, meeting people of different colors from all over the world giving him a different outlook and greater ] awareness.<ref>{{cite journal|url=http://www.emel.com/article?id=109&a_id=1722&c=32|title=Muhammed Ali's Pilgrimage to Makkah|journal=]|issue=17|date=February 2006|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref> In 1977, he said that, after he retired, he would dedicate the rest of his life to getting "ready to meet God" by helping people, charitable causes, uniting people and helping to make peace.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mashable.com/2016/06/04/muhammad-ali-retirement-video/|title=Muhammad Ali had a thought-provoking response when asked about his retirement plans|website=]|last=Bryan|first=Chloe|date=June 4, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref> He went on another Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca in 1988.<ref name="timesofindia">{{cite news|last=Rajeev|first=K R|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kozhikode/Muhammad-Alis-visit-was-Kozhikodes-knockout-moment/articleshow/52597630.cms|title=Muhammad Ali's visit was Kozhikode's knockout moment|work=]|date=June 5, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref>
			{{main|Larry Holmes vs. Muhammad Ali}}
			On October 2, 1980, Ali returned to the ring to fight Holmes at ] in ]. Holmes, who fought under the nickname "The ] Assassin", easily dominated Ali. After the tenth round, ] stepped into the ring and instructed the referee to stop the fight. It was the only time Ali ever lost by ].
			Immediately after the fight, Ali was given painkillers and antidepressants, in violation of World Boxing Council rules prohibiting the administration of any drug before the postfight urinalysis.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Barnes |first1=Bart |title=Ali Faces Ring Suspension |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/sports/1980/10/15/ali-faces-ring-suspension/20b7b27d-ce78-485e-9b10-399387218d5a/ |newspaper=The Washington Post |access-date=April 5, 2023 |language=English |date=October 15, 1980 |archive-date=August 28, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170828170407/https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/sports/1980/10/15/ali-faces-ring-suspension/20b7b27d-ce78-485e-9b10-399387218d5a/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Eig |first1=Jonathan |title=Failed drug test was sign of the great man's decline |url=https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/failed-drug-test-was-sign-of-the-great-mans-decline-bcrwwbvnj |website=The Times |access-date=April 5, 2023 |language=English |date=September 30, 2017 |archive-date=November 11, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221111191348/https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/failed-drug-test-was-sign-of-the-great-mans-decline-bcrwwbvnj |url-status=live }}</ref>
	After the ] in 2001, he stated that "Islam is a religion of peace" and "does not promote ] or killing people", and that he was "angry that the world sees a certain group of Islam followers who caused this destruction, but they are not real Muslims. They are racist fanatics who call themselves Muslims". In December 2015, he stated that "True Muslims know that the ruthless violence of so-called Islamic ] goes against the very tenets of our religion", that "We as Muslims have to stand up to those who use Islam to advance their own personal agenda", and that "political leaders should use their position to bring understanding about the religion of Islam, and clarify that these misguided murderers have perverted people's views on what Islam really is."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/06/muhammad-ali-face-real-islam-160606040559103.html|title=Muhammad Ali: The face of 'real Islam'|publisher=]|date=June 6, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref>
			Giachetti called the fight "awful...the worst sports event I ever had to cover". Actor ] was ringside for the fight and said that it was like watching an autopsy on a man who is still alive.<ref name="Hauser 2004" /> The Holmes fight is said to have contributed to Ali's ].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/27/arts/television/27muhammad.html |work=The New York Times |title=Boxing King Casts His Shadow, Even at Time of Defeat |date=October 26, 2009 |access-date=March 5, 2012 |first1=Mike |last1=Hale |archive-date=March 10, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120310053609/http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/27/arts/television/27muhammad.html? |url-status=live }}</ref><ref> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112024309/https://www.cbc.ca/sports/muhammad-ali-doctor-doubts-parkinsons-1.3619442 |date=November 12, 2020 }} "Muhammad Ali's doctor doubts boxing led to Parkinson's", ''Associated Press'' via ''CBC'', June 6. 2016. Retrieved September 1, 2018.</ref><ref name="nytimes" /> Despite pleas to definitively retire, Ali fought one last time on ], in Nassau, ], against ], losing a ten-round decision.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ali to try again? |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1870&dat=19810816&id=9_EwAAAAIBAJ&pg=2603,113296&hl=en |newspaper=The Daytona Beach Sunday News-Journal |agency=Associated Press |date=August 16, 1981 |access-date=June 4, 2016 |archive-date=August 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210828083317/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1870&dat=19810816&id=9_EwAAAAIBAJ&pg=2603%2C113296&hl=en |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=It's all over for Ali after loss |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=2199&dat=19811212&id=XKUyAAAAIBAJ&pg=3700,2405394&hl=en |newspaper=Lawrence Journal-World |agency=Associated Press |date=December 12, 1981 |access-date=June 4, 2016 |archive-date=September 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210929102632/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=2199&dat=19811212&id=XKUyAAAAIBAJ&pg=3700,2405394&hl=en |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |first=William |last=Nack |author-link=William Nack |title=Not with a bang but a whisper |url=https://www.si.com/vault/1981/12/21/826243/not-with-a-bang-but-a-whisper-after-losing-to-trevor-berbick-a-subdued-muhammad-ali-softly-admitted-that-his-illustrious-career-had-come-to-an-end |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=December 21, 1981 |access-date=June 4, 2016 |archive-date=June 9, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160609212952/http://www.si.com/vault/1981/12/21/826243/not-with-a-bang-but-a-whisper-after-losing-to-trevor-berbick-a-subdued-muhammad-ali-softly-admitted-that-his-illustrious-career-had-come-to-an-end |url-status=live }}</ref>
	In later life, Ali developed an interest in ], which he referenced in his autobiography, '']''.<ref name="Soul of a Butterfly" /> Around 2005, Ali converted to ] and announced that out of all Islamic sects, he felt most strongly inclined towards Sufism.<ref name="CNN Lane 2016">{{cite news|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2016/04/28/sport/muhammad-ali-five-things-boxing/ |title=Muhammad Ali: Five things you never knew about the boxing legend |work=CNN |date=April 28, 2016|accessdate= November 18, 2016}}</ref><ref name="National Review Feb 2016">{{cite news|url=https://www.nationalreview.com/nrd/articles/431161/champ-and-mr-x |title=The Champ and Mr. X|work=National Review |date=February 29, 2016|accessdate= November 18, 2016}}</ref><ref name="Daily Beast June 2016">{{cite news|url=http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/06/04/muhammad-ali-america-s-first-muslim-hero.html |title=Muhammad Ali: America's First Muslim Hero|work=Daily Beast |date=June 4, 2016|accessdate= November 18, 2016}}</ref><ref name="Telegraph March 2016">{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/boxing/2016/03/02/family-faith-and-magic-tricks-my-40-year-friendship-with-muhamma/ |title=Family, faith and magic tricks: My 40-year friendship with Muhammad Ali|work=The Telegraph |date=March 4, 2016|accessdate= December 13, 2016}}</ref> According to Ali's daughter, Hana Yasmeen Ali, who co-authored ''The Soul of a Butterfly'' with him, Ali was attracted to Sufism after reading the books of ] which contain Sufi teachings.<ref name="On Being June 2016">{{cite news|url=http://www.onbeing.org/blog/omid-safi-muhammad-ali-unapologetically-black-unapologetically-muslim/8735 |title=Muhammad Ali: Unapologetically Black, Unapologetically Muslim|work=] |date=June 9, 2016|accessdate= December 13, 2016}}</ref><ref name="Beliefnet Hana Yasmeen Ali interview">{{cite news|url=http://www.beliefnet.com/faiths/islam/2005/02/muhammad-alis-new-spiritual-quest.aspx? |title=Muhammad Ali's New Spiritual Quest|work=] |accessdate= December 13, 2016}}</ref>
			==Exhibition bouts==
	==Vietnam War and resistance to the draft==
			Ali boxed both well-known boxers and celebrities from other walks of life, including ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thesweetscience.com/news/articles/1716-the-joke-that-almost-ended-ali-s-career/|title=The Joke That Almost Ended Ali's Career|author=Aaron Tallent|work=The Sweet Science|access-date=July 11, 2015|archive-date=February 21, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120221001501/http://www.thesweetscience.com/news/articles/1716-the-joke-that-almost-ended-ali-s-career}}</ref> ],<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/08/14/sports/michael-dokes-larger-than-life-heavyweight-boxer-dies-at-54.html |title=Michael Dokes, Larger-Than-Life Heavyweight Boxer, Dies at 54|newspaper=]|date=August 14, 2012|access-date=July 6, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120823203212/http://www.nytimes.com/2012/08/14/sports/michael-dokes-larger-than-life-heavyweight-boxer-dies-at-54.html |archive-date=August 23, 2012 }}</ref> ],<ref name="LasVegasSun.com">{{Cite web |title=Sammy Davis Jr. |url=https://lasvegassun.com/photos/galleries/2014/may/24/0524_sammy_davis/537957/ |access-date=June 8, 2023 |website=LasVegasSun.com |language=en |archive-date=October 15, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231015134250/https://lasvegassun.com/photos/galleries/2014/may/24/0524_sammy_davis/537957/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ],<ref name="LasVegasSun.com" /> ],<ref name="LasVegasSun.com" /> ],<ref name="LasVegasSun.com" /> ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://boxinghalloffame.com/muhammad-ali-boxing-footballs-lyle-alzado/|title=Muhammad Ali Boxing Football's Lyle Alzado|website=Boxing Hall of Fame|access-date=July 11, 2015|archive-date=July 15, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150715043410/http://boxinghalloffame.com/muhammad-ali-boxing-footballs-lyle-alzado/|url-status=live}}</ref> ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.greatesthockeylegends.com/2008/01/ali-vs-semenko-it-really-happened.html|title=Greatest Hockey Legends.com: Ali vs. Semenko – It Really Happened|work=Greatesthockeylegends.com|access-date=July 11, 2015|archive-date=July 6, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150706200625/http://www.greatesthockeylegends.com/2008/01/ali-vs-semenko-it-really-happened.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and Puerto Rican comedian ] (with ] acting as Agrelot's corner-woman).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.doncholito.org/filantropia.html|title=Filantropia – Fundación José Miguel Agrelot|work=Doncholito.org|access-date=July 11, 2015|archive-date=July 6, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150706181727/http://www.doncholito.org/filantropia.html}}</ref>
	{{See also|Clay v. United States}}
	{{Quote box |quote="My enemy is the white people, not Viet Cong or Chinese or Japanese. ''You'' my opposer when I want freedom. ''You'' my opposer when I want justice. ''You'' my opposer when I want equality. You won't even stand up for me in America for my religious beliefs — and you want me to go somewhere and fight, but you won't even stand up for me here at home?"
	| source = —Muhammad Ali to a crowd of college students during his exile<ref name = "tribune"/>
	| width = 35em
	| align = right}}
	Ali registered for conscription in the United States military on his 18th birthday and was listed as ] in 1962.<ref name=foley>{{citation |last=Foley |first=Michael |year=2003 |title=Confronting the War Machine: Draft Resistance during the Vietnam War |publisher=University of North Carolina Press |url=http://uncpress.unc.edu/browse/page/337 |isbn=0-8078-5436-0 }}</ref> In 1964, he was reclassified as Class 1-Y (fit for service only in times of national emergency) after he failed the ] qualifying test because his writing and spelling skills were sub-standard.<ref name=cmbpi>{{cite news|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=K7gzAAAAIBAJ&sjid=PzIHAAAAIBAJ&pg=6900,3388922 |newspaper=Lodi News-Sentinel |agency=United Press International |title=Clay may be put into 1-A class today |date=February 10, 1967 |page=13 }}</ref> (He was quoted as saying, "I said I was the greatest, not the smartest!")<ref name=foley/><ref name=neel/> By early 1966, the army lowered its standards to permit soldiers above the 15th percentile and Ali was again classified as 1-A.<ref name="greatath"/><ref name=foley/><ref name=neel>{{cite web|url=http://espn.go.com/page2/s/neel/011221.html |first=Eric |last=Neel|title=Page2 – Muhammad Ali from A to Z |publisher=ESPN |accessdate=November 5, 2013}}</ref> This classification meant he was now eligible for the draft and induction into the U.S. Army at a time when the U.S. was involved in the Vietnam War, a war which put him further at odds with the white establishment.<ref name="Roberts"/>
			===Ali vs Inoki===
	When notified of this status, Ali declared that he would refuse to serve in the army and publicly considered himself a ].<ref name="greatath"/> Ali stated: "War is against the teachings of the ]. I'm not trying to dodge the draft. We are not supposed to take part in no wars unless declared by ] or The Messenger. We don't take part in Christian wars or wars of any unbelievers." He stated: "Man, I ain't got no quarrel with them Viet Cong."<ref name = "Remnick 287">{{cite book| last= Remnick| first=David| title = King of the World: Muhammad Ali and the Rise of an American Hero |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=mErseIty9dwC| date=1998| publisher = Random House| isbn = 0-375-50065-0| page = 287 }}</ref> Ali elaborated: "Why should they ask me to put on a uniform and go ten thousand miles from home and drop bombs and bullets on brown people in Vietnam while so-called Negro people in Louisville are treated like dogs and denied simple human rights?"<ref>{{cite book| last = Haas| first = Jeffrey| title = The Assassination of Fred Hampton: How the FBI and the Chicago Police Murdered a Black Panther| url = https://books.google.com/books?id=ignjecF9pX4C| date = November 1, 2009| publisher = Lawrence Hill Books| isbn = 978-1-55652-765-4| page = 27 }}</ref>
			{{Main|Muhammad Ali vs. Antonio Inoki}}
			]
			On June 26, 1976, Ali participated in an exhibition bout in Tokyo against Japanese professional wrestler and martial artist ].<ref name="sweetScience">{{cite web |last=Tallent |first=Aaron |title=The Joke That Almost Ended Ali's Career |url=http://www.thesweetscience.com/articles-of-2005/1716-the-joke-that-almost-ended-ali-s-career |access-date=December 4, 2007 |publisher=The Sweet Science |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160709012841/http://www.thesweetscience.com/articles-of-2005/1716-the-joke-that-almost-ended-ali-s-career |archive-date=July 9, 2016 |date=February 20, 2005}}</ref> Ali was only able to land two jabs while Inoki's kicks caused two blood clots and an infection that almost resulted in Ali's leg being amputated, as a result of Ali's team insisting on rules restricting Inoki's ability to wrestle.<ref name="sweetScience" /> Because of this, the fight has been criticized for causing Ali trouble healthwise, mostly in terms of movement, later down the line; Ferdie Pacheco stated "Ali was still feeling the effects of his leg injury, and his mobility was not what it had been".<ref name="sweetScience" /> The match was not scripted and ultimately declared a draw.<ref name="sweetScience" /> After Ali's death, ''The New York Times'' declared it his least memorable fight.<ref name="leastMemorable">{{Cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/06/sports/who-lost-when-muhammad-ali-fought-a-pro-wrestler-the-fans.html |title=Ali's Least Memorable Fight |last=Mather |first=Victor |date=June 5, 2016 |newspaper=The New York Times |access-date=February 11, 2017 |archive-date=July 30, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220730031616/https://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/06/sports/who-lost-when-muhammad-ali-fought-a-pro-wrestler-the-fans.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Most boxing commentators at the time viewed the fight negatively and hoped it would be forgotten as some considered it a "15-round farce".<ref name="forgottenInfluence">{{cite magazine |last1=Gross |first1=Josh |title=Muhammad Ali's Forgotten Fight Was Also One of His Most Influential |url=http://www.newsweek.com/muhammad-ali-antonio-inoki-mixed-martial-arts-ufc-japan-mma-boxing-wrestling-474502 |access-date=April 10, 2018 |magazine=Newsweek |date=June 25, 2016 |archive-date=April 26, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190426153926/https://www.newsweek.com/muhammad-ali-antonio-inoki-mixed-martial-arts-ufc-japan-mma-boxing-wrestling-474502 |url-status=live }}</ref> Today it is considered by some to be one of Ali's most influential fights and CBS Sports said the attention the mixed-style bout received "foretold the arrival of standardized ] years later".<ref name="forgottenInfluence" /><ref>{{cite news |last=Burkholder |first=Denny |url=http://www.cbssports.com/general/news/how-muhammad-alis-fascination-with-pro-wrestling-fueled-his-career-inspired-mma/ |title=How Muhammad Ali's fascination with pro wrestling fueled his career, inspired MMA |work=] |date=June 6, 2016 |access-date=June 11, 2016 |archive-date=August 7, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220807202007/https://www.cbssports.com/general/news/how-muhammad-alis-fascination-with-pro-wrestling-fueled-his-career-inspired-mma/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Ali and Inoki began a friendship after the fight.<ref name="NK">{{cite web |last1=Hall |first1=Nick |title=Collision in Korea: Pyongyang's historic socialism and spandex spectacular |url=https://www.nknews.org/2020/04/collision-in-korea-pyongyangs-historic-socialism-and-spandex-spectacular/ |website=] |date=April 29, 2020 |access-date=June 1, 2020 |archive-date=June 3, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200603164258/https://www.nknews.org/2020/04/collision-in-korea-pyongyangs-historic-socialism-and-spandex-spectacular/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
			===Ali vs Alzado===
	Appearing for his scheduled induction into the U.S. Armed Forces on April 28, 1967, in Houston, Ali refused three times to step forward at the call of his name. An officer warned him he was committing a felony punishable by five years in prison and a fine of $10,000. Once more, Ali refused to budge when his name was called. As a result, he was arrested. On the same day the ] suspended his boxing license and stripped him of his title. Other boxing commissions followed suit. Ali would not be able to obtain a license to box in any state for over three years.<ref>{{cite book | title = More Than a Champion: The Style of Muhammad Ali | url = https://books.google.com/books?id=Hc9tZ7IfUTEC&printsec=frontcover&dq=more+than+a+champion+prime#v=onepage&q=stronger&f=false | isbn = 978-0-375-70005-7 | first = Jean | last = Reemstsma | year = 1999 | publisher = Vintage | location = New York | accessdate = March 14, 2012 | page = }}</ref>{{page needed|date=June 2016}}
			In 1979, Ali fought an ] against ] player ]. The fight went 8 rounds and was declared a draw.<ref>{{cite news|last=Vaughan |first=Kevin |title=Goodbye, Mile High |publisher=Denver Rocky Mountain News |url=http://denver.rockymountainnews.com/milehigh/1223mile0.shtml |access-date=March 26, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080611093646/http://denver.rockymountainnews.com/milehigh/1223mile0.shtml |archive-date=June 11, 2008 }}</ref>
			===Ali vs Semenko===
	At the trial on June 20, 1967, after only 21{{nbsp}}minutes of deliberation, the jury found Ali guilty.<ref name="greatath"/> After a Court of Appeals upheld the conviction, the case went to the U.S. Supreme Court.{{citation needed|date=June 2016}}
			Ali fought ] player, ] in an exhibition on June 12, 1983.<ref name="ali">{{Cite web|url=https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/when-muhammad-ali-fought-hockey-s-heavyweight-champ--dave-semenko-191217806.html|title=When Muhammad Ali fought hockey's heavyweight champ, Dave Semenko|first=Greg|last=Wyshynski|website=ca.sports.yahoo.com|date=June 4, 2016|access-date=January 23, 2021|archive-date=January 31, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210131010806/https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/when-muhammad-ali-fought-hockey-s-heavyweight-champ--dave-semenko-191217806.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The match was officially a draw after going three rounds, but the ] reported Ali was not seriously trying for most of the bout, instead just toying with Semenko.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ali Still Packs Quite a Wallop |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=FAhlAAAAIBAJ&pg=PA75 |access-date=June 20, 2024 |work=The Calgary Herald |agency=Canadian Press |date=June 13, 1983 |language=en |location=Edmonton |archive-date=June 21, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240621032934/https://books.google.com/books?id=FAhlAAAAIBAJ&pg=PA75 |url-status=live }}</ref>
			==Personal life==
	In the years between the Appellate Court decision and the ] verdict, Ali remained free. As public opinion began turning against the war and the Civil Rights Movement continued to gather momentum, Ali became a popular speaker at colleges and universities across the country, rare if not unprecedented for a boxer. At Howard University, for example, he gave his popular "Black Is Best" speech to 4,000 cheering students and community intellectuals, after he was invited to speak by sociology professor ] on behalf of the Black Power Committee, a student protest group.<ref>{{cite news |title="The Greatest" Is Gone |url=http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,919377-5,00.html |page=5 |work=] |date=February 27, 1978 |accessdate=August 4, 2007}}</ref>
			===Marriages and children===
			{{hidden|style=float:right; clear:right; width:22em; margin-left:1em; border:1px #aaa solid;
			|title=Children of Muhammad Ali
			|content=
			* With Belinda Boyd
			** Maryum (born 1968)
			** Jamillah (born 1970)
			** Rasheda (born 1970)
			** Muhammad Jr. (born 1972)
			* With Patricia Harvell
			** Miya (born 1972)
			* With Wanda Bolton
			** Khaliah (born 1974)
			* With Veronica Porché
			** Hana (born 1976)
			** ] (born 1977)
			* With Yolanda Williams
			** Asaad (adopted 1986)
			}}
			Ali was married four times and had seven daughters and two sons. Ali was introduced to cocktail waitress Sonji Roi by ], who was to become Ali's long-time manager, and asked her to marry him after their first date. They married approximately one month later on August 14, 1964.<ref>{{cite book |last=Micklos |first=John Jr. |title=Muhammad Ali: "I Am the Greatest" |url={{GBurl|id=wjeaQAmQ0FMC|p=54}} |year=2010 |publisher=] |location=Berkeley Heights, NJ |isbn=978-0-7660-3381-8 |page=54}}</ref> They quarreled over Sonji's refusal to join the Nation of Islam.<ref name="Ali: A Life-2017">{{Cite web|url=http://www.alialife.com/press/2017/6/22/how-much-you-gonna-pay-me-asked-muhammad-alis-brother|title=Ep. 6: "How Much You Gonna Pay Me?" – Rahman Ali|website=Ali: A Life|date=July 3, 2017|access-date=October 27, 2020|archive-date=October 31, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201031020730/http://www.alialife.com/press/2017/6/22/how-much-you-gonna-pay-me-asked-muhammad-alis-brother|url-status=live}}</ref> According to Ali, "She wouldn't do what she was supposed to do. She wore lipstick; she went into bars; she dressed in clothes that were revealing and didn't look right."<ref>{{cite book |last=Hauser |first=Thomas |title=Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times |year=2012 |publisher=Open Road Integrated Media |isbn=978-1-4532-4119-6 |page=252}}</ref> The marriage was childless and they divorced on January 10, 1966. Just before the divorce was finalized, Ali sent Sonji a note: "You traded heaven for hell, baby."<ref>{{cite book |last=Hauser |first=Thomas |title=Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times |year=2012 |publisher=Open Road Integrated Media |isbn=978-1-4532-4119-6 |page=288}}</ref> Ali's brother Rahaman said that she was Ali's only true love and the Nation of Islam made Ali divorce her and Ali never got over it.<ref name="Ali: A Life-2017"/>
			On August 17, 1967, Ali married ]. In an interview with NBC 6, Boyd recounted meeting Ali when she was 10 years old at her hometown mosque. "He said, 'Listen here little girl. This is my name. Imma be famous. You need to keep that 'cause it's gone be worth a lot of money,'" Boyd said, mimicking Ali. "You'll never be famous with that name. And, I walked away," Boyd said.<ref>{{cite web |title= The Secrets of Ali: Former Wife of Boxing Champ Tells All |url= https://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/the-secrets-of-ali-former-wife-of-boxing-champ-tells-all/126869/ |website= nbcmiami.com |date= July 25, 2019 |language= en |access-date= November 6, 2022 |archive-date= November 6, 2022 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20221106045338/https://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/the-secrets-of-ali-former-wife-of-boxing-champ-tells-all/126869/ |url-status= live }}</ref> Born into a Chicago family that had converted to the Nation Of Islam, she later changed her name to Khalilah Ali, though she was still called Belinda by old friends and family. They had four children: author and rapper Maryum<ref>{{cite magazine |date=December 8, 2003 |title=Muhammad Ali's Daughter, May May Ali, Writes Children's Book About His Boxing Career |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=L7QDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA38 |magazine=] |volume=104 |issue=24 |pages=38–39 |issn=0021-5996 |via=Google Books |access-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031224050/https://books.google.com/books?id=L7QDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA38#v=onepage&q&f=false |url-status=live }}</ref> "May May" (born 1968); twins Jamillah and Rasheda (born 1970); and Muhammad Ali Jr. (born 1972).<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 26, 2014 |title=Muhammad Ali's son shut off from dad, living in poverty |url=https://nypost.com/2014/01/26/muhammad-alis-son-shut-off-dad-living-in-poverty-in-chicago/ |access-date=November 20, 2021 |archive-date=November 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211120063302/https://nypost.com/2014/01/26/muhammad-alis-son-shut-off-dad-living-in-poverty-in-chicago/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Rasheda married Robert Walsh and has two sons: Biaggio Ali (born 1998), who is an amateur ] fighter, and ] (born 2000), who is a professional boxer.<ref>{{cite news |title=For Muhammad Ali's grandson, family legacy extends beyond the ring |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/12/10/nico-ali-walsh-muhammad-ali-grandson/ |newspaper=Washington Post |access-date=December 12, 2021 |archive-date=December 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211210221337/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/12/10/nico-ali-walsh-muhammad-ali-grandson/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
	On June 28, 1971, the Supreme Court of the United States in '']'' overturned Ali's conviction by a unanimous 8–0 decision (Justice ] recused himself, as he had been the U.S. Solicitor General at the time of Ali's conviction).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.law.cornell.edu/supremecourt/text/403/698 |title=Cassius Marsellus CLAY, Jr. also known as Muhammad Ali, Petitioner, v. UNITED STATES. &#124; LII / Legal Information Institute |publisher=Law.cornell.edu |accessdate=November 5, 2013}}</ref> The decision was not based on, nor did it address, the merits of Ali's claims per se; rather, the Court held that since the Appeal Board gave no reason for the denial of a conscientious objector exemption to Ali, and that it was therefore impossible to determine which of the three basic tests for conscientious objector status offered in the Justice Department's brief that the Appeals Board relied on, Ali's conviction must be reversed.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.oyez.org/cases/1970-1979/1970/1970_783 |title=Clay v. United States &#124; The Oyez Project at IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law |publisher=Oyez.org |accessdate=November 5, 2013}}</ref>
			Ali was a resident of ] in suburban ] in the early 1970s.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/sportscentury/features/00014057.html |title=Ali's camp now a bed and breakfast |work=ESPN |access-date=January 29, 2012 |archive-date=February 9, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120209061407/http://espn.go.com/sportscentury/features/00014057.html |url-status=live }}</ref> At age 32 in 1974, Ali began an extramarital relationship with 16-year-old Wanda Bolton (who subsequently changed her name to Aaisha Ali) with whom he fathered another daughter, Khaliah (born June 1974). While still married to Belinda, Ali married Aaisha a year later in an Islamic ceremony that was not legally recognized. According to Khaliah, Aaisha and her mother lived at Ali's Deer Lake training camp alongside Belinda and her children.<ref name="khalilah">{{cite news|title=Ali Daughter Tosses Book in Ring|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/archives/gossip/ali-daughter-tosses-book-ring-article-1.906525|work=New York Daily News|first=George |last=Rush|author2=Joanna Molloy|author3=Lola Ogunnaike|author4=Kasia Anderson|date=March 18, 2001|access-date=October 15, 2016|archive-date=October 18, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161018225647/http://www.nydailynews.com/archives/gossip/ali-daughter-tosses-book-ring-article-1.906525}}</ref> In January 1985, Aaisha sued Ali for unpaid palimony. The case was settled when Ali agreed to set up a $200,000 trust fund for Khaliah.<ref>{{cite news |title=Former three-time heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali agreed Tuesday ... |url=http://www.upi.com/Archives/1986/01/28/Former-three-time-heavyweight-boxing-champion-Muhammad-Ali-agreed-Tuesday/9145507272400/ |work=UPI |date=January 28, 1986 |access-date=October 15, 2016 |archive-date=October 19, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161019012949/http://www.upi.com/Archives/1986/01/28/Former-three-time-heavyweight-boxing-champion-Muhammad-Ali-agreed-Tuesday/9145507272400/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2001 Khaliah was quoted as saying she believed her father viewed her as "a mistake".<ref name="khalilah" /> He had another daughter, Miya (born 1972), from an extramarital relationship with Patricia Harvell.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.lifetimetv.co.uk/biography/biography-muhammed-ali |title=Muhammed Ali Biography (sic) |publisher=Lifetime |date=May 23, 2006 |access-date=May 1, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150404103321/http://www.lifetimetv.co.uk/biography/biography-muhammed-ali |archive-date=April 4, 2015}}</ref>
	===Impact of Ali's draft refusal===
			]By the summer of 1977, his second marriage ended due to Ali's repeated infidelity, and he had married actress and model Veronica Porché.<ref name="Porché Ali">{{cite news |title=Muhammad Ali's ex-wife reveals details about their secret wedding |url=http://ftw.usatoday.com/2014/10/muhammad-alis-ex-wife-reveals-details-about-their-secret-wedding |work=USA Today |first=Josh |last=Peter |date=June 6, 2016 |access-date=June 6, 2016 |archive-date=October 5, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181005153523/https://ftw.usatoday.com/2014/10/muhammad-alis-ex-wife-reveals-details-about-their-secret-wedding |url-status=live }}</ref> At the time of their marriage, they had a daughter, Hana, and Veronica was pregnant with their second child. Their second daughter, ], was born in December 1977, and went on to become a professional boxer.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sandrarose.com/2008/03/laila-ali-expecting-a-baby|title=Laila Ali expecting a baby|date=March 26, 2008|publisher=Sandrarose.com|access-date=March 27, 2015|archive-date=May 7, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230507223720/https://sandrarose.com/2008/03/laila-ali-expecting-a-baby/|url-status=live}}</ref> By 1986, Ali and Porché were divorced due to Ali's continuous infidelity. Porché said of Ali's infidelity, "It was too much temptation for him, with women who threw themselves at him. It didn't mean anything. He didn't have affairs – he had one-night stands. I knew beyond a doubt there were no feelings involved. It was so obvious, It was easy to forgive him."<ref>{{Cite web |title=How Muhammad Ali's Ex-Wives Forgave His Infidelity: Cheating 'Never Meant Anything to Him' |first=Kurt |last=Pitzer |url=https://people.com/sports/muhammad-alis-ex-wives-forgave-his-infidelity/ |date=June 9, 2016 |access-date=October 28, 2020 |website=People |language=EN |archive-date=October 30, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201030232450/https://people.com/sports/muhammad-alis-ex-wives-forgave-his-infidelity/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
	Ali's example inspired countless black Americans and others. ''The New York Times'' columnist ] wrote, "Ali's actions changed my standard of what constituted an athlete's greatness. Possessing a killer jump shot or the ability to stop on a dime was no longer enough. What were you doing for the liberation of your people? What were you doing to help your country live up to the covenant of its founding principles?"<ref name="nytimes1"/>
			On November 19, 1986, Ali married Yolanda "Lonnie" Williams. Lonnie first met Ali at the age of 6 when her family moved to Louisville in 1963.<ref name="Crouse-2016">{{Cite news|last=Crouse|first=Karen|date=June 9, 2016|title=Muhammad Ali Was Her First, and Greatest, Love|language=en-US|work=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/10/sports/muhammad-ali-wife-lonnie-ali.html|access-date=June 3, 2021|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=June 3, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210603012222/https://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/10/sports/muhammad-ali-wife-lonnie-ali.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1982, she became Ali's primary caregiver and in return, he paid for her to attend graduate school at ].<ref name="Crouse-2016" /> Together they adopted a son, Asaad Amin (born 1986), when Asaad was five months old.<ref>Allen, Nick (June 5, 2016), {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620043638/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2016/06/05/could-muhammad-alis-80m-fortune-become-subject-of-bitter-legal-b/ |date=June 20, 2018 }}, ''The Daily Telegraph''.</ref> In 1992, Lonnie incorporated Greatest of All Time, Inc. (G.O.A.T. Inc) to consolidate and license his ] for commercial purposes. She served as the vice president and treasurer until the sale of the company in 2006.<ref name="Crouse-2016" />
	Recalling Ali's anti-war position, ] said: "I remember the teachers at my high school didn't like Ali because he was so anti-establishment and he kind of thumbed his nose at authority and got away with it. The fact that he was proud to be a black man and that he had so much talent{{nbsp}}... made some people think that he was dangerous. But for those very reasons I enjoyed him."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://digital.wustl.edu/e/eii/eiiweb/abd5427.5952.001kareemabdul-jabbar.html |title=Interview with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar |publisher=Digital.wustl.edu |date=March 3, 1989 |accessdate=November 5, 2013}}</ref>
			]
	Civil rights figures came to believe that Ali had an energizing effect on the freedom movement as a whole. ] spoke of his bravery at a time when there was still widespread support for the Vietnam War. "For the heavyweight champion of the world, who had achieved the highest level of athletic celebrity, to put all of that on the line – the money, the ability to get endorsements – to sacrifice all of that for a cause, gave a whole sense of legitimacy to the movement and the causes with young people that nothing else could have done. Even those who were assassinated, certainly lost their lives, but they didn't voluntarily do that. He knew he was going to jail and did it anyway. That's another level of leadership and sacrifice."<ref>{{cite news|title=Muhammad Ali: The man who changed his sport and his country|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-36450806|publisher=BBC|date=June 5, 2016}}</ref>
			Ali then lived in ] with Lonnie.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.upi.com/Sports_News/2013/02/04/Brother-Muhammad-Alis-health-failing/UPI-72601359961200/ |work=United Press International |title=Brother: Muhammad Ali's health failing |access-date=September 4, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140813104029/http://www.upi.com/Sports_News/2013/02/04/Brother-Muhammad-Alis-health-failing/UPI-72601359961200/ |archive-date=August 13, 2014}}</ref> In January 2007, it was reported that they had put their home in ], which they had bought in 1975,<ref>{{cite news |first=Dale |last=Brewer |title=When Ali was King |url=https://www.heraldpalladium.com/news/when-ali-was-king/article_b2f9f7b8-6988-57e1-a73f-78c2fdf67312.html |work=] |date=September 16, 2018 |access-date=September 16, 2018 |archive-date=September 16, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180916123936/https://www.heraldpalladium.com/news/when-ali-was-king/article_b2f9f7b8-6988-57e1-a73f-78c2fdf67312.html |url-status=live }}</ref> up for sale and had purchased a home in eastern ] for $1,875,000.<ref>{{cite news |last=Shafer |first=Sheldon S. |title=Ali coming home, buys house in Jefferson County |newspaper=The Courier-Journal |date=January 25, 2007 |url=http://www.greaterlouisville.com/content/community/FYI/pdf/files/ali%20will%20return%20home,%20buys%20louisville%20house.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090325161651/http://www.greaterlouisville.com/content/community/FYI/pdf/files/ali%20will%20return%20home,%20buys%20louisville%20house.pdf |archive-date=March 25, 2009 |access-date=January 25, 2007 }}</ref> Both homes were subsequently sold after Ali's death with Lonnie living in their remaining home in Paradise Valley, Arizona. Lonnie converted to Islam from Catholicism in her late twenties.<ref>{{cite news |last=Sheridan |first=Patricia |date=December 3, 2007 |url=http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07337/838655-129.stm |title=Patricia Sheridan's Breakfast With ... Lonnie Ali |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120118060129/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07337/838655-129.stm |archive-date=January 18, 2012 |work=] |access-date=January 7, 2024 }}</ref>
			Ali's daughter Laila was a professional boxer from 1999 until 2007,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.womenboxing.com/lailaali.htm |title=Laila Ali |publisher=Womenboxing.com |access-date=January 29, 2012 |archive-date=October 23, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023004825/http://www.womenboxing.com/lailaali.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> despite her father's previous opposition to women's boxing. In 1978, he said "Women are not made to be hit in the breast, and face like that."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.womenboxing.com/ali.htm |title=Boxing- Muhammad Ali |publisher=Womenboxing.com |date=June 8, 2001 |access-date=January 29, 2012 |archive-date=February 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210227065349/http://www.womenboxing.com/ali.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> Ali still attended a number of his daughter's fights. <ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2005/06/12/sports/othersports/laila-ali-with-her-father-watching-stays-undefeated.html |title=Laila Ali, With Her Father Watching, Stays Undefeated |newspaper=] |date=June 12, 2005 |access-date=May 26, 2018 |archive-date=May 27, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180527030905/https://www.nytimes.com/2005/06/12/sports/othersports/laila-ali-with-her-father-watching-stays-undefeated.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Ali's daughter Hana is married to ] ] fighter ]. Hana wrote about her father, "His love for people was extraordinary. I would get home from school to find homeless families sleeping in our guest room. He'd see them on the street, pile them into his Rolls-Royce and bring them home. He'd buy them clothes, take them to hotels and pay the bills for months in advance." She also said celebrities like ] and ] would often visit Ali.<ref>{{cite news |last=Cepeda |first=Elias |url=http://www.foxsports.com/ufc/story/kevin-casey-will-fight-at-ufc-199-despite-passing-of-legendary-father-in-law-muhammad-ali-060416 |title=Kevin Casey will fight at UFC 199 despite passing of father-in-law Muhammad Ali |work=] |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=June 6, 2016 |archive-date=June 6, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160606095809/http://www.foxsports.com/ufc/story/kevin-casey-will-fight-at-ufc-199-despite-passing-of-legendary-father-in-law-muhammad-ali-060416 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mohammed |first=Sagal |date=September 2, 2018 |title=My dad, the greatest: Hana Ali recalls the crushing heartache that would haunt her father his whole life |url=https://www.you.co.uk/hana-ali-my-dad-the-greatest/ |access-date=October 11, 2020 |website=You Magazine |language=en-US |archive-date=October 11, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011190231/https://www.you.co.uk/hana-ali-my-dad-the-greatest/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
	In speaking of the cost on Ali's career of his refusal to be drafted, his trainer Angelo Dundee said, "One thing must be taken into account when talking about Ali: He was robbed of his best years, his prime years."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://espn.go.com/boxing/story/_/id/7470417/muhammad-ali-was-continues-greatest |title=Dundee: Ali was, still is 'The Greatest'|publisher=ESPN |date=January 17, 2012 |accessdate=November 5, 2013}}</ref>
			====Paternity claims====
	Ali's resistance to the draft was covered in the 2013 documentary '']''.<ref name="Rapold">{{cite news|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/23/movies/trials-of-muhammad-ali-traces-alis-battle-over-vietnam.html|title=One of His Biggest Fights Was Outside of the Ring|last=Rapold|first=Nicolas|date=August 22, 2013|work=]|accessdate=August 29, 2016}}</ref>
			Kiiursti Mensah-Ali claims she is Ali's biological daughter with Barbara Mensah, with whom he allegedly had a 20-year relationship,<ref>{{Cite magazine |title=Muhammad Ali confesses illness put a stop to his 'girl chasing,' but his son is just starting. |magazine=] |via=Google Books |access-date=March 14, 2017 |date=January 27, 1997 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LjsDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA32 |volume=91 |number=10 |pages=32–33 |issn=0021-5996 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031224051/https://books.google.com/books?id=LjsDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA32#v=onepage&q&f=false |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Miller |first=Davis |url=https://archive.seattletimes.com/archive/19930912/1720560/still-larger-than-life----to-millions-muhammad-ali-will-always-be-the-champ |title=Still Larger Than Life – To Millions, Muhammad Ali Will Always Be The Champ |work=The Seattle Times |access-date=May 3, 2021 |date=September 12, 1993 |archive-date=June 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220610105241/http://community.seattletimes.nwsource.com/archive/?date=19930912 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=mzTW9Nitee4C |title=Entertainment Celebrities |first=Norbert B. |last=Laufenberg |publisher=Trafford Publishing |year=2005 |access-date=December 5, 2010 |isbn=978-1-4120-5335-8 |page=9 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031224604/https://books.google.com/books?id=mzTW9Nitee4C |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Bollinger |first=Rhett |url=http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090611&content_id=5270622&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb |title=Angels draft boxing legend Ali's son |publisher=Major League Baseball |access-date=June 5, 2016 |archive-date=August 19, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140819082741/http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090611&content_id=5270622&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb |url-status=live }}</ref> citing photographs and a paternity test conducted in 1988. She said he accepted responsibility and took care of her, but all contacts with him were cut off after he married his fourth wife Lonnie. Kiiursti says she has a relationship with his other children. After his death she again made passionate appeals to be allowed to mourn at his funeral.<ref>{{cite news |last=Bucktin |first=Christopher |title=Muhammad Ali's secret daughter begs to see boxing legend one more time 'before he dies' |url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/muhammad-alis-secret-daughter-begs-4256662 |work=] |date=September 13, 2014 |access-date=June 6, 2016 |archive-date=June 5, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160605081930/http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/muhammad-alis-secret-daughter-begs-4256662 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://omgvoice.com/news/kiiursti-mensah-ali/ |title=6 Facts About Kiiursti Mensah Ali, Muhammed Ali's Ghanaian Daughter You Need To Know (''sic'') |author=Ofori-Mensah |publisher=omgvoice.com |date=June 5, 2016 |access-date=June 6, 2016 |archive-date=June 6, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160606123844/http://omgvoice.com/news/kiiursti-mensah-ali/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Foster |first1=Peter |last2=Allen |first2=Nick |title=Muhammad Ali's tangled love life leaves troubled legacy |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2016/06/04/muhammad-alis-tangled-love-life-leaves-troubled-legacy/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220110/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2016/06/04/muhammad-alis-tangled-love-life-leaves-troubled-legacy/ |archive-date=January 10, 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |work=] |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=June 6, 2016}}{{cbignore}}</ref>
			In 2010, Osmon Williams came forward claiming to be Ali's biological son.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ali's alleged lovechild talks to tabloids |url=http://www.express.co.uk/celebrity-news/157579/Ali-s-alleged-lovechild-talks-to-tabloids |work=] |date=February 11, 2010 |access-date=October 15, 2016 |archive-date=October 19, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161019012508/http://www.express.co.uk/celebrity-news/157579/Ali-s-alleged-lovechild-talks-to-tabloids |url-status=live }}</ref> His mother Temica Williams (also known as Rebecca Holloway) launched a $3&nbsp;million lawsuit against Ali in 1981 for sexual assault, claiming that she had started a sexual relationship with him when she was 12, and that her son Osmon (born 1977) was fathered by Ali when she was 17.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1981/04/24/An-18-year-old-woman-has-filed-suit-seeking-3-million/3454356936400/ |work=United Press International |title=An 18-year-old woman has filed suit seeking $3 million ... |access-date=May 27, 2018 |date=April 24, 1981 |archive-date=May 28, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180528052011/https://www.upi.com/Archives/1981/04/24/An-18-year-old-woman-has-filed-suit-seeking-3-million/3454356936400/ |url-status=live }}</ref> She further alleged that Ali had originally supported her and her son financially, but stopped doing so after four years. The case went on until 1986 and was eventually thrown out as her allegations were deemed to be barred by the ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.allcourtdata.com/law/case/williams-v-ali/cw3BaicI?page=1 |website=All Court Data |title=''Temica Williams a/k/a Rebecca Jean Holloway, Plaintiff-Appellant, v. Muhammad Ali, Defendant-Appellee'' |access-date=October 15, 2016 |archive-date=October 19, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161019000108/http://www.allcourtdata.com/law/case/williams-v-ali/cw3BaicI?page=1 }}</ref> According to Veronica, Ali admitted to the affair with Williams, but did not believe Osmon was his son which Veronica supported by saying "Everybody in the camp was going with that girl."<ref>{{Cite book |last=Eig |first=Jonathan |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=JzjeDQAAQBAJ&q=veronica%2Beveryone%2Bin%2Bthe%2Bcamp%2Bgirl%2Bveronica%2Btemica%2Bali&pg=PR55 |title=Ali: A Life: Shortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year 2017 |date=2017 |publisher=Simon & Schuster UK |isbn=978-1-4711-5596-3 |language=en |access-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230724230538/https://books.google.com/books?id=JzjeDQAAQBAJ&pg=PR55&q=veronica%2Beveryone%2Bin%2Bthe%2Bcamp%2Bgirl%2Bveronica%2Btemica%2Bali |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Eig |first=Jonathan |year=2017 |title=Ali: A Life |location=London |publisher=Simon & Schuster |isbn=978-1-4711-5593-2 |oclc=968294310 |page=416}}</ref> Ali's biographer and friend ] has said this claim was of "questionable veracity".<ref>{{Cite news |date=September 29, 2017 |title='Ali: A Life': A biography that's not The Greatest – The Ring |language=en-US |work=The Ring |url=https://www.ringtv.com/518783-ali-life-biography-thats-not-greatest/ |access-date=September 6, 2020 |archive-date=May 17, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210517164140/https://www.ringtv.com/518783-ali-life-biography-thats-not-greatest/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
	===NSA and FBI monitoring of Ali's communications===
	In a secret operation code-named "]", the ] (NSA) intercepted the communications of leading Americans, including Ali, Senators ] and ], ], prominent U.S. journalists, and others who criticized the U.S. war in Vietnam.<ref> By Dave Zirin. ]</ref><ref name="theguardian.com">Ed Pilkington, , '']'', September 26, 2013.</ref> A review by the NSA of the Minaret program concluded that it was "disreputable if not outright illegal".<ref name="theguardian.com"/>
			===Religion and beliefs===
	In 1971, his ] with Frazier provided cover for an activist group, the ], to successfully pull off a burglary at an ] office in ], which exposed the ] operations that included illegal spying on activists involved with the civil rights and anti-war movements. One of the COINTELPRO targets was Ali, which included the FBI gaining access to his records as far back as ]; one such record mentioned him loving ] as a child.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://theintercept.com/2016/06/06/in-1971-muhammad-ali-helped-undermine-the-fbis-illegal-spying-on-americans/|title=In 1971, Muhammad Ali Helped Undermine the FBI's Illegal Spying on Americans|work=]|date=June 6, 2016}}</ref>
			{{Main|Religious views of Muhammad Ali}}
			====Affiliation with the Nation of Islam====
	==Later years==
			Ali said that he first heard of the ] when he was fighting in the Golden Gloves tournament in Chicago in 1959 and attended his first Nation of Islam meeting in 1961. He continued to attend meetings, although he kept his involvement hidden from the public. In 1962, Clay met ], who soon became his spiritual and political mentor.<ref name="Guardian Mitchell">{{cite news |last=Mitchell |first=Kevin |title=From the Vietnam war to Islam – the key chapters in Ali's life |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2016/jun/04/muhammad-ali-key-chapters |work=] |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=June 5, 2016 |archive-date=February 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180202190150/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2016/jun/04/muhammad-ali-key-chapters |url-status=live }}</ref> By the time of the first Liston fight, Nation of Islam members, including Malcolm X, were visible in his entourage. This led to a story in '']'' just before the fight disclosing that Clay had joined the Nation of Islam, which nearly caused the bout to be canceled. The article quoted Cassius Clay Sr. as saying that his son had joined the ] when he was 18.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1144&dat=19640207&id=XF4bAAAAIBAJ&pg=5091,2145696 |newspaper=The Pittsburgh Press |title=Muslim Charge Clams Up Clay |date=February 7, 1964 |access-date=September 7, 2020 |archive-date=August 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210828083315/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1144&dat=19640207&id=XF4bAAAAIBAJ&pg=5091%2C2145696 |url-status=live }}</ref>
	Ali began visiting ] starting in 1964, when he visited ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-36469288|title=In pictures: Muhammad Ali's love affair with Africa|publisher=]|date=June 9, 2016}}</ref> In 1974, he visited a ] camp in ], where Ali declared "support for the Palestinian struggle to liberate their homeland".<ref>{{cite news|last=Catron|first=Joe|url=https://www.mintpressnews.com/millions-mourn-death-muhammad-ali-black-palestinian-solidarity-championed-continues/216999/|title=Millions Mourn The Death Of Muhammad Ali As The Black-Palestinian Solidarity He Championed Continues|website=]|date=June 7, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref><ref name="thenation">{{cite journal|last=Zirin|first=Dave|url=http://www.thenation.com/article/andrew-cuomo-would-have-blacklisted-muhammad-ali/|title= Andrew Cuomo Would Have Blacklisted Muhammad Ali|journal=]|date=June 8, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref> In 1978, following his defeat to Spinks and before winning the rematch, Ali visited ] and received ] there.<ref>{{cite news|last=Rahman|first=Mizan|url=http://www.gulf-times.com/story/497055/Muhammad-Ali-s-forgotten-land-in-Bangladesh|title=Muhammad Ali's forgotten land in Bangladesh|work=]|date=June 6, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref> The same year, he participated in ], a protest march in the United States in support of ] rights, along with singer ] and actor ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2016/06/04/greatest-muhammad-ali-walks-164692|title='The Greatest' Muhammad Ali Walks On|publisher=]|last=Schilling|first=Vincent|date=June 4, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref>
			] in 1964]]
	In 1980, he visited ] and successfully convinced the government to ] the ] (in response to the ]).<ref>{{cite news|last=Cuddihy|first=Martin|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-06-09/muhummad-ali-is-remembered-by-africa/7495452|title=Muhammad Ali: Africa remembers the boxing legend|publisher=]|date=June 9, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref> On January 19, 1981, in ], Ali talked a ] man down from jumping off a ninth-floor ledge, an event that made national news.<ref>{{cite web
			In fact, Clay was initially refused entry to the Nation of Islam (often called the Black ]s at the time) due to his boxing career. However, after he won the championship from Liston in 1964, the Nation of Islam was more receptive and agreed to publicize his membership.<ref name="Guardian Mitchell" /> Shortly afterwards on March 6, Elijah Muhammad gave a radio address that Clay would be renamed ] (one who is worthy of praise) ] (most high).<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.espn.com/sportscentury/features/00014063.html |title=He is simply ... The Greatest |last=Schwartz |first=Larry |work=ESPN |access-date=March 4, 2018 |archive-date=August 13, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180813160258/http://www.espn.com/sportscentury/features/00014063.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Around that time Ali moved to the south side of Chicago and lived in a series of houses, always near the Nation of Islam's ] or Elijah Muhammad's residence. He stayed in Chicago for about 12 years.<ref>{{cite news |last=Steinberg |first=Neil |date=June 4, 2016 |title=For a time, Ali called Chicago home |url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/sports/steinberg-for-a-time-ali-called-chicago-home |newspaper=Chicago Sun-Times |access-date=June 5, 2016 |archive-date=June 5, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160605203256/http://chicago.suntimes.com/sports/steinberg-for-a-time-ali-called-chicago-home/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
	|url=http://www.slate.com/articles/sports/sports_nut/2016/06/the_time_muhammad_ali_stopped_a_man_from_leaping_to_his_death.html
	|title=The Time Muhammad Ali Stopped a Man From Leaping to His Death
	|first=Josh
	|last=Levin
	|work=Slate
	|date=June 4, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news
	|title=Ali Talks Would-Be Jumper Off Ninth-Floor Fire Escape
	|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1350&dat=19810119&id=CRJPAAAAIBAJ&sjid=nAIEAAAAIBAJ&pg=6956,2319132&hl=en
	|publisher=The Blade / Associated Press
	|date=January 20, 1981}}</ref>
			Only a few journalists, most notably Howard Cosell, accepted the new name at that time. Ali stated that his earlier name was a "]" and a "white man's name" and added that "I didn't choose it and I don't want it. I am Muhammad Ali, a free name".<ref name="Name origin">{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p014mvdx |title=History website, Muhammad Ali: "Cassius Clay is my slave name" |publisher=BBC |access-date=July 2, 2013 |archive-date=June 28, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130628071251/http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p014mvdx |url-status=live }}</ref> The person he was formerly named after was ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.yale.edu/2016/06/09/muhammad-ali-originally-named-ardent-abolitionist-and-yale-alumnus-cassius-clay |title=Muhammad Ali originally named for ardent abolitionist and Yale alumnus Cassius Clay |work=Yale News |first=Susan |last=Gonzalez |date=June 9, 2016 |access-date=August 17, 2021 |archive-date=December 14, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191214192245/https://news.yale.edu/2016/06/09/muhammad-ali-originally-named-ardent-abolitionist-and-yale-alumnus-cassius-clay |url-status=live }}</ref> Ali explained in his autobiography after studying his works, "he may have gotten rid of his slaves, but (he) held on to white supremacy."<ref name="Heritage">{{Cite web |title=Heritage of a Heavyweight |url=https://archive.nytimes.com/www.nytimes.com/books/98/10/25/specials/ali-heritage.html?_r=1 |access-date=September 27, 2020 |work=The New York Times |archive-date=June 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210615135238/https://archive.nytimes.com/www.nytimes.com/books/98/10/25/specials/ali-heritage.html?_r=1 |url-status=live }}</ref> Ali concluded: "Why should I keep my white slavemaster's name visible and my black ancestors invisible, unknown, unhonored?"<ref name="Name origin"/>
	Ali was diagnosed with ] in 1984, a disease that sometimes results from head trauma from activities such as boxing.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://www.nytimes.com/1984/09/20/sports/change-in-drug-helps-ali-improve.html?sec=health |title=Change In Drug Helps Ali Improve |last=Thomas |first=Robert McG. Jr. |work=The New York Times |pages=D–29 |accessdate=March 9, 2009 |date=September 20, 1984}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url= http://www.nytimes.com/1984/09/22/sports/sports-people-ali-leaves-hospital-vowing-take-better-care-himself-get-more-sleep.html |title=Ali Leaves Hospital Vowing to take better care of himself and get more sleep |work=The New York Times |accessdate=March 9, 2009 |date=September 22, 1984}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Friedman |first1=J. H. |title=Progressive parkinsonism in boxers |journal=Southern Medical Journal |volume=82 |issue=5 |pages=543–546 |year=1989 |pmid=2655100 |doi=10.1097/00007611-198905000-00002}}</ref> Ali still remained active during this time, however, later participating as a guest referee at ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/wm1/celebrities/ |title=WrestleMania I: Celebrities |publisher=Wwe.com |date=March 31, 1985 |accessdate=January 29, 2012 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110605013012/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/wm1/celebrities/ |archivedate=June 5, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/archive/alibday |title=Happy Birthday to 'The Greatest' |last=McAvennie |first=Mike |date=January 17, 2007 |publisher=WWE.com |accessdate=February 16, 2009}}</ref>
			Not afraid to antagonize the white establishment, Ali stated, "I am America. I am the part you won't recognize. But get used to me. Black, confident, cocky; my name, not yours; my religion, not yours; my goals, my own; get used to me."<ref>{{cite news |title='I am America': Muhammad Ali's fight for civil rights |url=http://www.9news.com.au/world/2016/06/05/06/23/muhammad-ali-s-other-fight-for-civil-rights |access-date=June 4, 2016 |agency=Agence France-Presse |work=9News |location=Australia |date=June 5, 2016 |archive-date=June 5, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160605101019/http://www.9news.com.au/world/2016/06/05/06/23/muhammad-ali-s-other-fight-for-civil-rights |url-status=live }}</ref> Ali's friendship with Malcolm X ended as Malcolm split with the Nation of Islam a couple of weeks after Ali joined, and Ali remained with the Nation of Islam.<ref name=Times64-03-09>{{cite news |url=https://query.nytimes.com/gst/abstract.html?res=9F07E6DA1230E033A2575AC0A9659C946591D6CF |title=Malcolm X Splits with Muhammad |access-date=August 1, 2008 |last=Handler |first=M. S. |date=March 9, 1964 |work=The New York Times |archive-date=July 20, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140720070810/http://query.nytimes.com/gst/abstract.html?res=9F07E6DA1230E033A2575AC0A9659C946591D6CF |url-status=live }}{{subscription required}}</ref><ref name="National Review Feb 2016">{{cite news |url=https://www.nationalreview.com/nrd/articles/431161/champ-and-mr-x |title=The Champ and Mr. X |work=National Review |date=February 29, 2016 |access-date=November 18, 2016 |archive-date=February 1, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180201205952/https://www.nationalreview.com/nrd/articles/431161/champ-and-mr-x |url-status=live }}</ref> Ali later said that turning his back on Malcolm was one of the mistakes he regretted most in his life.<ref name="Soul of a Butterfly">{{cite book |last1=Ali |first1=Muhammad |last2=Ali |first2=Hana Yasmeen |title=The Soul of a Butterfly: Reflections on Life's Journey |year=2004 |publisher=] |isbn=978-0-7432-6286-6 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=h6G-Cy5c0GgC |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031224605/https://books.google.com/books?id=h6G-Cy5c0GgC |url-status=live }}</ref>
	] clowns with Ali in the ] in 1983]]
			Aligning himself with the Nation of Islam, its leader ], and a narrative that labeled the white race as the perpetrator of genocide against African Americans made Ali a target of public condemnation. The Nation of Islam was widely viewed by whites and some African Americans as a black separatist "hate religion" with a propensity toward violence; Ali had few qualms about using his influential voice to speak Nation of Islam doctrine.<ref name="thegrio.com">{{cite web |last=Garcia |first=Courtney |url=http://thegrio.com/2013/09/06/trials-of-muhammad-ali-highlights-boxers-anti-war-opposition/ |title='Trials of Muhammad Ali' highlights boxer's anti-war opposition |publisher=theGrio |date=September 6, 2013 |access-date=November 5, 2013 |archive-date=October 29, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029193949/http://thegrio.com/2013/09/06/trials-of-muhammad-ali-highlights-boxers-anti-war-opposition/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In a press conference articulating his opposition to the Vietnam War, Ali stated, "My enemy is the white people, not Vietcong or Chinese or Japanese."<ref name="tribune">{{cite web |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2013/08/31/the-trials-of-a-chicago-director-making-muhammad-ali-doc/ |title=The trials of a Chicago director making Muhammad Ali doc |website=Chicago Tribune |first=Nina |last=Metz |date=August 31, 2013 |access-date=July 31, 2016 |archive-date=July 23, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160723020015/http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-08-31/entertainment/ct-ae-0901-fall-movie-profile-20130831_1_muhammad-ali-opposer-chicago-director |url-status=live }}</ref> In relation to integration, he said: "We who follow the teachings of Elijah Muhammad don't want to be forced to integrate. Integration is wrong. We don't want to live with the white man; that's all."<ref>{{cite news |last=Mogul |first=Priyanka |url=http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/muhammad-ali-why-boxing-legend-converted-islam-refused-serve-vietnam-war-1563671 |title=Muhammad Ali: Why the boxing legend converted to Islam and refused to serve in the Vietnam War |work=] |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=August 30, 2016 |archive-date=August 24, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160824082825/http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/muhammad-ali-why-boxing-legend-converted-islam-refused-serve-vietnam-war-1563671 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=The New Encyclopedia of Southern Culture: Volume 13: Gender |page=291 |editor1-last=Bercaw |editor1-first=Nancy |editor2-last=Ownby |editor2-first=Ted}}</ref>{{Better source needed|reason=ibtimes is considered unreliable in general; could use a source from around the time Ali made this statement|date=December 2023}}
	In 1984, Ali announced his support for ] of United States President ]. When asked to elaborate on his endorsement of Reagan, Ali told reporters, "He's keeping God in schools and that's enough."<ref name=NYT>{{cite web|work=]|title=CAMPAIGN NOTES; Muhammad Ali Switches His Support to Reagan|agency=]|date=October 3, 1984|url=http://www.nytimes.com/1984/10/03/us/campaign-notes-muhammad-ali-switches-his-support-to-reagan.html|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref> In 1985, he visited ] to request the release of Muslim prisoners at ], which Israel declined.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://archive.jta.org/1985/06/28/archive/muhammad-ali-steps-into-ring|title=Muhammad Ali Steps into Ring|publisher=]|date=June 28, 1985|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref>
			Writer ] once noted that, "the Nation became Ali's family and Elijah Muhammad became his father. But there is an irony to the fact that while the Nation branded white people as devils, Ali had more white colleagues than most African American people did at that time in America, and continued to have them throughout his career."<ref name="Hauser 2004" />
	Around 1987, the California Bicentennial Foundation for the U.S. Constitution selected Ali to personify the vitality of the U.S. Constitution and ]. Ali rode on a float at the following year's ], launching the U.S. Constitution's 200th birthday commemoration.{{citation needed|date=June 2016}} In 1988, during the ], Ali participated in a ] rally in support of ].<ref name="thenation"/> The same year, he visited ] to raise awareness about the plight of ] victims.<ref>{{cite news|last=Khaled|first=Ali|url=http://english.alarabiya.net/en/sports/2016/06/04/How-Muhammad-Ali-became-a-sporting-hero-to-the-Arab-world.html|title=How Muhammad Ali became a sporting hero to the Arab world|publisher=]|date=June 4, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref> In 1989, he participated in an ]n charity event with the ] in ], ], along with ] actor ].<ref name="timesofindia"/>
			====Conversion to Sunni Islam====
	In 1990, Ali traveled to ] prior to the ], and met with ] in an attempt to negotiate the release of American hostages. Ali successfully secured the release of the hostages, in exchange for promising Hussein that he'd bring America "an honest account" of Iraq. Despite rescuing hostages, he received criticism from President ], diplomat ], and '']''.<ref>{{cite news|last=Callahan|first=Maureen|url=http://nypost.com/2015/11/29/the-tale-of-muhammad-alis-goodwill-trip-to-iraq-that-freed-us-hostages/|title=How Muhammad Ali secured the release of 15 US hostages in Iraq|work=]|date=November 29, 2015|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.heroism.org/class/1970/ali.html |title=Muhammad Ali |publisher=Heroism.org |date=January 17, 1942 |accessdate=December 5, 2010}}</ref> Ali published an oral history, '']'' by Thomas Hauser, in 1991. In 1996, he had the honor of lighting the flame at the ] in Atlanta, Georgia.
			In Hauser's biography ''Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times'', Ali stated that he was not a Christian as he thought the idea of God having a son sounded wrong and did not make sense to him, stating, "God don't beget; man begets". However, he still believed that even good Christians or good Jews could receive God's blessing and enter heaven as he stated, "God created all people, no matter what their religion". He also stated, "If you're against someone because he's a Muslim that's wrong. If you're against someone because he's a Christian or a Jew, that's wrong".<ref>{{Cite book |last=Hauser |first=Thomas |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=6aaV0p8jaeUC&q=beget |title=Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times |year=1992 |publisher=Simon and Schuster |isbn=978-0-671-77971-9 |language=en |access-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031224606/https://books.google.com/books?id=6aaV0p8jaeUC&q=beget#v=snippet&q=beget&f=false |url-status=live }}</ref>
			] celebration in 1974]]
	Ali's bout with Parkinson's led to a gradual decline in his health, though he was still active into the early years of the millennium, promoting his own biopic, '']'', in 2001. Ali also contributed an on-camera segment to the '']'' benefit concert.{{citation needed|date=June 2016}}
			In a 2004 autobiography, Ali attributed his conversion to mainstream ] to ], who assumed leadership of the Nation of Islam upon the death of his father Elijah Muhammad and persuaded the Nation's followers to become adherents of Sunni Islam. He said some people did not like the change and stuck to Elijah's teachings, but he admired it, and so left Elijah's teachings and became a follower of Sunni Islam.<ref name = "Soul of a Butterfly 85">{{cite book |title=The Soul of a Butterfly |first1=Muhammad |last1=Ali |first2=Hana Yasmeen |last2=Ali |publisher=Simon & Schuster |page=85 |year=2013}}</ref>
	In 1998, Ali began working with actor ], who has ], to raise awareness and fund research for a cure. They made a joint appearance before Congress to push the case in 2002. In 2000, Ali worked with the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Disease to raise awareness and encourage donations for research.<ref>{{cite news|last=Bulman|first=May|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/muhammad-ali-dead-michael-j-fox-tribute-parkinsons-disease-common-fight-a7066416.html|title=Muhammad Ali dead: Michael J Fox pays tribute to fellow Parkinson's disease sufferer and their 'common fight'|work=]|date=June 5, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref>
			Ali had gone on the ] pilgrimage to ] in 1972, which inspired him in a similar manner to Malcolm X, meeting people of different colors from all over the world giving him a different outlook and greater ] awareness.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://www.emel.com/article?id=109&a_id=1722&c=32 |title=Muhammed Ali's Pilgrimage to Makkah (''sic'') |magazine=] |issue=17 |date=February 2006 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=September 14, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914052923/http://www.emel.com/article?id=109&a_id=1722&c=32 |url-status=live }}</ref> In 1977, he said that, after he retired, he would dedicate the rest of his life to getting "ready to meet God" by helping people, charitable causes, uniting people and helping to make peace.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://mashable.com/2016/06/04/muhammad-ali-retirement-video/ |title=Muhammad Ali had a thought-provoking response when asked about his retirement plans |website=] |last=Bryan |first=Chloe |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=September 10, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160910021714/http://mashable.com/2016/06/04/muhammad-ali-retirement-video/ |url-status=live }}</ref> He went on another Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca in 1988.<ref name="timesofindia">{{cite news |last=Rajeev |first=K R |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kozhikode/Muhammad-Alis-visit-was-Kozhikodes-knockout-moment/articleshow/52597630.cms |title=Muhammad Ali's visit was Kozhikode's knockout moment |work=] |date=June 5, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=June 10, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160610005305/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kozhikode/Muhammad-Alis-visit-was-Kozhikodes-knockout-moment/articleshow/52597630.cms |url-status=live }}</ref>
	]
	On November 17, 2002, Ali went to Afghanistan as the "]".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=5382&Cr=Muhammad&Cr1=Ali |archiveurl= https://web.archive.org/web/20021213180823/http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=5382&Cr=Muhammad&Cr1=Ali |archivedate=December 13, 2002 |title=UN Messenger of Peace Muhammad Ali arrives in Afghanistan |publisher=UN News Centre |date=December 13, 2002 |accessdate=January 29, 2012}}</ref> He was in Kabul for a three-day goodwill mission as a special guest of the UN.<ref>{{cite web|accessdate=May 20, 2008 |url=http://www.life.com/image/1647010?epmid=1 |title=Muhammad Ali visits Kabul |publisher=Getty Images |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100316125459/http://www.life.com/image/1647010?epmid=1 |archivedate=March 16, 2010}}</ref>
			After the ] in 2001, he stated that "Islam is a ]" and "does not promote ] or killing people", and that he was "angry that the world sees a certain group of Islam followers who caused this destruction, but they are not real Muslims. They are ] who call themselves Muslims." In December 2015, after the ], he stated that "True Muslims know that the ruthless violence of so-called Islamic ] goes against the very tenets of our religion", that "We as Muslims have to stand up to those who use Islam to advance their own personal agenda", and that "political leaders should use their position to bring understanding about the religion of Islam, and clarify that these misguided murderers have perverted people's views on what Islam really is."<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/06/muhammad-ali-face-real-islam-160606040559103.html |title=Muhammad Ali: The face of 'real Islam' |publisher=] |date=June 6, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=February 17, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200217133837/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/06/muhammad-ali-face-real-islam-160606040559103.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
	On September 1, 2009, Ali visited ], County Clare, Ireland, the home of his great-grandfather, Abe Grady, who emigrated to the U.S. in the 1860s, eventually settling in Kentucky.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.independent.ie/national-news/fightin-talk--as-ennis-awaits-mohammed-ali-1857049.html|title=Fightin' talk as Ennis awaits Muhammed Ali |date=August 12, 2009|work=Irish Independent|accessdate=August 26, 2009|first=Brian|last=McDonald}}</ref> A crowd of 10,000 turned out for a civic reception, where Ali was made the first Honorary ] of Ennis.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1210524/Muhammad-Ali-freeman-ancestral-home-Ireland.html |title=Welcome back to Ireland, Muhammad O'Ali: Boxing legend thrills 10,000 with visit to home of his Irish great-grandfather |date=September 2, 2009 |accessdate=November 1, 2013 |last=Wilkes |first=David |work=Daily Mail}}</ref>
			He also developed an interest in ], which he referenced in his autobiography, '']''.<ref name="Soul of a Butterfly" /><ref name="CNN Lane 2016">{{cite news |url=http://edition.cnn.com/2016/04/28/sport/muhammad-ali-five-things-boxing/ |title=Muhammad Ali: Five things you never knew about the boxing legend |work=CNN |date=April 28, 2016 |access-date=November 18, 2016 |archive-date=November 19, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161119182246/http://edition.cnn.com/2016/04/28/sport/muhammad-ali-five-things-boxing/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Telegraph March 2016">{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/boxing/2016/03/02/family-faith-and-magic-tricks-my-40-year-friendship-with-muhamma/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220110/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/boxing/2016/03/02/family-faith-and-magic-tricks-my-40-year-friendship-with-muhamma/ |archive-date=January 10, 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |title=Family, faith and magic tricks: My 40-year friendship with Muhammad Ali |work=The Telegraph |date=March 4, 2016 |access-date=December 13, 2016}}{{cbignore}}</ref> According to Ali's daughter, Hana Yasmeen Ali, who co-authored ''The Soul of a Butterfly'' with him, Ali was attracted to Sufism after reading the books of ], which contain Sufi teachings.<ref name="On Being June 2016">{{cite news |url=http://www.onbeing.org/blog/omid-safi-muhammad-ali-unapologetically-black-unapologetically-muslim/8735 |title=Muhammad Ali: Unapologetically Black, Unapologetically Muslim |work=] |date=June 9, 2016 |access-date=December 13, 2016 |archive-date=December 20, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220165249/http://www.onbeing.org/blog/omid-safi-muhammad-ali-unapologetically-black-unapologetically-muslim/8735 }}</ref><ref name="Beliefnet Hana Yasmeen Ali interview">{{cite news |url=http://www.beliefnet.com/faiths/islam/2005/02/muhammad-alis-new-spiritual-quest.aspx? |title=Muhammad Ali's New Spiritual Quest |work=] |access-date=December 13, 2016 |archive-date=December 20, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220230116/http://www.beliefnet.com/faiths/islam/2005/02/muhammad-alis-new-spiritual-quest.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref>
	On July 27, 2012, Ali was a titular bearer of the Olympic Flag during the ] of the ] in London. He was helped to his feet by his wife Lonnie to stand before the flag due to his Parkinson's rendering him unable to carry it into the stadium.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://edition.cnn.com/2012/07/27/sport/olympics-muhammad-ali/index.html |title=Muhammad Ali returns to the Olympic stage, once again, in London |last=Wilson |first=Stan |date=July 28, 2012 |publisher=CNN |accessdate=July 29, 2012}}</ref> In 2014, Ali ] in support of ] and the ] movement.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://qz.com/701272/remembering-muhammad-alis-legacy-as-a-radical-and-peaceful-muslim/|title=Remembering Muhammad Ali's legacy as a radical, and peaceful, Muslim|work=]|date=June 7, 2016}}</ref>
			Muhammad Ali received guidance from Islamic scholars such as ] Al Marhum Al Sheikh ], ], Imam ], ], and Timothy J. Gianotti, who planned his funeral.<ref name="Timothy Gianotti - The Imam whose on Muhammad Ali's last days and funeral">{{cite news |url=https://uwaterloo.ca/studies-in-islam/people-profiles/timothy-gianotti-0 |title=Timothy Gianotti – The Imam whose on Muhammad Ali's last days and funeral |work=] |date=June 9, 2016 |access-date=December 13, 2016 |archive-date=September 27, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170927115036/https://uwaterloo.ca/studies-in-islam/people-profiles/timothy-gianotti-0 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Prof. Gianotti plans Muhammad Ali's funeral and memorial service">{{cite news |url=https://uwaterloo.ca/studies-in-islam/news/prof-gianotti-plans-muhammad-alis-funeral-and-memorial |title=Prof. Gianotti plans Muhammad Ali's funeral and memorial service |work=] |date=June 9, 2016 |access-date=December 13, 2016 |archive-date=September 27, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170927114950/https://uwaterloo.ca/studies-in-islam/news/prof-gianotti-plans-muhammad-alis-funeral-and-memorial |url-status=live }}</ref>
	===Illness and death===
	{{wikinews|Boxing great Muhammed Ali dies aged 74}}
	In February 2013, Ali's brother ] said Muhammad could no longer speak and could be dead within days.<ref>{{cite news|last=Chasmar|first=Jessica|title=Brother: Muhammad Ali 'could be dead in days'|url=http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2013/feb/3/brother-muhammad-ali-could-be-dead-days/|work=]|date=February 3, 2013|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref> Ali's daughter May May Ali responded to the rumors, stating that she had talked to him on the phone the morning of February 3 and he was fine.<ref>{{cite news|title=Muhammad Ali's daughter: Father watching Super Bowl, not near death|url=http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-400_162-57567369/muhammad-alis-daughter-father-watching-super-bowl-not-near-death/|publisher=]|date=February 5, 2013|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref>
			===Health===
	On December 20, 2014, Ali was hospitalized for a mild case of ].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.nujournal.com/page/content.detail/id/761659/Muhammad-Ali-hospitalized-with-pneumonia.html?isap=1&nav=5036|title=Muhammad Ali hospitalized with pneumonia|work=The Journal |accessdate=December 21, 2014 |agency=Associated Press |archiveurl= https://web.archive.org/web/20141221093217/http://www.nujournal.com/page/content.detail/id/761659/Muhammad-Ali-hospitalized-with-pneumonia.html?isap=1&nav=5036 |archivedate=December 21, 2014}}</ref> Ali was once again hospitalized on January 15, 2015, for a ] after being found unresponsive at a guest house in Scottsdale, Arizona.<ref>{{cite news |first=Christopher |last=Bucktin |url=http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/boxing/boxing-legend-muhammad-ali-intensive-4987518|title=Boxing legend Muhammad Ali in hospital after being found 'unresponsive' at his home|newspaper=The Mirror |accessdate=January 16, 2015|date=January 16, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2912460/Muhammad-Ali-hospital-unresponsive-bed-just-days-boxing-great-s-73rd-birthday.html|title=Muhammad Ali back in hospital after he was found 'unresponsive in his bed' – just days after the boxing great's 73rd birthday|newspaper=Daily Mail |accessdate=January 16, 2015|date=January 15, 2015}}</ref> He was released the next day.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/sports/ali-out-of-hospital-in-time-for-73rd-birthday/ar-AA8g057?ocid=ansspafp11 |title=Ali out of hospital in time for 73rd birthday |publisher=MSN |accessdate=January 17, 2015 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150120224903/http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/sports/ali-out-of-hospital-in-time-for-73rd-birthday/ar-AA8g057?ocid=ansspafp11 |archivedate=January 20, 2015 }}</ref>
			During his amateur career, Ali refrained from smoking, drugs, and drinking alcohol and soda pop, and adopted an idiosyncratic diet.<ref>{{cite book|last=Remnick|first=David|title=King of the World: Muhammad Ali and the Rise of an American Hero|date=2014|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vkvoAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA93|page=93|isbn=9780804173629|publisher=Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group|access-date=May 9, 2024|archive-date=May 23, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240523004012/https://books.google.com/books?id=vkvoAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA93#v=onepage&q&f=false|url-status=live}}</ref> Upon his acceptance of the dietary restrictions of Islam, the Nation of Islam recruited cooks to prepare his meals.<ref>{{cite book|last=Remnick|first=David|title=King of the World: Muhammad Ali and the Rise of an American Hero|date=2014|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vkvoAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA135|page=135|isbn=9780804173629|publisher=Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group|access-date=May 10, 2024|archive-date=May 23, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240523004014/https://books.google.com/books?id=vkvoAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA135#v=onepage&q&f=false|url-status=live}}</ref>
			==Entertainment career==
	Ali was hospitalized in Scottsdale on June 2, 2016, with a respiratory illness. Though his condition was initially described as "fair", it worsened and he died the following day, at the age of 74, from ].<ref>{{cite news|last1=Martin|first1=Jill|title=Muhammad Ali hospitalized with respiratory issue|url=http://edition.cnn.com/2016/06/02/us/muhammad-ali-hospitalized-with-respiratory-issue/|accessdate=June 3, 2016|publisher=CNN|date=June 2, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://abcnews.go.com/US/muhammad-ali-dies-greatest-boxer-dead-74/story?id=18391211 |title=Muhammad Ali Dies: 'The Greatest' Boxer Dead at 74 |publisher=] |date=June 4, 2016 |accessdate=June 6, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/04/sports/muhammad-ali-dies.html|title=Muhammad Ali Dies at 74: Titan of Boxing and the 20th Century|last=Lipsyte|first=Robert|date=June 3, 2016|work=The New York Times|access-date=June 3, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Schuppe |first=Jon |url=http://www.nbcnews.com/news/sports/muhammad-alis-hometown-louisville-honors-late-boxer-our-inspiration-n585816 |title=Muhammad Ali Died of Septic Shock, Will Be Honored at Public Funeral: Spokesman |publisher=] |date=June 4, 2016 |accessdate=June 6, 2016}}</ref> Following Ali's death, he was the number one trending topic on ] for over 12 hours and on ] was trending topic number one for several days. ] played four hours of non-stop commercial-free coverage of Ali. ] played their documentary ''Muhammad Ali: Made In Miami''. News networks such as ], ], ], and ] also covered him extensively.
			{{Further|Muhammad Ali in media and popular culture}}
			] in 1980]]
	===Tributes===		===Acting===
			Ali had a cameo role in the 1962 film version of '']'', and during his exile from boxing, he starred in the short-lived 1969 Broadway musical, ''Buck White''.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Langer |first1=Adam |title=Muhammad Ali in a Broadway Musical? It Happened |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2019/11/28/theater/muhammad-ali-broadway-buck-white.html |access-date=December 6, 2020 |work=] |date=November 28, 2019 |archive-date=July 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725024740/https://www.nytimes.com/2019/11/28/theater/muhammad-ali-broadway-buck-white.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/buck-white-3305 |title=''Buck White'' |publisher=] |access-date=May 9, 2022 |archive-date=May 9, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220509051557/https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/buck-white-3305 |url-status=live }}</ref> He also appeared in the documentary film '']'' (1972) riding both a horse and a bull.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cartwright |first=Keith Ryan |date=February 3, 2020 |title=When black cowboys paraded through Harlem with Muhammad Ali |url=https://andscape.com/features/black-rodeo-cowboys-paraded-through-harlem-with-muhammad-ali/ |access-date=June 2, 2024 |website=Andscape |language=en-US |archive-date=February 22, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240222082345/https://andscape.com/features/black-rodeo-cowboys-paraded-through-harlem-with-muhammad-ali/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
	Ali was mourned globally, and a family spokesman said the family "certainly believes that Muhammad was a citizen of the world … and they know that the world grieves with him."<ref name="Columbian">{{cite news|title=Ali: 'Citizen' of the world'|url=http://www.columbian.com/news/2016/jun/04/ali-citizen-of-the-world/|publisher=Columbian|date=June 6, 2016}}</ref> Politicians such as ], ], ], ], ] and more paid tribute to Ali. Ali also received numerous tributes from the world of sports including ], ], ], ], the ], ], ] and more. Louisville Mayor ] stated, "Muhammad Ali belongs to the world. But he only has one hometown."<ref name="Columbian"/>
			His autobiography '']'', written with ], was published in 1975.<ref name=cp>{{cite book |last1=Ali |first1=Muhammad |last2=Durham |first2=Richard |title=The Greatest: My Own Story |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=EkfhAAAAMAAJ |year=1975 |publisher=Random House |location=New York |isbn=978-0-394-46268-4 |oclc=1622063 |access-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031224607/https://books.google.com/books?id=EkfhAAAAMAAJ |url-status=live }}</ref> In 1977 the book was adapted into a film called '']'', in which Ali played himself and ] played ].
	===Memorial===
	{{external media | width = 210px | align = right | headerimage= | video1 = , ]<ref name="cspan memorial">{{cite web | title =Muhammad Ali Memorial Service | work = | publisher =] | date = June 10, 2016 | url =https://www.c-span.org/video/?410916-1/memorial-service-muhammad-ali-19422016| accessdate =September 9, 2016 }}</ref> }}
	Ali's funeral was preplanned by himself and others beginning years prior to his actual death.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://news.nationalpost.com/news/world/will-smith-lennox-lewis-among-pallbearers-for-muhammad-ali-who-scripted-his-funeral-in-his-final-days |title=Will Smith, Lennox Lewis among pallbearers for Muhammad Ali, who scripted his own funeral in final days|first1=Bruce |last1=Schreiner |first2=Claire |last2=Galofaro|work=nationalpost.com |date= June 7, 2016|accessdate=July 31, 2016}}</ref> The services began in Louisville on June 9, 2016, with an Islamic ] prayer service at ] on the grounds of the ]. A funeral procession went through the streets of Louisville on June 10, 2016, ending at ], where a private interment ceremony occurred. Ali's grave is marked with a simple granite marker that bears only his name. A public memorial service for Ali at downtown Louisville's ] was held in the afternoon of June 10.<ref>{{cite news|title=Muhammad Ali To Be Buried In Louisville Friday|url=http://wfpl.org/muhammad-ali-buried-louisville-friday/|publisher=]|date=June 4, 2016|accessdate=June 5, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Muhammad Ali's funeral to be watched worldwide by billions|url=http://www.india.com/sports/muhammad-alis-funeral-to-be-watched-worldwide-by-billions-2-1238356/|publisher=India.com|date=June 5, 2016|accessdate=June 5, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Muhammad Ali Islamic Funeral Prayer Service Jenazah scheduled at Freedom Hall|url=http://www.whas11.com/news/local/muhammad-ali-islamic-funeral-prayer-service-jenazah-scheduled-at-freedom-hall/234230429/|publisher=]|date=June 6, 2016|accessdate=June 9, 2016}}</ref> The pallbearers included ], ] and ], with honorary pallbearers including ], ] and ].<ref>{{cite web |url= http://ftw.usatoday.com/2016/06/will-smith-mike-tyson-pallbearers-muhammad-ali-funeral |title=Will Smith, Mike Tyson among those serving as pallbearers at Muhammad Ali's funeral &#124; For The Win |first= Laken|last=Litman|work=ftw.usatoday.com |date= June 10, 2016|accessdate=July 31, 2016}}</ref>
			The film '']'', made in 1978, features Ali in a rare acting role as Gideon Jackson, a former slave and Union (American Civil War) soldier in 1870s Virginia, who gets elected to the U.S. Senate and battles alongside former slaves and white sharecroppers to keep the land they have tended all their lives.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Freedom Road|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0079173/|website=Imdb|access-date=November 7, 2021|archive-date=November 7, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107204929/https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0079173/|url-status=live}}</ref>
	==Boxing style==
	] ].]]
	Ali had a highly unorthodox boxing style for a heavyweight, epitomized by his catchphrase "float like a butterfly, sting like a bee". Never an overpowering puncher, Ali relied early in his career on his superior hand speed, superb reflexes and constant movement, dancing and circling opponents for most of the fight, holding his hands low and lashing out with a quick, cutting left jab that he threw from unpredictable angles. His footwork was so strong that it was extremely difficult for opponents to cut down the ring and corner Ali against the ropes. He was also able to quickly dodge punches with his head movement and footwork.{{citation needed|date=June 2016}}
			===Spoken word poetry===
	One of Ali's greatest tricks was to make opponents overcommit by pulling straight backward from punches. Disciplined, world-class boxers chased Ali and threw themselves off balance attempting to hit him because he seemed to be an open target, only missing and leaving themselves exposed to Ali's counter punches, usually a chopping right.<ref>{{cite web|last=Slack |first=Jack |url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2013/1/24/3908574/muhammad-ali-boxing-technique-jack-slack |title=Pulling Back the Curtain on Muhammad Ali |publisher=Bloody Elbow |date=January 24, 2013 |accessdate=July 2, 2013}}</ref> Slow motion replays show that this was precisely the way Sonny Liston was hit and apparently knocked out by Ali in their second fight.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prxnGjKjxoo&feature=youtube_gdata_player |title=Muhammad Ali knockout Sonny Liston in Slow Motion HD |publisher=YouTube |date=October 30, 1974 |accessdate=September 3, 2013}}</ref> Ali often flaunted his movement by dancing the "Ali Shuffle", a sort of center-ring jig.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.quotedb.com/quotes/3980 |title=Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. by Muhammad Ali |publisher=Quotedb.com |accessdate=December 5, 2010}}</ref> Ali's early style was so unusual that he was initially discounted because he reminded boxing writers of a lightweight, and it was assumed he would be vulnerable to big hitters like Sonny Liston.{{citation needed|date=June 2016}}
			{{Poem quote
			|text=Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee.
			His hands can't hit what his eyes can't see.
			Now you see me, now you don't.
			George thinks he will, but I know he won't.
			|sign=Muhammad Ali<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/boxing/2016/06/03/muhammad-ali-best-quotes-boxing/85370850/ |title=30 of Muhammad Ali's best quotes |website=USA Today |language=en |access-date=April 19, 2019 |archive-date=April 19, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190419002853/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/boxing/2016/06/03/muhammad-ali-best-quotes-boxing/85370850/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
			}}
			In 1963, Ali released an album of ] music on Columbia Records titled, '']'', and in 1964, he recorded a ] of the ] song "]".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rTlN6pU01K0 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131022125127/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rTlN6pU01K0| archive-date=October 22, 2013 |title=Song ''Stand By Me'', recorded in 1964 by Muhammad Ali, then known as Cassius Clay |publisher=YouTube |date=December 13, 2008 |access-date=February 20, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.secondhandsongs.com/performance/80810 |title=Different versions of 'Stand By Me' |publisher=Secondhandsongs.com |access-date=February 20, 2013 |archive-date=November 4, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121104015634/http://www.secondhandsongs.com/performance/80810 |url-status=live }}</ref> ''I Am the Greatest'' sold 500,000 copies, and has been identified as an early example of ] and a precursor to ].<ref name="tinsley">{{cite news |last=Tinsley |first=Justin |title=The Grammy-nominated Cassius Clay |url=https://andscape.com/features/muhammad-ali-i-am-the-greatest-album/ |work=] |date=June 8, 2016 |access-date=July 16, 2022 |archive-date=August 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220810041030/https://andscape.com/features/muhammad-ali-i-am-the-greatest-album/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="rollingstone">{{cite magazine |title=Muhammad Ali: Famed Pugilist Was Also Hip-Hop Pioneer |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/muhammad-ali-worlds-greatest-boxer-was-also-hip-hop-pioneer-20160604 |magazine=] |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=August 22, 2017 |archive-date=May 15, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180515184644/https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/muhammad-ali-worlds-greatest-boxer-was-also-hip-hop-pioneer-20160604 }}</ref><ref name="nytimes2" /><ref name="rollingstone1" /><ref name="rollingstone2" /> It reached number 61 on the album chart and was nominated for the ] at the ] in 1964.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Grammy Award Nominees 1964 – Grammy Award Winners 1964 |work=Awards & Shows |url=http://www.awardsandshows.com/features/grammy-awards-1964-216.html |access-date=January 24, 2023 |archive-date=December 13, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111213121946/http://www.awardsandshows.com/features/grammy-awards-1964-216.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="rollingstone2" /> He later received a second Grammy nomination, for "Best Recording for Children", with his 1976 spoken word novelty record, '']''.<ref name="rollingstone2" />
	Using a synchronizer, Jimmy Jacobs, who co-managed Mike Tyson, measured young Ali's punching speed versus Sugar Ray Robinson, a welter/middleweight, often considered the best pound-for-pound fighter in history. Ali was 25% faster than Robinson, even though Ali was 45–50{{nbsp}}pounds heavier.<ref name="Gallenger">Paul Gallenger, ''Sonny Liston''.</ref> Ali's punches produced approximately 1,000{{nbsp}}pounds of force.<ref>{{cite book | first=Phillip |last=Starr| title =Martial Mechanics: Maximum Results with Minimum Effort in the Practice of Martial Arts| publisher =Blue Snake Books| year =2008| page =13| isbn =1583942114}}</ref> "No matter what his opponents heard about him, they didn't realize how fast he was until they got in the ring with him", Jacobs said.<ref>{{cite book | first=Thomas |last=Hauser| title =Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times (Enhanced Edition)| publisher =Open Road Media| year =2012| page =<!-- not numbered -->| isbn =1453250638}}</ref> The effect of Ali's punches was cumulative.<!-- "Ali would rub you out", said Floyd Patterson. "He would hit you 14,000 times and he wouldn't knock you out, he rubbed you out."{{Cite quote| date=September 2014}}--> ], who fought Ali early in Ali's career and was knocked out in the third round, said: "When he first hit me I said to myself, 'I can take two of these to get one in myself.' But in a little while I found myself getting dizzier and dizzier every time he hit me. He throws punches so easily that you don't realize how much they hurt you until it's too late."<ref name=Mee/>
			===Professional wrestling===
	Commenting on fighting the young Ali, George Chuvalo said: "He was just so damn fast. When he was young, he moved his legs and hands at the same time. He threw his punches when he was in motion. He'd be out of punching range, and as he moved into range he'd already begun to throw the punch. So if you waited until he got into range to punch back, he beat you every time."<ref name="Hauser 2004"/>
			Ali was involved with ] at different times in his career.
			On June 1, 1976, as Ali was preparing for his bout with Inoki, he attended a match featuring ]. After the match was over, Ali removed his shirt and jacket and confronted ] ] in the ring after his match at a ] show in ]. After dodging a few punches, Monsoon put Ali in an ] and dumped him to the mat. Ali stumbled to the corner, where his associate ] convinced him to walk away.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://boxinghalloffame.com/muhammad-ali-boxing-a-monsoon/ |title=Muhammad Ali Boxing a Monsoon – Boxing Hall of Fame |date=December 29, 2012 |publisher=boxinghalloffame.com |access-date=June 9, 2016 |archive-date=September 16, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150916221053/http://boxinghalloffame.com/muhammad-ali-boxing-a-monsoon/ }}</ref>
	Floyd Patterson said, "It's very hard to hit a moving target, and (Ali) moved all the time, with such grace, three minutes of every round for fifteen rounds. He never stopped. It was extraordinary."<ref name="Hauser 2004"/>
			] (middle) at ], with ] (left) as timekeeper]]
	Darrell Foster, who trained Will Smith for the movie ''Ali'', said: "Ali's signature punches were the left jab and the overhand right. But there were at least six different ways Ali used to jab. One was a jab that Ali called the 'snake lick', like cobra striking that comes from the floor almost, really low down. Then there was Ali's rapid-fire jab—three to five jabs in succession rapidly fired at his opponents' eyes to create a blur in his face so he wouldn't be able to see the right hand coming behind it."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://observer.guardian.co.uk/osm/story/0,,641739,00.html |title=How to...fight like Muhammad Ali |newspaper=The Observer |date=February 9, 2011 |accessdate=July 2, 2013 }}</ref>
			On March 31, 1985, Ali was the special guest referee for the main event of the ] event.<ref>{{cite magazine |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> | title=Historical Cards: WrestleMania I (03-31-1985) | magazine=PWI 2007 Wrestling Almanac & Book of facts | location= Blue Bell, Pennsylvania | publisher= ] | date=2007 | editor-first=Harry | editor-last=Burkett | page=84 | isbn=978-25274-00389}}</ref>
			In 1995, Ali led a group of Japanese and American professional wrestlers, including his 1976 opponent Antonio Inoki and ], on a sports diplomacy mission to ]. Ali was guest of honor at the record-breaking ], a wrestling event with the largest attendance of all time.<ref name="NK"/>
	In the opinion of many, Ali became a different fighter after the 3½-year layoff. Ferdie Pacheco, Ali's corner physician, noted that he had lost his ability to move and dance as before.<ref name="Hauser 2004"/> This forced Ali to become more stationary and exchange punches more frequently, exposing him to more punishment while indirectly revealing his tremendous ability to take a punch. This physical change led in part to the "rope-a-dope" strategy, where Ali would lie back on the ropes, cover up to protect himself and conserve energy, and tempt opponents to punch themselves out. Ali often taunted opponents in the process and lashed back with sudden, unexpected combinations. The strategy was dramatically successful in the George Foreman fight, but less so in the first Joe Frazier bout when it was introduced.{{citation needed|date=June 2016}}
			Ali was inducted into the ] by ] at the ].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/article/muhammad-ali-to-be-inducted-into-wwe-hall-of-fame-class-of-2024|title=Muhammed Ali to be inducted into WWE Hall of fame class of 2024|work=wwe.com|access-date=March 11, 2024|archive-date=March 11, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240311144539/https://www.wwe.com/article/muhammad-ali-to-be-inducted-into-wwe-hall-of-fame-class-of-2024|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Colin |first1=Tessier |title=The Undertaker Inducts Muhammad Ali Into WWE Hall Of Fame Class Of 2024 |url=https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/undertaker-inducts-muhammad-ali-wwe-041142029.html |work=] |publisher=] |access-date=June 5, 2024 |date=April 6, 2024 |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406222952/https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/undertaker-inducts-muhammad-ali-wwe-041142029.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
	Of his later career, Arthur Mercante said: "Ali knew all the tricks. He was the best fighter I ever saw in terms of clinching. Not only did he use it to rest, but he was big and strong and knew how to lean on opponents and push and shove and pull to tire them out. Ali was so smart. Most guys are just in there fighting, but Ali had a sense of everything that was happening, almost as though he was sitting at ringside analyzing the fight while he fought it."<ref name="Hauser 2004"/>
	==="Talking trash"===		===Television appearances===
			{{Further|Boxing career of Muhammad Ali#Television viewership}}
	Ali regularly taunted and baited his opponents—including Liston, Frazier, and Foreman—before the fight and often during the bout itself. He said Frazier was "too dumb to be champion", that he would whip Liston "like his Daddy did", that Terrell was an "]" for refusing to call Ali by his name and continuing to call him Cassius Clay, and that Patterson was a "rabbit". In speaking of how Ali stoked Liston's anger and overconfidence before their first fight, one writer commented that "the most brilliant fight strategy in boxing history was devised by a teenager who had graduated 376 in a class of 391."<ref name="Gallenger"/>
			Muhammad Ali's fights were some of the world's ], setting television viewership records. His most-watched fights drew an estimated 1{{ndash}}2&nbsp;billion viewers worldwide between 1974 and 1980, and were the world's most-watched live television broadcasts at the time.<ref name="briefly"/> Outside of fights, he made many other television appearances. The following table lists known viewership figures of his non-fight television appearances. For television viewership figures of his fights, see '']''.
	Ali typically portrayed himself as the "people's champion" and his opponent as a tool of the (white) establishment (despite the fact that his entourage often had more white faces than his opponents'). During the early part of his career, he built a reputation for predicting rounds in which he would finish opponents, often vowing to crawl across the ring or to leave the country if he lost the bout.<ref name="greatath"/> Ali adopted the latter practice from "Gorgeous" ], a professional wrestling champion who drew thousands of fans to his matches as "the man you love to hate".<ref name="greatath"/> When Ali was 19, Wagner, who was in town to wrestle ] and had crossed paths with Clay,<ref name=georgali /> told the boxer before a bout with ] in Las Vegas,<ref name=georgali /> "A lot of people will pay to see someone shut your mouth. So keep on bragging, keep on sassing and always be outrageous."<ref name="SI"/>
			{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center; font-size:95%"
	ESPN columnist Ralph Wiley called Ali "The King of Trash Talk".<ref name ="ESPN Wiley">{{cite web|last=Wiley |first=Ralph |url=http://espn.go.com/page2/s/wiley/010125.html |title=Jive trash talkin' |publisher=ESPN |date=September 13, 2001 |accessdate=September 3, 2013}}</ref> In 2013, ''The Guardian'' said Ali exemplified boxing's "golden age of ]".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2011/jun/28/boxing-trash-talk-david-haye |title=Boxing trash talk that stings like a bee |work=The Guardian |date=September 28, 2007 |accessdate=September 3, 2013}}</ref> ] called Clay's description of Sonny Liston smelling like a bear and his vow to donate him to a zoo after he beat him the greatest trash talk line in sports history.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1238737-the-50-best-trash-talk-lines-in-sports-history/page/51 |title=The 50 Best Trash Talk Lines in Sports History |publisher=Bleacher Report |accessdate=September 3, 2013}}</ref>
			|+
			! Date !! Broadcast !! Region(s) !! Viewers !! Source
			|-
			| {{dts|1971|October|17|format=mdy}}
			| '']'' (series 1, episode 14)
			| United Kingdom
			| 12,000,000
			| {{citation needed|date=October 2020}}
			|-
			| {{dts|1974|January|25|format=mdy}}
			| '']'' (series 3, episode 18)
			| United Kingdom
			| 12,000,000
			| {{citation needed|date=October 2020}}
			|-
			| {{dts|1974|December|7|format=mdy}}
			| '']''
			| United Kingdom
			| 12,000,000
			| {{citation needed|date=October 2020}}
			|-
			| {{dts|1977|March|28|format=mdy}}
			| ]
			| United States
			| 39,719,000
			| <ref>{{cite web |title=Academy Awards Show Ratings |url=https://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/reference/academy-awards-show-ratings/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161008211435/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/reference/academy-awards-show-ratings/ |archive-date=October 8, 2016 |website=] |date=February 18, 2009}}</ref>
			|-
			| {{dts|1978|December|25|format=mdy}}
			| '']'' ("Muhammad Ali")
			| United States
			| 60,000,000
			| <ref>{{cite book |last=Hauser |first=Thomas |title=Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times |date=2012 |publisher=] |isbn=978-1-907554-90-2 |page=431 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7K6-AgAAQBAJ&pg=PT431 |access-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031224607/https://books.google.com/books?id=7K6-AgAAQBAJ&pg=PT431#v=onepage&q&f=false |url-status=live }}</ref>
			|-
			| {{dts|1979|October|24|format=mdy}}
			| '']'' ("]")
			| United States
			| 41,000,000
			| <ref>{{cite web |title=Diff'rent Strokes – The Complete Second Season DVD Review |url=http://www.sitcomsonline.com/diffrentstrokesseason2dvdreview.html |website=Sitcoms Online |access-date=September 1, 2018 |archive-date=February 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210224192558/https://www.sitcomsonline.com/diffrentstrokesseason2dvdreview.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
			|-
			| {{dts|1981|January|17|format=mdy}}
			| '']'' (series 10, episode 32)
			| United Kingdom
			| 12,000,000
			| {{citation needed|date=October 2020}}
			|-
			| rowspan="2" | {{dts|1996|July|19|format=mdy}}
			| rowspan="2" | ]
			| Worldwide
			| 3,500,000,000
			| <ref name="Hajeski">{{cite book |last=Hajeski |first=Nancy J. |title=Ali: The Official Portrait of "The Greatest" of All Time |date=2013 |publisher=Simon and Schuster |isbn=978-1-60710-983-9 |page=293 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=6ClZDwAAQBAJ&pg=PA293 |access-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031224610/https://books.google.com/books?id=6ClZDwAAQBAJ&pg=PA293#v=onepage&q&f=false |url-status=live }}</ref>
			|-
			| United States
			| 209,000,000
			| <ref>{{cite news |last1=Toff |first1=Benjamin |title=Olympics Ratings Set Record |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/26/arts/26arts-OLYMPICSRATI_BRF.html |work=] |date=August 25, 2008 |access-date=September 4, 2018 |archive-date=September 4, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180904120949/https://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/26/arts/26arts-OLYMPICSRATI_BRF.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
			|-
			| {{dts|2001|September|21|format=mdy}}
			| '']''
			| United States
			| 60,000,000
			| <ref>{{cite web |title='Heroes' Telethon Raises $150 Million |url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/78313/heroes-telethon-raises-150-million/ |website=billboard.com |date=September 25, 2001 |access-date=March 29, 2021 |archive-date=January 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210127224333/https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/78313/heroes-telethon-raises-150-million |url-status=live }}</ref>
			|-
			| {{dts|2007|January|4|format=mdy}}
			| '']''
			| United Kingdom
			| 3,630,000
			| <ref>{{cite web |title=Weekly top 30 programmes |url=https://www.barb.co.uk/viewing-data/weekly-top-30/ |publisher=] |date=January 7, 2007 |access-date=September 1, 2018 |archive-date=February 11, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211081646/http://www.barb.co.uk/whats-new/weekly-top-30 |url-status=live }}</ref>
			|-
			| {{dts|2016|June|9|format=mdy}}
			| ]
			| Worldwide
			| 1,000,000,000
			| <ref name="alicenter">{{cite web |title=Annual Report 2016 |url=https://alicenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/2016-Annual-Report-FINAL_spreads.pdf |publisher=] |date=January 2017 |access-date=August 19, 2018 |archive-date=December 3, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201203175252/https://alicenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/2016-Annual-Report-FINAL_spreads.pdf }}</ref>
			|-
			!
			! Total viewership
			! Worldwide
			! 4,692,349,000
			!
			|}
			=== Art ===
	==Ali and his contemporaries==
			Ali was also an amateur artist and made dozens of drawings and paintings in the 1970s. In 1977, Rodney Hilton Brown, who owned an art gallery in NYC, asked Ali if he was interested in painting. Ali took him up on the offer and produced several paintings for him to sell. Brown is the author of "Muhammad Ali: The Untold Story: Painter, Poet and Prophet".<ref>{{Cite news|title=Art by Muhammad Ali, boxing icon, sells for close to $1 million in New York auction|language=en-US|newspaper=Washington Post|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/10/06/muhammad-ali-art-auction-sells-boxing/|access-date=October 7, 2021|issn=0190-8286|archive-date=November 28, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211128214923/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/10/06/muhammad-ali-art-auction-sells-boxing/|url-status=live}}</ref> In October 2021, 26 of his drawings and arts were placed on auction and sold for close to US$1 Million.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Villa|first=Angelica|date=October 6, 2021|title=Muhammad Ali's Little-Known Art Becomes a Hit at Auction|url=https://www.artnews.com/art-news/market/muhammad-ali-bonhams-sale-1234605878/|access-date=October 7, 2021|website=ARTnews.com|language=en-US|archive-date=October 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211006222506/https://www.artnews.com/art-news/market/muhammad-ali-bonhams-sale-1234605878/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Calfas|first=Jennifer|date=October 6, 2021|title=Boxing Legend Muhammad Ali's Art Sells for Nearly $1 Million in Auction|language=en-US|work=]|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/boxing-legend-muhammad-alis-art-sells-for-nearly-1-million-in-auction-11633532646|access-date=October 7, 2021|issn=0099-9660|archive-date=October 7, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211007031641/https://www.wsj.com/articles/boxing-legend-muhammad-alis-art-sells-for-nearly-1-million-in-auction-11633532646|url-status=live}}</ref>
	===Ali and Frazier===		==Later life==
			By the end of his boxing career Ali had absorbed an estimated 200,000 hits.<ref name="veconomist">{{cite news |title=A new biography of Muhammad Ali |url=https://www.economist.com/news/books-and-arts/21730621-downfall-tragic-rebellious-hero-new-biography-muhammad-ali |newspaper=] |date=October 26, 2017 |access-date=October 27, 2017 |archive-date=October 26, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171026191204/https://www.economist.com/news/books-and-arts/21730621-downfall-tragic-rebellious-hero-new-biography-muhammad-ali |url-status=live }}</ref>
			In 1984, Ali was diagnosed with ], which sometimes results from head trauma from violent physical activities such as boxing.<ref name="nytimes">{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1984/09/20/sports/change-in-drug-helps-ali-improve.html?sec=health |title=Change In Drug Helps Ali Improve |last=Thomas |first=Robert McG. Jr. |work=The New York Times |pages=D–29 |access-date=March 9, 2009 |date=September 20, 1984 |archive-date=June 16, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130616101422/http://www.nytimes.com/1984/09/20/sports/change-in-drug-helps-ali-improve.html?sec=health |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1984/09/22/sports/sports-people-ali-leaves-hospital-vowing-take-better-care-himself-get-more-sleep.html |title=Ali Leaves Hospital Vowing to take better care of himself and get more sleep |work=The New York Times |access-date=March 9, 2009 |date=September 22, 1984 |archive-date=June 16, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130616120440/http://www.nytimes.com/1984/09/22/sports/sports-people-ali-leaves-hospital-vowing-take-better-care-himself-get-more-sleep.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Friedman |first1=J. H. |title=Progressive parkinsonism in boxers |journal=Southern Medical Journal |volume=82 |issue=5 |pages=543–546 |year=1989 |pmid=2655100 |doi=10.1097/00007611-198905000-00002 | issn = 0038-4348}}</ref> Ali still remained active during this time, later participating as a guest referee at ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/wm1/celebrities/ |title=WrestleMania I: Celebrities |publisher=Wwe.com |date=March 31, 1985 |access-date=January 29, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110605013012/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/wm1/celebrities/ |archive-date=June 5, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/archive/alibday |title=Happy Birthday to 'The Greatest' |last=McAvennie |first=Mike |date=January 17, 2007 |publisher=WWE.com |access-date=February 16, 2009 |archive-date=February 25, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090225072959/http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/archive/alibday |url-status=live }}</ref>
	====Friendship====
	In an interview published in 2002, ] recalled that he had first met Ali around 1968. At this time Ali was continuing his legal fight to get his boxing license back, and Frazier was the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world. Frazier stated that he had campaigned vigorously for Ali to get his license; this included going to Washington and meeting the president to lobby on Ali's behalf. Frazier also lent Ali some money at this time.<ref name = "Facing Ali 115-6">{{cite book|title=Facing Ali|first=Stephen|last=Brunt|publisher=The Lyons Press|pages = 115–116|year=2002}}</ref>
			===Philanthropy, humanitarianism and politics===
	According to Dave Wolf, former sports editor of '']'' and a member of Frazier's entourage, Frazier was keen for Ali's return to boxing, because he believed that beating Ali would win him unambiguous acknowledgement as the "best".<ref name="Hauser 217"/> According to Wolf, Frazier was also kind to Ali during this time—agreeing to participate in staged confrontations, which enabled Ali to get publicity and earn money giving lectures. Wolf states that Frazier had deep respect for Ali's religious beliefs, and even participated in Muslim services at Ali's suggestion. Until Ali got "nasty" before their ], Frazier endorsed Ali's refusal to be drafted; Wolf recalls: "I remember telling me, 'If Baptists weren't allowed to fight, I wouldn't fight either'."<ref name="Hauser 217">{{cite book|title=Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times|first= Thomas|last=Hauser|publisher=Simon & Schuster|page = 217|year=1991}}</ref>
			Ali was known for being a humanitarian<ref name="sky">{{cite news |title=Muhammad Ali Handed Humanitarian Honour |url=https://news.sky.com/story/muhammad-ali-handed-humanitarian-honour-10470033 |work=] |date=September 14, 2012 |access-date=May 12, 2018 |archive-date=May 13, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180513080927/https://news.sky.com/story/muhammad-ali-handed-humanitarian-honour-10470033 |url-status=live }}</ref> and philanthropist.<ref>{{cite web |title=Muhammad Ali |url=https://www.biography.com/people/muhammad-ali-9181165 |website=] |language=en-us |date=January 18, 2018 |access-date=May 12, 2018 |archive-date=May 13, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180513003801/https://www.biography.com/people/muhammad-ali-9181165 |url-status=live }}</ref> He focused on practicing his ] and good deeds, donating millions to charity organizations and disadvantaged people of all religious backgrounds. It is estimated that Ali helped to feed more than 22{{nbsp}}million people afflicted by hunger across the world.<ref name="Christopher">{{cite book |last1=Christopher |first1=Paul J. |last2=Smith |first2=Alicia Marie |title=Greatest Sports Heroes of All Times: North American Edition |date=2006 |publisher=Encouragement Press, LLC |isbn=978-1-933766-09-6 |page=20 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=81mybCXNstAC&pg=PA20 |language=en |access-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031224609/https://books.google.com/books?id=81mybCXNstAC&pg=PA20#v=onepage&q&f=false |url-status=live }}</ref> Early in his career, one of his main focuses was youth education. He spoke at several ] about the importance of education and became the largest single black donor to the ] in 1967 by way of a $10,000 donation ($78,000 in 2020 USD). In late 1966, he also pledged to donate a total of $100,000 to the UNCF (specifically promising to donate much of the proceeds of his title defense against Cleveland Williams) and paid $4,500 per closed circuit installation at six HBCUs so they could watch his fights.<ref name="Ezra82"/>
	Ali and Frazier knew they would become wealthy if Ali returned to the ring.<ref name = "Facing Ali 116">{{cite book|title=Facing Ali|first=Stephen|last=Brunt|publisher=The Lyons Press|pages=116|year=2002}}</ref><ref name = "Glory Years 162">{{cite book|title=Muhammad Ali: The Glory Years|first1=Felix|last1=Dennis|first2=Don|last2=Atyeo|publisher=Miramax Books|page = 162|year=2003}}</ref> Prior to their first fight, both had expressed a liking for each other.<ref name = "Glory Years 180"/> In 1970, Ali had stated: "Me and Joe Frazier will be buddies. I just want it to go down in history that I didn't sell out or ] when I got famous, and I don't think Joe Frazier's going to do that either. He ain't dumb."<ref name = "Glory Years 180">{{cite book|title=Muhammad Ali: The Glory Years|first1=Felix|last1=Dennis|first2=Don|last2=Atyeo|publisher=Miramax Books|page = 180|year=2003}}</ref>
			Ali began visiting Africa, starting in 1964 when he visited Nigeria and ].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-36469288 |title=In pictures: Muhammad Ali's love affair with Africa |work=BBC News |date=June 9, 2016 |access-date=June 22, 2018 |archive-date=April 5, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180405012209/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-36469288 |url-status=live }}</ref> In 1974, he visited a ] camp in ], where Ali declared "support for the Palestinian struggle to liberate their homeland".<ref name="thenation">{{cite magazine |last=Zirin |first=Dave |url=http://www.thenation.com/article/andrew-cuomo-would-have-blacklisted-muhammad-ali/ |title=Andrew Cuomo Would Have Blacklisted Muhammad Ali |magazine=] |date=June 8, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=August 28, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160828102821/https://www.thenation.com/article/andrew-cuomo-would-have-blacklisted-muhammad-ali/ |url-status=live }}</ref> During that visit Ali also declared that the "United States is the stronghold of Zionism and imperialism."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Zidan |first=Karim |title=We can all learn from Muhammad Ali's solidarity with Palestine |url=https://www.sportspolitika.news/p/muhammad-ali-palestine-israel-activism |date=November 21, 2023 |website=Sports Politika |access-date=February 25, 2024 |archive-date=February 17, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240217084531/https://www.sportspolitika.news/p/muhammad-ali-palestine-israel-activism |url-status=live }}</ref> In 1978, following his loss to Spinks and before winning the rematch, Ali visited ] and received ] there.<ref name="thenewinquiry.com2">{{Cite web |date=June 19, 2016 |title=Muhammad Ali, We Still Love You: Unsteady Dreams of a "Muslim International" |url=https://thenewinquiry.com/muhammad-ali-we-still-love-you/ |access-date=January 21, 2022 |website=The New Inquiry |archive-date=January 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220121190107/https://thenewinquiry.com/muhammad-ali-we-still-love-you/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Rahman |first=Mizan |url=http://www.gulf-times.com/story/497055/Muhammad-Ali-s-forgotten-land-in-Bangladesh |title=Muhammad Ali's forgotten land in Bangladesh |work=] |date=June 6, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=September 12, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160912113146/http://www.gulf-times.com/story/497055/Muhammad-Ali-s-forgotten-land-in-Bangladesh |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="thenewinquiry.com">{{Cite web|date=June 19, 2016|title=Muhammad Ali, We Still Love You: Unsteady Dreams of a "Muslim International"|url=https://thenewinquiry.com/muhammad-ali-we-still-love-you/|access-date=January 21, 2022|website=The New Inquiry|archive-date=January 21, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220121190107/https://thenewinquiry.com/muhammad-ali-we-still-love-you/|url-status=live}}</ref> The same year, he participated in ], a protest march in the United States in support of Native American rights, along with singer ] and actor ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2016/06/04/greatest-muhammad-ali-walks-164692 |title='The Greatest' Muhammad Ali Walks On |publisher=] |last=Schilling |first=Vincent |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160821134332/http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2016/06/04/greatest-muhammad-ali-walks-164692|archive-date=August 21, 2016}}</ref>
	====Opponents====
	Ali and Frazier fought three fights in the span of five years; the first and third of these are widely regarded to be among the greatest of all boxing bouts, and the Ali-Frazier rivalry has been hailed as one of the greatest any sport has seen.<ref name="Hauser 216">{{cite book|title=Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times|first=Thomas|last=Hauser|publisher=Simon & Schuster|page = 216|year=1991}}</ref><ref name="SI Nack"/> Writing in '']'', William Nack commented: {{Quote|Of all the names joined forever in the annals of boxing—from ]-] to ]-], from ]-] to ]-]—none are more fiercely bound by a hyphen than Ali-Frazier. Not ]-] in golf nor ]-] in tennis, as ardently competitive as these rivalries were, conjure up anything remotely close to the epic theater of Ali-Frazier.<ref name="SI Nack">{{cite news|url=http://www.si.com/vault/1996/09/30/208924/muhammad-ali-joe-frazier-war-of-words |title='The Fight's Over, Joe' |work=Sports Illustrated |date=30 September 1996|accessdate=25 October 2016}}</ref>}}
			In early 1980, Ali was recruited by President ] for a diplomatic mission to Africa, in an effort to persuade a number of African governments to join the US-led ] of the ] in protest of the ]. Having arrived in ], Ali told cameras, "] is invading a Muslim country, Asiatic country," and that its probable intention to head to ]-rich ] to take wells and ports "could lead to ]. My purpose in coming here was to try to stop that."<ref>{{cite AV media | people=Fuqua, Antoine (director) | date=2019 | title='']: Part II'' | type=Motion picture | publisher=HBO}}</ref> However, according to Ali biographer Thomas Hauser, "at best, it was ill-conceived; at worst, a diplomatic disaster." The Tanzanian government was insulted that Carter had sent an athlete to discuss a serious political issue. One official asked whether the United States would "send ] to negotiate with London". Consequently, Ali was only received by the youth and culture minister, rather than President ]. Ali was unable to explain why the African countries should join the US boycott when it had failed to support the African boycott of the ] (in protest of ]), although neither did the ], and was unaware of the sentiment that the Soviet Union had backed some popular revolutions on the continent, although none of the countries on the itinerary were Soviet allies.<ref name="Hauser 2004 p397">{{Harvnb|Hauser|2004|p=397}}</ref><ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Ezra |first=Michael |url=https://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2016/06/muhammad-ali-diplomat-213941 |title=Muhammad Ali's Strange, Failed Diplomatic Career |magazine=] |date=June 5, 2016 |access-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-date=April 1, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401234340/https://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2016/06/muhammad-ali-diplomat-213941 |url-status=live }}</ref> The Nigerian government also rebuffed him and confirmed that they would be participating in the Moscow Games. Ali did, however, convince the government of ] to boycott the Soviet Olympics.<ref>{{cite news |last=Cuddihy |first=Martin |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-06-09/muhummad-ali-is-remembered-by-africa/7495452 |title=Muhammad Ali: Africa remembers the boxing legend |publisher=] |date=June 9, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=September 5, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160905151738/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-06-09/muhummad-ali-is-remembered-by-africa/7495452 |url-status=live }}</ref>
	According to Ali, Frazier's style of boxing made him a tougher opponent for him than Liston or Foreman because he was vulnerable to Frazier's in-close left ]. Had he fought with Frazier before his three-and-half year break from boxing, when he was younger, "I'd have danced for fifteen rounds, and Joe wouldn't have ever caught me."<ref name="Hauser 231">{{cite book|title=Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times|first= Thomas|last=Hauser|publisher=Simon & Schuster|page = 231|year=1991}}</ref>{{efn|{{Quote| was harder for me than Liston or Foreman, because he had what I was vulnerable to−a good in-close left ]. Foreman wasn't an ] or a hooker. He was an ]ter with a right hand and a ], always looking you in the eye. Liston was scarier than Frazier, but I fought Liston when I was young. Joe stayed on me, always on my chest, and from out of nowhere he'd throw the hook. If I was young, I'd have danced for fifteen rounds, and Joe wouldn't have ever caught me. But the first time we fought, I was three-and-half years out of shape. |author=Muhammad Ali<ref name="Hauser 231"/>}}}}
			On January 19, 1981, in Los Angeles, Ali talked a ] man down from jumping off a ninth-floor ledge, an event that made national news.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.slate.com/articles/sports/sports_nut/2016/06/the_time_muhammad_ali_stopped_a_man_from_leaping_to_his_death.html |title=The Time Muhammad Ali Stopped a Man From Leaping to His Death |first=Josh |last=Levin |work=Slate |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=June 4, 2016 |archive-date=June 4, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160604153847/http://www.slate.com/articles/sports/sports_nut/2016/06/the_time_muhammad_ali_stopped_a_man_from_leaping_to_his_death.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Ali Talks Would-Be Jumper Off Ninth-Floor Fire Escape |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1350&dat=19810119&id=CRJPAAAAIBAJ&pg=6956,2319132&hl=en |publisher=The Blade / Associated Press |date=January 20, 1981 |access-date=September 7, 2020 |archive-date=August 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210828091017/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1350&dat=19810119&id=CRJPAAAAIBAJ&pg=6956%2C2319132&hl=en |url-status=live }}</ref>
	After ], Frazier called Ali "a great champion",<ref name="SI Kram">{{cite news|url=http://www.si.com/vault/1975/10/13/613261/muhammad-ali-joe-frazier-thrilla-in-manilla |title='Lawdy, Lawdy He's Great' |work=Sports Illustrated |date=October 13, 1975|accessdate=October 29, 2016}}</ref> and, referring to Ali, graciously stated that "y man fought a good fight";<ref name="Aksyon">{{cite news|url=http://www.interaksyon.com/interaktv/marcos-used-thrilla-in-manila-fight-as-distraction-from-filipinos-plight |title=Marcos used Thrilla in Manila fight as distraction from Filipinos' plight |work=Inter Aksyon |date=November 10, 2011|accessdate=October 30, 2016}}</ref> while Ali declared Frazier to be "the greatest fighter of all time next to me."<ref name = "Facing Ali 123">{{cite book|title=Facing Ali|authors= Stephen Brunt|publisher=The Lyons Press|pages = 123|year=2002}}</ref>
			] with Ali in the ] in 1983]]
	====Trash talk and altercations====
			In 1984, Ali announced his support for ] of United States President ]. When asked to elaborate on his endorsement of Reagan, Ali told reporters, "He's keeping God in schools and that's enough."<ref name=NYT>{{cite news |newspaper=] |title=Campaign Notes: Muhammad Ali Switches His Support to Reagan |agency=] |date=October 3, 1984 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1984/10/03/us/campaign-notes-muhammad-ali-switches-his-support-to-reagan.html |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=September 14, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914091416/http://www.nytimes.com/1984/10/03/us/campaign-notes-muhammad-ali-switches-his-support-to-reagan.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In 1985, he visited Israel to request the release of Muslim prisoners at ], which Israel declined.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://archive.jta.org/1985/06/28/archive/muhammad-ali-steps-into-ring |title=Muhammad Ali Steps into Ring |work=] |date=June 28, 1985 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=September 14, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914095112/http://archive.jta.org/1985/06/28/archive/muhammad-ali-steps-into-ring |url-status=live }}</ref>
	In the buildup to their three bouts, Ali called Frazier "dumb" and an "Uncle Tom" before their first fight, "ignorant" before the second, and a "gorilla" before the third.<ref name="Guardian Hauser">{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2005/sep/04/features.sport16 |title=The unforgiven |work=The Guardian |date=September 3, 2005|accessdate=October 30, 2016}}</ref><ref name = "Facing Ali 121">{{cite book|title=Facing Ali|first=Stephen|last=Brunt|publisher=The Lyons Press|pages=121|year=2002}}</ref> ] and Atyeo have noted that given Ali's warm words for Frazier in the past, his jibes about Frazier sounded hollow.<ref name = "Glory Years 180"/>
			Around 1987, the California Bicentennial Foundation for the U.S. Constitution selected Ali to personify the vitality of the U.S. Constitution and ]. Ali rode on a float at the following year's ], launching the U.S. Constitution's 200th birthday commemoration.<ref name="Liberty">{{cite web |title=Muhammad Ali 2012 Liberty Medal Ceremony |url=https://constitutioncenter.org/calendar/muhammad-ali-2012-liberty-medal-ceremony |publisher=] |access-date=January 17, 2018 |archive-date=January 18, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180118064736/https://constitutioncenter.org/calendar/muhammad-ali-2012-liberty-medal-ceremony }}</ref> In 1988, during the ], Ali participated in a Chicago rally in support of ].<ref name="thenation" /> The same year, he visited ] to raise awareness about the plight of ] victims.<ref>{{cite news |last=Khaled |first=Ali |url=http://english.alarabiya.net/en/sports/2016/06/04/How-Muhammad-Ali-became-a-sporting-hero-to-the-Arab-world.html |title=How Muhammad Ali became a sporting hero to the Arab world |publisher=] |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=September 17, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160917203313/http://english.alarabiya.net/en/sports/2016/06/04/How-Muhammad-Ali-became-a-sporting-hero-to-the-Arab-world.html |url-status=live }}</ref> According to '']'', Ali supported ] politically.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.politico.com/story/2016/06/muhammad-ali-orrin-hatch-224132|title=Muhammad Ali and Orrin Hatch: An unlikely friendship|first=John|last=Bresnahan|website=Politico|date=June 10, 2016|access-date=June 24, 2020|archive-date=July 17, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200717055508/https://www.politico.com/story/2016/06/muhammad-ali-orrin-hatch-224132|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1989, he participated in an Indian charity event with the ] in ], Kerala, along with ] actor ].<ref name="timesofindia" />
	On January 23, 1974, five days before their ], Ali and Frazier had a public altercation captured on television. ABC Sports's ] had arranged for the two to come to the studio to comment on their first fight. Things went smoothly until Frazier commented about Ali having to visit a hospital after the fight. Ali immediately responded by claiming he had gone to a hospital for ten minutes whereas Frazier had been hospitalized for three weeks after the fight,{{efn|According to Dave Wolf, the reason for Frazier's hospitalization was hypertension from which he had been suffering before the fight.<ref name="Hauser 256">{{cite book|title=Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times|first=Thomas|last=Hauser|publisher=Simon & Schuster|page = 256|year=1991}}</ref>}} and concluded by calling Frazier "ignorant."<ref name = "Glory Years 204"/><ref name="Hauser 255">{{cite book|title=Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times|first=Thomas|last=Hauser|publisher=Simon & Schuster|page = 255|year=1991}}</ref> Frazier then snapped; removing his studio earplug, Frazier reached across to Ali protesting the usage of the word "ignorant".<ref name="Hauser 256">{{cite book|title=Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times|first=Thomas|last=Hauser|publisher=Simon & Schuster|page = 256|year=1991}}</ref><ref name = "Glory Years 204"/> Soon the two were wrestling on the floor till they were separated by onlookers.<ref name = "Glory Years 204">{{cite book|title=Muhammad Ali: The Glory Years|first1=Felix|last1=Dennis|first2=Don|last2=Atyeo|publisher=Miramax Books|page = 204|year=2003}}</ref><ref name="Hauser 256-57">{{cite book|title=Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times|first=Thomas|last=Hauser|publisher=Simon & Schuster|pages = 256–57|year=1991}}</ref>{{efn|] commented that instead of letting Ali's words upset him, Frazier's response to Ali calling him ignorant should have been: 'Yeah, okay, I might be ignorant, but this ignorant man is going to kick your ass.'<ref name = "Facing Ali 104">{{cite book|title=Facing Ali|first=Stephen|last=Brunt|publisher=The Lyons Press|pages = 104|year=2002}}</ref>}}
			]
	According to veteran boxing commentator Ronnie Nathanielsz, during the buildup to Thrilla in Manilla, Ali once awakened Frazier in the middle of the night by constantly screaming. When Frazier appeared on the balcony of his hotel room, Ali pointed a toy gun at him and shouted: "I am going to shoot you."<ref name="Aksyon"/>
			In 1990, Ali traveled to Iraq prior to the ] and met with president ] in an attempt to negotiate the release of American hostages. Ali secured the release of the hostages, in exchange for promising Hussein that he would bring America "an honest account" of Iraq. Despite arranging the hostages' release, he received criticism from president ], and ], the highest-ranking American diplomat in Baghdad.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Shenon |first1=Philip |title=MIDEAST TENSIONS; At Baghdad's Bazaar, Everyone Wants Hostages |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1990/11/27/world/mideast-tensions-at-baghdad-s-bazaar-everyone-wants-hostages.html |access-date=June 19, 2021 |work=The New York Times |date=November 27, 1990 |archive-date=June 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624221823/https://www.nytimes.com/1990/11/27/world/mideast-tensions-at-baghdad-s-bazaar-everyone-wants-hostages.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.answercoalition.org/i_was_with_muhammad_ali_on_his_hostage_release_trip_to_iraq_and_the_media_has_it_all_wrong |title=I was with Muhammad Ali on his hostage-release trip to Iraq — and the media has it all wrong |publisher=ANSWER Coalition |author=Brian Becker |date=June 10, 2016 |access-date=July 1, 2018 |archive-date=July 2, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180702011125/http://www.answercoalition.org/i_was_with_muhammad_ali_on_his_hostage_release_trip_to_iraq_and_the_media_has_it_all_wrong |url-status=live }}</ref>
			In 1994, Ali campaigned to the United States government to come to the aid of refugees afflicted by the ], and to donate to organizations helping Rwandan refugees.<ref name="Christopher" />
	Immediately after Thrilla in Manilla, Ali summoned Frazier's son ] to his dressing room and apologized for the things he had said about Frazier.<ref name = "Glory Years 244"/>{{efn|{{Quote|Ali asked for me to come to his dressing room before any of the press arrived. I went in there and Ali was real tired and he hugged me and apologized for what he'd said about my father before the fight. He said, 'Tell your father he's a great man'.|author=Marvis Frazier<ref name = "Glory Years 244">{{cite book|title=Muhammad Ali: The Glory Years|first1=Felix|last1=Dennis|first2=Don|last2=Atyeo|publisher=Miramax Books|page = 244|year=2003}}</ref>}}}} When Marvis conveyed Ali's contrition to him, Frazier commented that Ali should have communicated this to him directly.<ref name = "Glory Years 244"/> After returning to the US, Ali called ], and asked for Frazier's private number, saying he wanted to apologize to Frazier. Lewis then conveyed this request to Frazier, but was told not to share it with Ali, according to Lewis.<ref name="SI Nack"/>
			In 1996, he lit the flame at the ] in Atlanta, Georgia. It was watched by an estimated 3.5{{nbsp}}billion viewers worldwide.<ref name="Hajeski" />
	====Finale====
	In 1988, Ali and Frazier joined Foreman, ], and ] in Las Vegas for the making of the film ''Champions Forever''. At a local gym, Frazier came across Ali before a crowd of spectators, and said: "Look at Ali. Look what's happened to him. All your talkin', man. I'm faster than you are now. You're damaged goods."<ref name="SI Nack"/> Ali, already afflicted with Parkinson's, insisted that he remained faster than Frazier and pointing to a heavy bag suggested a contest of who can hit the bag the fastest. Frazier immediately took off his coat, and moving to the bag, threw a dozen rapid punches at it accompanied by loud grunts. Without removing his coat, Ali strolled towards the bag, held the ready stance, mimicked a Frazier grunt without throwing a punch, and then addressed Frazier with the words "Wanna see it again, Joe?"<ref name="SI Nack"/> Everyone laughed, except Frazier.<ref name="SI Nack"/>
			After Ali met a lesbian couple who were fans of his in 1997, he smiled and said to friend and biographer Thomas Hauser, "They look like they're happy together." Hauser wrote about the story, "The thought that Liz and Roz (the lesbian couple he met) were happy pleased Muhammad. Ali wanted people to be happy."<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Hauser |first1=Thomas |date=June 17, 2016 |title=Muhammad Ali: They Look Like They're Happy Together |url=https://www.huffpost.com/entry/muhammad-ali-they-look-li_1_b_10517930 |access-date=September 21, 2020 |website=HuffPost |language=en |archive-date=October 1, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201001170533/https://www.huffpost.com/entry/muhammad-ali-they-look-li_1_b_10517930 |url-status=live }}</ref>
	Later that day, Frazier started walking towards Ali after having one drink too many. ], who was present, recalled that for the next 10 minutes Larry Holmes positioned himself between Ali and Frazier, preventing Frazier from reaching Ali. George Foreman then took over and acted as Ali's shield for the next 10 minutes. Throughout this incident, Ali remained oblivious to what was going on.<ref name="SI Nack"/>
			On November 17, 2002, Ali went to Afghanistan as the "]".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=5382&Cr=Muhammad&Cr1=Ali |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021213180823/http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=5382&Cr=Muhammad&Cr1=Ali |archive-date=December 13, 2002 |title=UN Messenger of Peace Muhammad Ali arrives in Afghanistan |publisher=UN News Centre |date=December 13, 2002 |access-date=January 29, 2012}}</ref> He was in Kabul for a three-day goodwill mission as a special guest of the UN.<ref>{{cite magazine |access-date=May 20, 2008 |url=http://www.life.com/image/1647010?epmid=1 |title=Muhammad Ali visits Kabul | magazine=LIFE |publisher=Getty Images |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100316125459/http://www.life.com/image/1647010?epmid=1 |archive-date=March 16, 2010}}</ref>
	In his 1996 autobiography, in which he always refers to Ali as Cassius Clay,<ref>{{cite web |title=Smokin' Joe: The Autobiography of a Heavyweight Champion of the World, Smokin' Joe Frazier|url=http://www.publishersweekly.com/978-0-02-860847-1|accessdate=October 30, 2016}}</ref> Frazier wrote: {{Quote|Truth is, I'd like to rumble with that sucker again—beat him up piece by piece and mail him back to Jesus.... Now people ask me if I feel bad for him, now that things aren't going so well for him. Nope. I don't. Fact is, I don't give a damn. They want me to love him, but I'll open up the graveyard and bury his ass when the Lord chooses to take him.<ref name="SI Nack"/><ref name="ESPN Woods">{{cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/blog/new-york/boxing/post/_/id/391/joe-frazier-often-had-a-new-york-state-of-mind |title=Joe Frazier hated Muhammad Ali |work=ESPN|date= 9 November 2011|accessdate=30 October 2016}}</ref>}}
			On September 1, 2009, Ali visited ], County Clare, Ireland, the home of his great-grandfather, Abe Grady, who emigrated to the U.S. in the 1860s, eventually settling in Kentucky.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.independent.ie/national-news/fightin-talk--as-ennis-awaits-mohammed-ali-1857049.html |title=Fightin' talk as Ennis awaits Muhammed Ali (''sic'') |date=August 12, 2009 |work=Irish Independent |access-date=August 26, 2009 |first=Brian |last=McDonald |archive-date=August 15, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090815171334/http://www.independent.ie/national-news/fightin-talk--as-ennis-awaits-mohammed-ali-1857049.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
	Commenting on Ali lighting the Olympic flame in 1996, Frazier stated that it would have been good if Ali had fallen into the cauldron after lighting the flame, and that he would have pushed Ali in himself if he had the chance to do so.<ref name="SI Nack"/><ref name = "Facing Ali 102">{{cite book|title=Facing Ali|first=Stephen|last=Brunt|publisher=The Lyons Press|pages = 102|year=2002}}</ref><ref name="HC Jacobs">{{cite news|url=http://articles.courant.com/2011-11-08/sports/hc-jacobs-joe-frazier-column-1109-20111108_1_ali-s-parkinson-s-joe-frazier-muhammad-ali |title=Hoping Joe Frazier Actually Forgave Muhammad Ali |work=Hartford Courant|date= November 8, 2011|accessdate=October 30, 2016}}</ref> In a press conference held on July 30, 1996, Frazier accused Ali of being a "draft dodger", and a racist;{{efn|In the 1996 press conference, Frazier stated that " didn't like his white brothers." <ref name="SI Nack"/> Prior to their first fight, Frazier had questioned Ali's commitment to blacks, given "a lot of guys around him are white."<ref name = "Glory Years 180">{{cite book|title=Muhammad Ali: The Glory Years|first1=Felix|last1=Dennis|first2=Don|last2=Atyeo|publisher=Miramax Books|page = 180|year=2003}}</ref>}} and claimed he would have been a better choice to light the Olympic flame than Ali.<ref name="SI Nack"/> Also in 1996, Frazier claimed Ali was suffering from "Joe Frazier-itis" and "left-hook-itis".<ref name="SI Nack"/>
			On July 27, 2012, Ali was a titular bearer of the Olympic flag during the ] of the ] in London. He was helped to his feet by his wife Lonnie to stand before the flag due to his Parkinson's syndrome rendering him unable to carry it into the stadium.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://edition.cnn.com/2012/07/27/sport/olympics-muhammad-ali/index.html |title=Muhammad Ali returns to the Olympic stage, once again, in London |last=Wilson |first=Stan |date=July 28, 2012 |work=CNN|access-date=July 29, 2012 |archive-date=July 29, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120729023056/http://edition.cnn.com/2012/07/27/sport/olympics-muhammad-ali/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The same year, he was awarded the ] in recognition of his lifelong efforts in activism, philanthropy and humanitarianism.<ref name="Liberty" /><ref name="sky" />
	In a 1997 interview, Frazier expressed no regret for the words he had used for Ali at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. According to Frazier: {{Quote|We weren't animals. We were human beings. He called me a gorilla. An Uncle Tom. Uncle Tom? I grew up so poor and so black in South Carolina, even the water we drank was colored. The only guy I 'tommed' for was him, giving in to him. God gave him so many gifts. Fast. Pretty. Smart. Strong. He didn't have to do what he did.<ref name="HC Jacobs"/>}}
			=== Earnings ===
	In a 2001 interview with the New York Times, Ali again apologized to Frazier for calling him names which, Ali claimed, was done to promote their fights. Frazier initially accepted the apology saying it was time to put this issue behind them.<ref name="NYT Sandomir">{{cite news|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2001/03/15/sports/boxing-no-floating-no-stinging-ali-extends-hand-to-frazier.html |title=BOXING; No Floating, No Stinging: Ali Extends Hand to Frazier |work=The New York Times |date=March 15, 2001|accessdate=October 30, 2016}}</ref> However, subsequently Frazier commented that Ali should apologize directly to him instead of apologizing through a newspaper. Reacting to this, Ali stated: "If you see Frazier, you tell him he's still a gorilla."<ref name="ESPN Sielski">{{cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/classic/biography/s/Frazier_Joe.html |title=Frazier battled Ali in timeless trilogy |work=ESPN|accessdate=October 30, 2016}}</ref>
			By 1978, Ali's total fight purse earnings were estimated to be nearly $60{{nbsp}}million<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-age/138784393/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240115122421/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-age/138784393/|newspaper=] |title=Corporal Spinks, you're the greatest! |archive-date=January 15, 2024|date=February 17, 1978 |access-date=January 15, 2024|via=]}}</ref> (inflation-adjusted {{US$|{{#expr:({{Inflation|US|12550000|1969}}+{{Inflation|US|1050000|1970}}+{{Inflation|US|3600000|1971}}+{{Inflation|US|1800000|1972}}+{{Inflation|US|950000|1973}}+{{Inflation|US|7500000|1974}}+{{Inflation|US|11000000|1975}}+{{Inflation|US|12300000|1976}}+{{Inflation|US|5750000|1977}}+{{Inflation|US|3500000|1978}})/1000000 round 0}} million|long=no}}), including an estimated $47.45{{nbsp}}million grossed between 1970 and 1978.<ref name="jet78">{{cite magazine |title=Muhammad Ali's Finances A Puzzle To News Media; 'I'm Broke,' He Quips |magazine=] |date=April 13, 1978 |volume=54 |issue=4 |page=53 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=c0IDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA53 |language=en |access-date=July 24, 2023 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031224611/https://books.google.com/books?id=c0IDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA53#v=onepage&q&f=false |url-status=live }}</ref> By 1980, his total fight purse earnings were estimated to be up to $70{{nbsp}}million<ref name="people">{{cite news |title=His Lifestyle, His Ex-Wives, His Expensive Entourage: They Explain Why Ali Took An $8 Million Beating |url=http://people.com/archive/his-lifestyle-his-ex-wives-his-expensive-entourage-they-explain-why-ali-took-an-8-million-beating-vol-14-no-16/ |work=] |date=October 20, 1980 |language=en |access-date=May 12, 2018 |archive-date=May 12, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180512112825/http://people.com/archive/his-lifestyle-his-ex-wives-his-expensive-entourage-they-explain-why-ali-took-an-8-million-beating-vol-14-no-16/ |url-status=live }}</ref> (inflation-adjusted ${{#expr:(304400000+{{Inflation|US|10000000|1981}})/1000000 round 0}}{{nbsp}}million).
			In 1978, Ali revealed that he was "broke" and several news outlets reported his net worth to be an estimated {{US$|3.5 million|long=no}}<ref name="jet78" /> (inflation-adjusted ${{Inflation|US|3.5|1978}}{{nbsp}}million). The press attributed his decline in wealth to several factors, including taxes consuming at least half of his income, management taking a third of his income,<ref name="jet78" /> his lifestyle, and spending on family, charity and religious causes.<ref name="people" />
	In his interview in ]'s 2002 book ], Frazier, referring to how he had contributed to Ali's infirmity, claimed he was sure Ali thinks of him whenever he gets out of bed, and that whatever Ali was undergoing was the will of God.<ref name = "Facing Ali 102, 124"/>{{efn|In his book, Brunt notes Frazier's struggle of revealing his genuine beliefs about Ali, and being savvy, because by now he had people looking after his commercial interests, and "somebody probably had a talk with him about image and public relations and how they relate to earning potential...Still, even the new, polished, packaged Frazier has his moments."<ref name = "Facing Ali 102, 124">{{cite book|title=Facing Ali|first=Stephen|last=Brunt|publisher=The Lyons Press|pages = 102, 124|year=2002}}</ref>}}
			In 2006, Ali sold his name and image for $50{{nbsp}}million,<ref>{{cite news |last=Burkeman |first=Oliver |title=Ali, the Greatest, sells his name and image for $50m |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2006/apr/13/usa.sport |work=] |date=April 13, 2006 |language=en |access-date=May 11, 2018 |archive-date=May 11, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180511150317/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2006/apr/13/usa.sport |url-status=live }}</ref> after which '']'' estimated his net worth to be $55{{nbsp}}million in 2006.<ref>{{cite news |title=Muhammad Ali, The Top 100 Celebrities |url=https://www.forbes.com/lists/2006/53/39A3.html |access-date=May 10, 2018 |work=Forbes Celebrity 100 |year=2006 |archive-date=May 12, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180512045613/https://www.forbes.com/lists/2006/53/39A3.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Following his death in 2016, his fortune was estimated to be between $50{{nbsp}}million and $80{{nbsp}}million.<ref>{{cite news |title=Muhammad Ali's Name Likely to Rake in the Cash for Years to Come |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/business/business-news/muhammad-ali-s-name-likely-rake-cash-years-come-n587086 |work=] |date=June 7, 2016 |access-date=May 11, 2018 |archive-date=May 11, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180511214757/https://www.nbcnews.com/business/business-news/muhammad-ali-s-name-likely-rake-cash-years-come-n587086 |url-status=live }}</ref>
	In a 2008 interview, Frazier stated he had forgiven Ali, but was unable to comment on whether Ali's present condition was due to divine punishment, as he had earlier stated, since "God works in a mysterious way."<ref name="Telegraph Higginbotham">{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/3563084/Joe-Frazier-Still-Smokin-after-all-these-years.html |title=Joe Frazier: Still Smokin' after all these years |work=The Telegraph|date= November 11, 2008|accessdate=October 30, 2016}}</ref>
			===Declining health===
	In 2011, on the eve of the 40th anniversary of his first fight with Ali, and the year of his death, Frazier reiterated that he had forgiven Ali.<ref name="HC Jacobs"/>{{efn|In a column in the ''Hartford Courant'', published the day after Frazier's death, Jeff Jacobs wrote: "I hope Smokin' Joe did . I hope he let every inch of hate go. The Greatest and The Greatest Opponent deserve to join gloves and walk together into immortality.<ref name="HC Jacobs"/>}} Frazier's funeral service was attended by Ali who reportedly stood and clapped vigorously when the Rev. ] asked the mourners to stand and bring their hands together one last time for Frazier.<ref name="NYP AP 2011">{{cite news|url=http://nypost.com/2011/11/14/ali-among-4000-at-frazier-funeral/|title=Ali among 4,000 at Frazier funeral |work=New York Post|date= November 14, 2011|accessdate=October 30, 2016}}</ref>
			{{Quote box
			| quote = I'm blessed and thankful to God that I understand he's trying me. This is a trial from God. He gave me this illness to remind me that I am not number one; He is.
			| source = —Muhammad Ali reflecting on having Parkinson's disease<ref>{{Cite web|author=<!--Not stated-->|date=January 17, 2002|title=Ali's words speak for themselves|url=http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2002/jan/17/boxing|access-date=October 20, 2021|website=The Guardian|language=en|archive-date=October 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211021021743/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2002/jan/17/boxing|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite tweet|title="I'm blessed and thankful to God that I understand he's trying me. This is a trial from God. He gave me this illness to remind me that I am not number one; He is." – #MuhammadAli reflecting on having Parkinson's disease. . #Giving #Strength #Blessed #God|url=https://twitter.com/muhammadali/status/1206986377927094272 |number=1206986377927094272 |user=MuhammadAli |access-date=October 20, 2021|language=en|archive-date=October 20, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211020142206/https://twitter.com/muhammadali/status/1206986377927094272|url-status=live}}</ref>
			| align = right
			| width = 35em
			}}
			Ali's Parkinson's syndrome led to a gradual decline in his health, though he was still active into the early 2000s, promoting his own biopic, '']'', in 2001. That year he also contributed an on-camera segment to the '']'' benefit concert.<ref>{{cite news |title=60 Million Watch America: A Tribute to Heroes |url=https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/story?id=102292 |date=September 23, 2001 |work=] |access-date=January 17, 2018 |archive-date=January 18, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180118180953/http://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/story?id=102292 |url-status=live }}</ref>
			] testify before a Senate committee on providing government funding to combat Parkinson's.]]
			In 1998, Ali began working with actor ], who has Parkinson's disease, to raise awareness and fund research for a cure. They made a joint appearance before Congress to push the case in 2002. In 2000, Ali worked with ] to raise awareness and encourage donations for research.<ref>{{cite news |last=Bulman |first=May |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/muhammad-ali-dead-michael-j-fox-tribute-parkinsons-disease-common-fight-a7066416.html |title=Muhammad Ali dead: Michael J Fox pays tribute to fellow Parkinson's sufferer and their 'common fight' |work=] |date=June 5, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=September 14, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914014322/http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/muhammad-ali-dead-michael-j-fox-tribute-parkinsons-disease-common-fight-a7066416.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
			In February 2013, Ali's brother ] said Muhammad could no longer speak and could be dead within days.<ref>{{cite news |last=Chasmar |first=Jessica |title=Brother: Muhammad Ali 'could be dead in days' |url=http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2013/feb/3/brother-muhammad-ali-could-be-dead-days/ |work=] |date=February 3, 2013 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=September 5, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160905070418/http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2013/feb/3/brother-muhammad-ali-could-be-dead-days/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Ali's daughter May May Ali responded to the rumors, stating that she had talked to him on the phone the morning of February 3 and he was fine.<ref>{{cite news |title=Muhammad Ali's daughter: Father watching Super Bowl, not near death |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/muhammad-alis-daughter-father-watching-super-bowl-not-near-death/ |work=] |date=February 5, 2013 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=November 3, 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131103204453/http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-400_162-57567369/muhammad-alis-daughter-father-watching-super-bowl-not-near-death/ }}</ref> On December 20, 2014, Ali was hospitalized for a mild case of ].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.nujournal.com/page/content.detail/id/761659/Muhammad-Ali-hospitalized-with-pneumonia.html?isap=1&nav=5036 |title=Muhammad Ali hospitalized with pneumonia |work=The Journal |access-date=December 21, 2014 |agency=Associated Press |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141221093217/http://www.nujournal.com/page/content.detail/id/761659/Muhammad-Ali-hospitalized-with-pneumonia.html?isap=1&nav=5036 |archive-date=December 21, 2014}}</ref> Ali was once again hospitalized on January 15, 2015, for a ] after being found unresponsive at a guest house in Scottsdale, Arizona.<ref>{{cite news |first=Christopher |last=Bucktin |url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/boxing/boxing-legend-muhammad-ali-intensive-4987518 |title=Boxing legend Muhammad Ali in hospital after being found 'unresponsive' at his home |newspaper=The Mirror |access-date=January 16, 2015 |date=January 16, 2015 |archive-date=January 16, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150116073400/http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/boxing/boxing-legend-muhammad-ali-intensive-4987518 |url-status=live }}</ref> He was released the next day.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/sports/ali-out-of-hospital-in-time-for-73rd-birthday/ar-AA8g057?ocid=ansspafp11 |title=Ali out of hospital in time for 73rd birthday |publisher=MSN |access-date=January 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150120224903/http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/sports/ali-out-of-hospital-in-time-for-73rd-birthday/ar-AA8g057?ocid=ansspafp11 |archive-date=January 20, 2015}}</ref>
			==Death==
			Ali was hospitalized in ], on June 2, 2016, with a respiratory illness. Though his condition was initially described as fair, it worsened, and he died the following day at the age of 74 from ].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Martin |first1=Jill |title=Muhammad Ali hospitalized with respiratory issue |url=http://edition.cnn.com/2016/06/02/us/muhammad-ali-hospitalized-with-respiratory-issue/ |access-date=June 3, 2016 |work=CNN |date=June 2, 2016 |archive-date=December 26, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181226052922/https://edition.cnn.com/2016/06/02/us/muhammad-ali-hospitalized-with-respiratory-issue/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://abcnews.go.com/US/muhammad-ali-dies-greatest-boxer-dead-74/story?id=18391211 |title=Muhammad Ali Dies: 'The Greatest' Boxer Dead at 74 |work=] |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=June 6, 2016 |archive-date=June 5, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160605060602/https://abcnews.go.com/US/muhammad-ali-dies-greatest-boxer-dead-74/story?id=18391211 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Lipsyte |first=Robert |date=June 3, 2016 |title=Muhammad Ali Dies at 74: Titan of Boxing and the 20th Century |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/04/sports/muhammad-ali-dies.html |url-status=live |url-access=limited |access-date=June 3, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222012025/https://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/04/sports/muhammad-ali-dies.html |archive-date=February 22, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Schuppe |first=Jon |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/news/sports/muhammad-alis-hometown-louisville-honors-late-boxer-our-inspiration-n585816 |title=Muhammad Ali Died of Septic Shock, Will Be Honored at Public Funeral: Spokesman |work=] |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=June 6, 2016 |archive-date=June 6, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160606001542/http://www.nbcnews.com/news/sports/muhammad-alis-hometown-louisville-honors-late-boxer-our-inspiration-n585816 |url-status=live }}</ref>
			===News coverage and tributes===
			Following Ali's death, he was the number-one trending topic on Twitter for over 12 hours and on Facebook for several days. ] played their documentary ''Muhammad Ali: Made In Miami''. ] played four hours of non-stop commercial-free coverage of Ali. News networks, such as ], ], ], and ], also covered him extensively.{{citation needed|date=March 2024}}
			He was mourned globally, and a family spokesman said the family "certainly believes that Muhammad was a citizen of the world ... and they know that the world grieves with him".<ref name="Columbian">{{cite news |title=Ali: 'Citizen' of the world' |url=http://www.columbian.com/news/2016/jun/04/ali-citizen-of-the-world/ |newspaper=Columbian |date=June 6, 2016 |access-date=June 6, 2016 |archive-date=June 6, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160606120632/http://www.columbian.com/news/2016/jun/04/ali-citizen-of-the-world/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Politicians such as ], ], ], ], ] and more paid tribute to Ali. Ali also received numerous tributes from the world of sports including ], ], ], ], the ], ], ] and more. Then-Louisville mayor ] stated, "Muhammad Ali belongs to the world. But he only has one hometown."<ref name="Columbian" />
			The day after Ali's death, the ] paid tribute to Ali at their ] event in a lengthy video tribute package, crediting Ali for his accomplishments and inspiring multiple UFC champions.<ref>{{cite web |last=Emery |first=Debbie |date=June 4, 2016 |title=UFC 199 Invades LA Forum, Honors Boxing Legend Muhammad Ali |url=https://www.thewrap.com/ufc-199-invades-the-la-forum-honors-boxing-legend-muhammad-ali/amp/ |access-date=January 16, 2020 |work=The Wrap |archive-date=August 5, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805080747/https://www.thewrap.com/ufc-199-invades-the-la-forum-honors-boxing-legend-muhammad-ali/amp/ }}</ref>
			===Memorial===
			{{external media | width = 210px | headerimage= | video1 = , ]<ref name="cspan memorial">{{cite web |title=Muhammad Ali Memorial Service |publisher=] |date=June 10, 2016 |url=https://www.c-span.org/video/?410916-1/memorial-service-muhammad-ali-19422016 |access-date=September 9, 2016 |archive-date=August 16, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160816190250/https://www.c-span.org/video/?410916-1/memorial-service-muhammad-ali-19422016 |url-status=live }}</ref>}}
			]
			Ali's funeral had been pre-planned by himself and others for several years prior to his actual death.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Schreiner |first1=Bruce |last2=Galofaro |first2=Claire |date=June 7, 2016 |title=Will Smith, Lennox Lewis among pallbearers for Muhammad Ali, who scripted his own funeral in final days |work=National Post |url=http://news.nationalpost.com/news/world/will-smith-lennox-lewis-among-pallbearers-for-muhammad-ali-who-scripted-his-funeral-in-his-final-days |access-date=July 31, 2016 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031225119/https://nationalpost.com/category/news/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The services began in Louisville on June 9, 2016, with an Islamic ] prayer service at ] on the grounds of the ]. The Janazah prayer was attended by Turkish President ].<ref>{{cite news |title=President Erdoğan Attends Muhammad Ali's Funeral |url=https://www.tccb.gov.tr/en/news/542/44339/president-erdogan-attends-muhammad-alis-funeral |access-date=September 14, 2022 |work=www.tccb.gov.tr |issue=Presidency of the Republic of Turkey |date=June 9, 2016 |archive-date=October 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031225132/https://www.tccb.gov.tr/en/news/542/44339/president-erdogan-attends-muhammad-alis-funeral |url-status=live }}</ref> On June 10, 2016, the funeral procession passed through the streets of Louisville ending at ], where his body was interred during a private ceremony. A public memorial service for Ali at downtown Louisville's ] was held during the afternoon of June 10.<ref>{{cite news |title=Muhammad Ali To Be Buried In Louisville Friday |url=http://wfpl.org/muhammad-ali-buried-louisville-friday/ |publisher=] |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=June 5, 2016 |archive-date=June 5, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160605072604/http://wfpl.org/muhammad-ali-buried-louisville-friday/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Muhammad Ali's funeral to be watched worldwide by billions |url=http://www.india.com/sports/muhammad-alis-funeral-to-be-watched-worldwide-by-billions-2-1238356/ |publisher=India.com |date=June 5, 2016 |access-date=June 5, 2016 |archive-date=June 9, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160609221156/http://www.india.com/sports/muhammad-alis-funeral-to-be-watched-worldwide-by-billions-2-1238356/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=June 6, 2016 |title=Muhammad Ali Islamic Funeral Prayer Service Jenazah scheduled at Freedom Hall |publisher=] |url=https://www.whas11.com/article/news/local/muhammad-ali-islamic-funeral-prayer-service-jenazah-scheduled-at-freedom-hall/417-234230429 |url-status=live |access-date=June 9, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160609165705/http://www.whas11.com/news/local/muhammad-ali-islamic-funeral-prayer-service-jenazah-scheduled-at-freedom-hall/234230429 |archive-date=June 9, 2016}}</ref> ], his wife Lonnie Ali, sports journalist ] and former President ] all gave the eulogies.<ref>{{Cite news |date=June 10, 2016 |title=In Their Own Words: Eulogies for Muhammad Ali |work=] |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/11/sports/lonnie-billy-crystal-bill-clinton-eulogies-for-muhammad-ali.html |access-date=October 23, 2023 |archive-date=February 20, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230220062027/https://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/11/sports/lonnie-billy-crystal-bill-clinton-eulogies-for-muhammad-ali.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The pallbearers included ], ] and ], with honorary pallbearers including ], ] and ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://ftw.usatoday.com/2016/06/will-smith-mike-tyson-pallbearers-muhammad-ali-funeral |title=Will Smith, Mike Tyson among those serving as pallbearers at Muhammad Ali's funeral |first=Laken |last=Litman |work=USA Today |date=June 10, 2016 |access-date=July 31, 2016 |archive-date=August 18, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160818011911/http://ftw.usatoday.com/2016/06/will-smith-mike-tyson-pallbearers-muhammad-ali-funeral |url-status=live }}</ref> Ali's memorial was watched by an estimated 1{{nbsp}}billion viewers worldwide.<ref name="alicenter" />
			{{blockquote|If the measure of greatness is to gladden the heart of every human being on the face of the earth, then he truly was the greatest. In every way he was the bravest, the kindest and the most excellent of men.|Tribute from ].<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Bob Dylan on Muhammad Ali: 'The Most Excellent of Men' |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-sports/bob-dylan-on-muhammad-ali-the-most-excellent-of-men-70657/ |access-date=April 23, 2022 |magazine=Rolling Stone |archive-date=May 18, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220518095339/https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-sports/bob-dylan-on-muhammad-ali-the-most-excellent-of-men-70657/ |url-status=live }}</ref>}}
	==Legacy==		==Legacy==
			===In boxing===
	] embraces Muhammad Ali after presenting him with the ] on November 9, 2005, during ceremonies at the White House.]]
	Muhammad Ali defeated every top heavyweight in his era, which has been called the golden age of heavyweight boxing. Ali was named "Fighter of the Year" by '']'' magazine more times than any other fighter, and was involved in more ''Ring'' "Fight of the Year" bouts than any other fighter. He was an inductee into the ] and held wins over seven other Hall of Fame inductees. He was one of only three boxers to be named "]" by ''Sports Illustrated''.		Ali remains the only three-time ]. He is the only boxer to be named ] six times and was involved in more ''Ring'' "Fight of the Year" bouts than any other fighter. He was one of only three boxers to be named "]" by ''Sports Illustrated''. He was also named ] three times.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/tv_and_radio/sports_personality_of_the_year/7659905.stm|title=Sports Personality facts and figures|publisher=BBC|date=October 9, 2008|access-date=February 1, 2023| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20081217122029/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/tv_and_radio/sports_personality_of_the_year/7659905.stm| archive-date= December 17, 2008 | url-status= live}}</ref>
			Ali was inducted into the ] in its first year<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ibhof.com/pages/about/inductees/modern/ali.html |title=Muhammad Ali |website=International Boxing Hall of Fame |access-date=December 9, 2023 |archive-date=October 17, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181017200549/http://www.ibhof.com/pages/about/inductees/modern/ali.html |url-status=live }}</ref> and held wins over seven other Hall of Fame inductees during an era that has been called the golden age of heavyweight boxing.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}} His joint records of beating ] for the world heavyweight title and winning 14 unified title bouts stood for 35 years.{{refn|group=note|These records are shared with ] and ], respectively. Both these records were eventually beaten by ].}}{{refn|group=note|Some sources claim that ] has actually defeated 22 fighters for the world heavyweight title; that would make Louis the sole holder of the eventually broken record.}}<ref>{{cite web|url=https://fakty.ua/393919-mohammed-ali-boyalsya-letat-v-samolete-80-let-nazad-rodilsya-samyj-izvestnyj-v-mire-sportsmen|title=Мохаммед Алі боявся літати: 80 років тому народився найвідоміший у світі спортсмен|publisher=]|date=January 17, 2022|access-date=April 30, 2022|language=uk|archive-date=April 30, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220430113952/https://fakty.ua/393919-mohammed-ali-boyalsya-letat-v-samolete-80-let-nazad-rodilsya-samyj-izvestnyj-v-mire-sportsmen|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://isport.ua/boxing/2589695-glavnye-sobytiya-desyatiletiya-boks|title=Главные события десятилетия: бокс|work=isport.ua|date=December 27, 2020|access-date=February 21, 2021|language=ru|archive-date=March 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210311033436/https://isport.ua/boxing/2589695-glavnye-sobytiya-desyatiletiya-boks|url-status=live}}</ref>{{Better source needed|reason=English language sources would make claims easier to verify for readers|date=December 2023}}
	In 1978, three years before Ali's permanent retirement, the ] in his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky, voted 6–5 to rename Walnut Street to Muhammad Ali Boulevard. This was controversial at the time, as within a week 12 of the 70 street signs were stolen. Earlier that year, a committee of the ] (Kentucky) considered renaming Ali's alma mater, Central High School, in his honor, but the motion failed to pass. In time, Muhammad Ali Boulevard—and Ali himself—came to be well accepted in his hometown.<ref>{{cite news |first=Bob |last=Hill |title=Ali stirs conflicting emotions in hometown |work=] |date=November 19, 2005 |page=K5}}</ref>
			===In hip-hop===
	In 1993, the Associated Press reported that Ali was tied with ] as the most recognized athlete, out of over 800 dead or living athletes, in America. The study found that over 97% of Americans over 12 years of age identified both Ali and Ruth.<ref>Wilstein, Steve, Associated Press, ; ''The Daily Gazette'', May 17, 1993.</ref> He was the recipient of the 1997 ].
			{{Poem quote
			|text=I've wrestled with alligators, I've tussled with a whale.
			I done handcuffed lightning and throw thunder in jail.
			You know I'm bad.
			Just last week, I murdered a rock, injured a stone, hospitalized a brick.
			I'm so mean, I make medicine sick.
			|sign=Muhammad Ali<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-people-ali-quotes-factbox-idUSKCN0YQ082 |title=Muhammad Ali, in his own words |work=] |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=September 17, 2023 |archive-date=October 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005182311/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-people-ali-quotes-factbox-idUSKCN0YQ082 |url-status=live }}</ref>
			}}
			Ali often used ]s and spoken word poetry when trash talking in boxing, and also delivered political poetry in his activism outside of boxing.<ref>{{cite web |date=September 26, 2012 |title=Muhammad Ali – press conference 1974 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTr-p-Y4P00 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140203151928/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTr-p-Y4P00 |archive-date=February 3, 2014 |access-date=November 5, 2013 |website=YouTube}}</ref><ref>Archived at {{cbignore}} and the {{cbignore}}: {{cite web |date=February 12, 2011 |title=Muhammad Ali – Pre Liston Poetry & Highlights |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JwPPM_vaNrI |access-date=November 5, 2013 |publisher=YouTube}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>Archived at {{cbignore}} and the {{cbignore}}: {{cite web |date=January 6, 2010 |title=Muhammad Ali Famous Interview After Defeating Foreman |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6Hey54O6Qs |access-date=November 5, 2013 |website=YouTube}}{{cbignore}}</ref> He played a role in the shaping of the black poetic tradition, paving the way for ] in 1968, ] in 1970, and the emergence of ] in the 1970s.<ref name="nytimes2">{{cite news |last=Gates |first=Henry Louis Jr. |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/09/opinion/muhammad-ali-the-political-poet.html |title=Muhammad Ali, the Political Poet |work=] |date=June 9, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=October 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026123948/https://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/09/opinion/muhammad-ali-the-political-poet.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Ali has been referred to as "the first rapper".<ref>{{cite news |title=Muhammad Ali's influence ran deep through rap's golden age |url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/musicblog/2016/jun/06/muhammad-ali-influence-rap-golden-age |work=] |date=June 6, 2016 |language=en |access-date=May 15, 2018 |archive-date=May 15, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180515185532/https://www.theguardian.com/music/musicblog/2016/jun/06/muhammad-ali-influence-rap-golden-age |url-status=live }}</ref> As a "rhyming trickster", he was noted for his boasts, "funky delivery", "comical trash talk", and "endless quotables".<ref name="rollingstone1">{{cite magazine |last=Reeves |first=Mosi |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/muhammad-ali-worlds-greatest-boxer-was-also-hip-hop-pioneer-20160604 |title=Muhammad Ali: World's Greatest Boxer Was Also Hip-Hop Pioneer |magazine=] |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=May 15, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180515184644/https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/muhammad-ali-worlds-greatest-boxer-was-also-hip-hop-pioneer-20160604 }}</ref> '']'' notes his "] skills" and his "rhymes, flow, and braggadocio" would "one day become typical of ] MCs like ] and ]", and his "outsized ego foreshadowed the vainglorious excesses of ], while his ] consciousness and cutting honesty pointed forward to modern bards like ], ], ], and ]."<ref name="rollingstone2">{{cite magazine |last=Rubin |first=Mike |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/news/muhammad-ali-4-ways-he-changed-america-20160605 |title=Muhammad Ali: 4 Ways He Changed America |magazine=Rolling Stone |date=June 5, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=May 15, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180515185135/https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/news/muhammad-ali-4-ways-he-changed-america-20160605 }}</ref>
	In 1999, '']'' magazine named Ali one of the ].<ref>{{cite news|title=Ali—Time 100 People of the Century|url=http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,26473,00.html|newspaper=]|first=Joshua|last=Quittner|date=June 14, 1999}}</ref> He was crowned ] by '']''.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/features/cover/news/1999/12/02/awards | publisher=CNN | title=Sports Illustrated honors world's greatest athletes | date=December 3, 1999}}</ref> Named ] in a ] poll, he received more votes than the other contenders (which included ], ] and ]) combined.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/561352.stm|title=Ali crowned Sportsman of Century |date=December 13, 1999|publisher=]|accessdate=June 6, 2016}}</ref> On September 13, 1999, Ali was named "Kentucky Athlete of the Century" by the Kentucky Athletic Hall of Fame in ceremonies at the Galt House East.<ref>{{cite news |first=Marc J. |last=Spears |title= Ali: The Greatest of 20th century; Show stops when the champ arrives for awards dinner |url=http://courier-journal.newspapers.com/image/110892451/?terms=Show%2Bstops%2Bwhen%2Bthe%2Bchamp%2Barrives%2Bfor%2Bawards%2Bdinner |newspaper=The Courier-Journal |date=September 14, 1999 |subscription=yes}}</ref>
			In 2006, the documentary ''Ali Rap'' was produced by ], with ] of ] as the host.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://thesource.com/2016/06/09/the-10-best-muhammad-ali-references-in-hip-hop/ |title=The 10 Best Muhammad Ali References In Hip Hop |last=Berry |first=Ben |date=June 9, 2016 |website=The Source |language=en-US |access-date=April 19, 2019 |archive-date=April 19, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190419002903/http://thesource.com/2016/06/09/the-10-best-muhammad-ali-references-in-hip-hop/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Other rappers narrated the documentary as well, including ], ] and Rakim who all spoke on Ali's behalf in the film.
	On January 8, 2001, Muhammad Ali was presented with the ] by President ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://clinton5.nara.gov/WH/new/html/Mon_Jan_8_141714_2001.html|title=President Clinton Awards the Presidential Citizens Medals|date=January 8, 2001|work=Today at The White House|publisher=National Archives and Records Administration|accessdate=June 5, 2016}}</ref> In November 2005, he received the ] from President George W. Bush,<ref>{{cite web| url=http://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/news/releases/2005/11/20051103-5.html| archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080306114811/http://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/news/releases/2005/11/20051103-5.html| archivedate=March 6, 2008 | title =Presidential Medal of Freedom Recipients |date=November 3, 2005|publisher=White House Press Secretary| accessdate=May 20, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/boxing/news/story?id=2219166|title=Bush presents Ali with Presidential Medal of Freedom|date=November 14, 2005|publisher=ESPN|accessdate=February 16, 2009}}</ref> followed by the ] of the UN Association of Germany (DGVN) in Berlin for his work with the U.S. civil rights movement and the United Nations (December 17, 2005).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.seattletimes.com/sports/briefs-ali-to-receive-otto-hahn-medal-today-in-berlin/|title=Briefs: Ali to receive Otto Hahn Medal today in Berlin|date=December 17, 2005|work=The Seattle Times|accessdate=June 5, 2016}}</ref>
			Ali has been cited as an inspiration by many celebrated rappers, throughout the following decades, such as LL Cool J,<ref name="rollingstone1" /> Chuck D,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://andscape.com/features/muhammad-ali-the-original-rapper/ |title=Muhammad Ali: The original rapper – Legendary emcee Chuck D of Public Enemy talks Ali's impact on hip-hop |website=] |date=June 9, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=July 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220702051928/https://andscape.com/features/muhammad-ali-the-original-rapper/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Jay-Z, ], ], ], Nas and ],<ref name="cbsnews">{{cite web |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/jay-z-eminem-and-more-hip-hop-luminaries-remember-muhammad-ali/ |title=Jay Z, Eminem and more hip-hop luminaries remember Muhammad Ali |work=] |date=June 9, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-date=August 12, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160812105446/http://www.cbsnews.com/news/jay-z-eminem-and-more-hip-hop-luminaries-remember-muhammad-ali/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and is frequently mentioned in popular hip-hop songs.<ref name="cbsnews" />
			===In Ali's hometown===
			In 1978, shortly after becoming heavyweight champion of the world for the third time, and three years before his permanent retirement, Ali received a round of accolades in his hometown of Louisville. In September, at a tribute ceremony held at ], then-Governor of Kentucky ] proclaimed 1978 the "Year of Ali" and presented to Ali the Governor's Distinguished Service Award. Carroll said he signed the proclamation because "no single day or week – or even month – ever could contain the deeds of this man."<ref>{{cite news |last=Aubespin |first=Mervin |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-courier-journal-muhammad-ali-receive/136552375/ |title=Louisville lets Ali know it's in his corner |date=September 22, 1978 |work=] |pages=1, 3 |via=] |access-date=December 9, 2023}}</ref> In November, the ] voted 6–5 to rename downtown thoroughfare Walnut Street to ], via an ordinance shortly signed into law by then-Mayor ].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-courier-journal-louisville-mayor-sig/136553492/ |title=Mayor signs law naming street for Ali |date=November 29, 1978 |work=] |page=A2 |via=] |access-date=December 9, 2023}}</ref> This was controversial at the time, as within a week 12 of the 70 street signs were stolen.<ref name="Hill">{{cite news |first=Bob |last=Hill |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-courier-journal-growing-acceptance-o/136541417/ |title=Ali stirs conflicting emotions in hometown |work=] |via=] |date=November 19, 2005 |page=K5 |access-date=December 9, 2023}}</ref>
	], alongside Interstate 64 on Louisville, Kentucky's riverfront]]		], alongside Interstate 64 on Louisville, Kentucky's riverfront]]
			As the street renaming was under consideration, a committee of the ] (Kentucky) considered renaming Ali's alma mater, ], in his honor. Despite an initial endorsement by then-] and current ] ], and an affirmative vote by the Jefferson County ], the committee decided not to proceed, citing long-time school tradition and alumni disagreement, even though they urged other ways to honor Ali in the community.<ref>{{cite news |last=Kaukas |first=Dick |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-courier-journal-jcps-declines-to-ren/136542679/ |title=A decision goes against Muhammad Ali |date=September 30, 1978 |work=] |page=9 |via=] |access-date=December 9, 2023}}</ref> In time, Muhammad Ali Boulevard—and Ali himself—came to be well accepted in his hometown.<ref name="Hill"/>
	On November 19, 2005 (Ali's 19th wedding anniversary), the $60{{nbsp}}million non-profit ] opened in downtown Louisville. In addition to displaying his boxing memorabilia, the center focuses on core themes of peace, social responsibility, respect, and personal growth. On June 5, 2007, he received an honorary doctorate of humanities at Princeton University's 260th graduation ceremony.<ref>{{cite news | last = Ryan | first = Joe | title = Boxing legend Ali gets Princeton degree | work=The Star-Ledger | date = June 5, 2007 | url = http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2007/06/boxing_legend_ali_gets_princet_1.html | accessdate =June 5, 2007}}</ref>
			In November 2005, Ali and his wife Lonnie Ali opened the $54{{nbsp}}million, 93,000{{nbsp}}ft<sup>2</sup>, non-profit ] in downtown Louisville.<ref name="Crouse-2016" /><ref name="Coomes">{{cite news |last=Coomes |first=Mark |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-courier-journal-cost-size-and-gener/136568781/ |title='The Greatest'; Party lifts curtain on a shining tribute to Ali |date=November 20, 2005 |work=] |page=A8 |via=] |access-date=December 9, 2023}}</ref> In addition to displaying his boxing memorabilia, the center focuses on core themes of peace, social responsibility, respect, and personal growth.<ref name="Coomes"/><ref>{{cite news |last=Shafer |first=Sheldon S. |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-courier-journal-basically-what-the-a/136568273/ |title='Center will revolve around ideas'; Memorabilia just part of mission |date=November 19, 2005 |work=] |page=K2 |via=] |access-date=December 9, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://alicenter.org/exhibits-and-events/ |title=Exhibits & Events |website=alicenter.org |date=February 17, 2023 |access-date=December 9, 2023}}</ref>
			On January 16, 2019, the Louisville Regional Airport Authority voted to change the name of the city's main airport to "]" in honor of Ali.<ref name="Ali Airport">{{Cite press release |url=http://www.flylouisville.com/wp-content/uploads/Release-Mayor-Fischer-celebrates-decision-to-rename-Louisville-airport-to-honor-Muhammad-Ali-1-16-19_FINAL_FOR_WEB.pdf |title=Mayor Fischer celebrates decision to rename Louisville airport to honor Muhammad Ali |date=January 16, 2019 |publisher=Louisville Metro Government and Louisville Regional Airport Authority |access-date=May 12, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190122044413/http://www.flylouisville.com/wp-content/uploads/Release-Mayor-Fischer-celebrates-decision-to-rename-Louisville-airport-to-honor-Muhammad-Ali-1-16-19_FINAL_FOR_WEB.pdf |archive-date=January 22, 2019 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Then-Louisville mayor Greg Fischer upon the occasion said:{{blockquote|Muhammad Ali belonged to the world, but he only had one hometown, and fortunately, that is our great city of Louisville. Muhammad became one of the most well-known people to ever walk the Earth and has left a legacy of humanitarianism and athleticism that has inspired billions of people. It important that we, as a city, further champion The Champ's legacy, and the airport renaming is a wonderful next step.<ref name="Ali Airport" />}} On June 6, 2019, the airport unveiled its new logo, featuring "Ali's silhouette, arms up and victorious, against the background of a butterfly."<ref>{{cite web |last1=Ladd |first1=Sarah |title=Louisville's renamed Muhammad Ali International Airport debuts logo |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/news/2019/06/07/louisvilles-muhammad-ali-international-airport-unveils-logo/1378182001/ |website=usatoday.com |publisher=Louisville Courier Journal |access-date=June 7, 2019 |date=June 7, 2019 |archive-date=April 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210419172909/https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/news/2019/06/07/louisvilles-muhammad-ali-international-airport-unveils-logo/1378182001/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
			===Around the US and world===
			Martial artist and actor ] was influenced by Ali, whose ] he studied and incorporated into his own style while developing ] in the 1960s.<ref>{{cite book |editor-last1=Vaughn |editor-first1=Jack |editor-last2=Lee |editor-first2=Mike |title=The Legendary Bruce Lee |date=1986 |publisher=] |isbn=978-0-89750-106-4 |page=127 |url={{GBurl|id=D8d_YjWV9k4C|p=127}}}}</ref>
			Opened in 1976, ], located in ], Quezon City, Philippines, is named after Ali. Construction of the mall, the first of its kind in the Philippines, began shortly after his victory in a match with Joe Frazier in nearby ] in 1975. Ali attended its opening.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.aranetacenter.net/2008/archiveAlimallComeback.php |title=Ali Mall: First Ever Shopping Mall Makes A Comeback |publisher=] |access-date=September 4, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160902164449/http://www.aranetacenter.net/2008/archiveAlimallComeback.php |archive-date=September 2, 2016}}</ref> The ] fight the same year played an important role in the history of ].<ref>{{cite book |last=Gross |first=Josh |title=Ali vs. Inoki: The Forgotten Fight That Inspired Mixed Martial Arts and Launched Sports Entertainment |date=2016 |publisher=] |isbn=978-1-942952-19-0 |url={{GBurl|id=GPCGDAAAQBAJ}} |language=en}}</ref> In Japan, the match inspired Inoki's students ] and ] to found ] in 1993, which in turn inspired the foundation of ] in 1997. Pride was acquired by its rival, ], in 2007.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/2016/06/what-role-did-boxer-muhammad-ali-play-in-early-mma-let-ali-vs-inoki-author-josh-gross-explain |title=What role did boxer Muhammad Ali play in early MMA? Let 'Ali vs. Inoki' author Josh Gross explain |work=] |date=June 13, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2013/5/2/4220042/ufc-mma-history-origins-pride-fc-rickson-gracie-Nobuhiko-Takada |title=MMA Origins: Fighting For Pride |website=BloodyElbow |last=Grant |first=T. P. |date=May 2, 2013 |access-date=September 4, 2016}}</ref>
			] embraces Ali after presenting him with the ] in 2005, during ceremonies at the White House.]]
			Ali was the recipient of the 1997 ].<ref>{{cite news|first=Emily Mae|last=Czachor|title=Celebrating 25 years, the ESPYs have become more than a sports awards show|url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/la-et-st-ahead-of-its-25th-anniversary-the-espys-look-back-20170711-story.html|newspaper=Los Angeles Times|date=July 13, 2017|access-date=September 10, 2023|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171014235008/http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/la-et-st-ahead-of-its-25th-anniversary-the-espys-look-back-20170711-story.html|archive-date=October 14, 2017}}</ref> He was presented with the ] by President ] in January 2001<ref>{{cite web |url=http://clinton5.nara.gov/WH/new/html/Mon_Jan_8_141714_2001.html |title=President Clinton Awards the Presidential Citizens Medals |date=January 8, 2001 |work=Today at The White House |publisher=National Archives and Records Administration |access-date=June 5, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120801215612/http://clinton5.nara.gov/WH/new/html/Mon_Jan_8_141714_2001.html|archive-date=August 1, 2012}}</ref> and with the ] by President ] in November 2005.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/news/releases/2005/11/20051103-5.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080306114811/http://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/news/releases/2005/11/20051103-5.html |archive-date=March 6, 2008 |title=Presidential Medal of Freedom Recipients |date=November 3, 2005 |publisher=White House Press Secretary |access-date=May 20, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.espn.com/sports/boxing/news/story?id=2219166 |title=Bush presents Ali with Presidential Medal of Freedom |date=November 14, 2005 |work=ESPN |access-date=February 16, 2009}}</ref> For his work with the civil rights movement and the United Nations, he received the ] from the ] (DGVN) in Berlin in December 2005.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.seattletimes.com/sports/briefs-ali-to-receive-otto-hahn-medal-today-in-berlin/ |title=Briefs: Ali to receive Otto Hahn Medal today in Berlin |date=December 17, 2005 |work=The Seattle Times |access-date=June 5, 2016}}</ref>
			The ] was introduced in 1999 and passed in 2000, to protect the rights and welfare of boxers in the United States. In May 2016, a bill was introduced to ] by ], a politician and former ] fighter, to extend the Ali Act to ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2016/6/12/11911444/click-debate-whats-all-this-talk-about-the-ali-act-coming-to-mma |title=Click Debate: What's all this talk about the Ali Act coming to MMA? |website=] |last=Raimondi |first=Marc |date=June 12, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016}}</ref> In June 2016, US senator ] proposed an amendment to the ] named after Ali, a proposal to eliminate the ].<ref>{{cite news |last=Klimas |first=Jacqueline |url=http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/rand-pauls-amendment-to-knock-out-the-draft-named-after-muhammad-ali/article/2593175 |title=Rand Paul's amendment to knock out the draft named after Muhammad Ali |work=] |date=June 7, 2016 |access-date=September 4, 2016}}</ref>
			In June 2007, Ali received an honorary doctorate of humanities at ]'s 260th graduation ceremony.<ref>{{cite news |last=Ryan |first=Joe |title=Boxing legend Ali gets Princeton degree |work=The Star-Ledger |date=June 5, 2007 |url=http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2007/06/boxing_legend_ali_gets_princet_1.html |access-date=June 5, 2007}}</ref>
	], located in ], Quezon City, Philippines, is named after him. Construction of the mall, the first of its kind in the Philippines, began shortly after Ali's victory in a match with Joe Frazier in nearby ] in 1975. The mall opened in 1976 with Ali attending its opening.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.aranetacenter.net/2008/archiveAlimallComeback.php |title=Ali Mall: First Ever Shopping Mall Makes A Comeback |publisher=] |accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref>
			In 2015, '']'' renamed its Sportsman Legacy Award to the ''Sports Illustrated''{{'s}} Muhammad Ali Legacy Award. The annual award was originally created in 2008 and honors former "sports figures who embody the ideals of sportsmanship, leadership and philanthropy as vehicles for changing the world". Ali first appeared on the magazine's cover in 1963 and went on to be featured on numerous covers during his storied career.<ref name="q456">{{cite magazine | title=SI dedicates Sportsman Legacy Award to Ali | magazine=Sports Illustrated | date=September 25, 2015 | url=https://www.si.com/boxing/2015/09/25/sports-illustrated-sportsman-year-legacy-award-renamed-for-muhammad-ali | access-date=September 16, 2024}}</ref>
	The 1976 ] fight played a role in the history of ], particularly in ]. The match inspired Inoki's students ] and ] to found ] in 1993, which in turn inspired the foundation of ] in 1997. Pride was later acquired by its rival ] in 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2016/06/what-role-did-boxer-muhammad-ali-play-in-early-mma-let-ali-vs-inoki-author-josh-gross-explain|title=What role did boxer Muhammad Ali play in early MMA? Let 'Ali vs. Inoki' author Josh Gross explain|work=]|date=June 13, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2013/5/2/4220042/ufc-mma-history-origins-pride-fc-rickson-gracie-Nobuhiko-Takada|title=MMA Origins: Fighting For Pride|website=BloodyElbow|last=Grant|first=T. P.|date=May 2, 2013|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref>
			The ] created the Muhammad Ali Voice of Humanity Honor in 2016, which is presented at its annual Voice Arts Awards. The award was created in collaboration with the Muhammad Ali Center and is presented to "an individual whose voice, through humanitarianism, activism or personal sacrifice, has made a decidedly positive impact on our national or global condition as a society". Sculptor Marc Mellon created the bronze sculpture for the award, which depicts Ali mid-speech.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.voiceoverxtra.com/article.htm?id=3KN27BCK|title=Muhammad Ali & Challenge To 'Do Great Things' Will Be Honored At Voice Arts® Awards Gala|website=Voice-Over Xtra!|date=August 12, 2016|access-date=June 21, 2023}}</ref> Recipients of the honor include Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Ken Burns, Vance Jones, Lonnie Ali, Stacey Abrams, Wes Studi, and Manuela Testolini.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://sovas.org/winners-and-nominees/|title=Winners and Nominees|website=]|access-date=June 21, 2023}}</ref>
	The ] was introduced in 1999 and passed in 2000, to protect the rights and welfare of boxers in the United States. In May 2016, a bill was introduced to ] by ], a politician and former ] fighter, to extend the Ali Act to ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2016/6/12/11911444/click-debate-whats-all-this-talk-about-the-ali-act-coming-to-mma|title=Click Debate: What's all this talk about the Ali Act coming to MMA?|website=]|last=Raimondi|first=Marc|date=June 12, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref> In June 2016, US senator ] proposed an amendment to the ] named after Ali, a proposal to eliminate the ].<ref>{{cite news|last=Klimas|first=Jacqueline|url=http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/rand-pauls-amendment-to-knock-out-the-draft-named-after-muhammad-ali/article/2593175|title=Rand Paul's amendment to knock out the draft named after Muhammad Ali|work=]|date=June 7, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref>
			In January 2017, the Muhammad Ali Commemorative Coin Act was introduced into the ] but was not enacted.<ref>{{cite web |title=H.R. 579 (115th): Muhammad Ali Commemorative Coin Act |url=https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/115/hr579 |website=Govtrack |access-date=May 1, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://coinweek.com/modern-coins/boxing-legend-muhammad-ali-commemorative-coin-bill-introduced/ |title=Boxing Legend Muhammad Ali Commemorative Coin Bill Introduced |website=CoinWeek |last=Walker |first=Hubert |date=January 23, 2017 |access-date=February 2, 2020}}</ref>
	===Ranking in boxing history===
	Ali is regarded as one of the greatest boxers of all time by boxing commentators and historians. '']'', a prominent boxing magazine, named him number 1 in a 1998 ranking of greatest heavyweights from all eras.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.boxinginsider.com/columns/was-ali-the-greatest-heavyweight/ |title=Was Ali the Greatest Heavyweight? |publisher=Boxinginsider.com |last=Donelson |first=Tom |accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref> ] voted Ali the No. 1 heavyweight of the 20th century in 1999.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://static.espn.go.com/boxing/news/1999/1208/221260.html|title=AP Fighters of the Century list|accessdate=February 12, 2012}}</ref> In December 2007, ] listed Ali second in its choice of the greatest heavyweights of all time, behind ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000R7HY5K |title=ESPN Classic Ringside: Top 10 Heavyweights |publisher=Amazon.com |accessdate=January 29, 2012}}</ref> Ali was named the second greatest ] fighter in boxing history by ESPN, behind only welterweight and middleweight great ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://espn.go.com/boxing/fnf/981202topten.html|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080107172258/http://espn.go.com/boxing/fnf/981202topten.html|archivedate=January 7, 2008 |title=Sugar Ray Robinson wins split decision from Ali |publisher=ESPN |date=September 6, 1999 |accessdate=April 26, 2009}}</ref>
			===20th-century superlatives===
	===Spoken word poetry and music===
			By the end of the 20th century, Ali had made it onto several ] or otherwise was mentioned in superlative terms covering the century or a large portion thereof.
	Ali often used ]s and spoken word ], both for when he was trash talking in boxing and as political poetry for his activism outside of boxing. He played a role in the shaping of the black poetic tradition, paving the way for ] in 1968, ] in 1970, and the emergence of ] in the 1970s.<ref name="nytimes2">{{cite news|last=Gates|first=Henry Louis Jr.|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/09/opinion/muhammad-ali-the-political-poet.html|title=Muhammad Ali, the Political Poet|work=]|date=June 9, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref>
			Ali was ranked at or near the top of most lists of the 20th century's greatest boxers.<ref>{{cite news |date=January 20, 2012 |title=Muhammad Ali |work=ESPN |url=https://www.espn.com/sports/boxing/topics/_/page/muhammad-ali |access-date=January 29, 2012}}</ref><ref name="ring">{{cite web |last=Donelson |first=Tom |date=July 14, 2008 |title=Was Ali the Greatest Heavyweight? |url=http://www.boxinginsider.com/columns/was-ali-the-greatest-heavyweight/ |access-date=September 4, 2016 |publisher=Boxinginsider.com}}</ref><ref name="ap" /> He was crowned ] by '']''.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/features/cover/news/1999/12/02/awards |work=CNN|title=Sports Illustrated honors world's greatest athletes |date=December 3, 1999 |access-date=June 5, 2016 |archive-date=August 19, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110819000437/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/features/cover/news/1999/12/02/awards/ }}</ref> Named ], he received more votes than the other five candidates combined.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/561352.stm |title=Ali crowned Sportsman of Century |date=December 13, 1999 |work=] |access-date=June 6, 2016}}</ref><ref name="ring"/> The Associated Press ranked him as the second best boxer and best heavyweight of the 20th century.<ref name="ap">{{cite web |title=AP Fighters of the Century list |url=http://static.espn.go.com/boxing/news/1999/1208/221260.html |access-date=February 12, 2012}}</ref> He was named Athlete of the Century by '']'', and ranked as the third ]. Ali was named "Kentucky Athlete of the Century" by the ] in ceremonies at the ].<ref>{{cite news |first=Marc J. |last=Spears |title=Ali: The Greatest of 20th century; Show stops when the champ arrives for awards dinner |url=http://courier-journal.newspapers.com/image/110892451/?terms=Show%2Bstops%2Bwhen%2Bthe%2Bchamp%2Barrives%2Bfor%2Bawards%2Bdinner |newspaper=The Courier-Journal |date=September 14, 1999 |url-access=subscription}}</ref>
	In 1963, Ali released an album of ] music on Columbia Records titled '']'', and in 1964, he recorded a ] of the ] song "]".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rTlN6pU01K0 |title=Song ''Stand By Me'', recorded in 1964 by Muhammad Ali, then known as Cassius Clay |publisher=YouTube |date=December 13, 2008 |accessdate=February 20, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.secondhandsongs.com/performance/80810 |title=Different versions of 'Stand By Me' |publisher=Secondhandsongs.com |accessdate=February 20, 2013}}</ref> ''I Am the Greatest'' reached number 61 on the album chart and was nominated for a ]. He later received a second Grammy nomination, for "Best Recording for Children", with his 1976 spoken word novelty record, ''The Adventures of Ali and His Gang vs. Mr. Tooth Decay''.<ref name="rollingstone2"/>
			Ali was named one of the 100 most influential Americans of the 20th century by ] in 1990. In 1993, the Associated Press reported that Ali was tied with ] as the most recognized athlete, out of over 800 dead or living athletes, in America. The study found that over 97% of Americans over 12 years of age identified both Ali and Ruth.<ref>Wilstein, Steve, Associated Press, ; ''The Daily Gazette'', May 17, 1993.</ref> In 1999, he was one of three athletes, alongside ] and ], named in '']'' magazine's list of the ].<ref>{{cite news |title=Ali – Time 100 People of the Century |url=http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,26473,00.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010211124411/http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,26473,00.html |archive-date=February 11, 2001 |newspaper=] |first=Joshua |last=Quittner |date=June 14, 1999}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |title=TIME 100 Persons of The Century |url=https://content.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,26473,00.html |access-date=September 10, 2023 |magazine=Time |archive-date=December 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221220085203/https://content.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,26473,00.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>
	Ali was an influential figure in the world of ]. As a "rhyming trickster", he was noted for his "funky delivery", "boasts", "comical trash talk", and "endless quotables".<ref name="rollingstone1">{{cite journal|last=Reeves|first=Mosi|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/muhammad-ali-worlds-greatest-boxer-was-also-hip-hop-pioneer-20160604|title=Muhammad Ali: World's Greatest Boxer Was Also Hip-Hop Pioneer|journal=]|date=June 4, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref> According to '']'', his "] skills" and his "rhymes, flow, and braggadocio" would "one day become typical of ] MCs" like ] and ], and his "outsized ego foreshadowed the vainglorious excesses of ], while his ] consciousness and cutting honesty pointed forward to modern bards like ], ], ], and ]."<ref name="rollingstone2">{{cite journal|last=Rubin|first=Mike|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/culture/news/muhammad-ali-4-ways-he-changed-america-20160605|title=Muhammad Ali: 4 Ways He Changed America|journal=Rolling Stone|date=June 5, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref> Ali has been cited as an inspiration by rappers such as LL Cool J,<ref name="rollingstone1"/> ]'s ],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://theundefeated.com/features/muhammad-ali-the-original-rapper/|title=Muhammad Ali: The original rapper – Legendary emcee Chuck D of Public Enemy talks Ali's impact on hip-hop|website=The Undefeated|date=June 9, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref> Jay-Z, ], ], ], Nas and ].<ref name="cbsnews">{{cite web|url=http://www.cbsnews.com/news/jay-z-eminem-and-more-hip-hop-luminaries-remember-muhammad-ali/|title=Jay Z, Eminem and more hip-hop luminaries remember Muhammad Ali|publisher=]|date=June 9, 2016|accessdate=September 4, 2016}}</ref> Ali has been referenced in a number of hip hop songs, including ]'s "]", the ]' "]", ]'s "You're a Customer" and ]'s "]".<ref name="cbsnews"/>
	===In the media and popular culture===		==In media and popular culture==
	{{Main article|Muhammad Ali in media and popular culture}}		{{Main|Muhammad Ali in media and popular culture}}
	<!-- Please see the sub-article before adding new works here. Anything here should be important and notable; don't just add any random article about Ali here. Thank you. -->		<!-- Please see the sub-article before adding new works here. Anything here should be important and notable; don't just add any random article about Ali here. Thank you. -->
			As a world champion boxer, social activist, heartthrob and pop culture icon, Ali was the subject of numerous creative works including books, films, music, video games, TV shows, and other. Muhammad Ali was often dubbed the world's "most famous" person in the media.<ref>{{cite news |last=Lassiter |first=Jim |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-daily-oklahoman-muhammad-ali-referre/134556398/ |title=Jones' Decision to Fight May Be Too Tall an Order |work=] |date=June 29, 1979 |access-date=November 3, 2023 |via=]}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=The Most Famous Person Ever |url=https://blogs.voanews.com/us-opinion/2016/06/06/the-most-famous-person-ever/ |work=] |date=June 6, 2016 |language=en}}</ref> Several of his fights were watched by an estimated ] between 1974 and 1980, and his lighting of the torch at the 1996 ] was watched by an estimated 3.5{{nbsp}}billion viewers.<ref name="Hajeski" />
	As a world champion boxer, social activist, and pop cuture icon, Ali was the subject of numerous books, films, music, video games, TV shows, and other creative works.
	]]]		]]]
			Ali appeared on the cover of '']'' on 38 different occasions,<ref>{{cite web |title=Muhammad Ali Covers |url=https://www.si.com/vault/search/covers?q=muhammad%20ali |website=Sports Illustrated Vault |publisher=Sports Illustrated |access-date=December 22, 2019 |archive-date=February 11, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200211170202/https://www.si.com/vault/search/covers?q=muhammad%20ali }}</ref> second only to ]'s 50.<ref>{{cite news |last=Beslic |first=Stephen |title=On this date: Michael Jordan appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated for the fourth time |url=https://www.si.com/nba/bulls/news/on-this-date-michael-jordan-made-the-cover-of-sports-illustrated-for-the-4th-time |work=] |publisher=Sports Illustrated |date=November 17, 2022 |access-date=November 3, 2023}}</ref> He also appeared on the cover of '']'' magazine 5 times.<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Reilly |first=Katie |url=https://time.com/4357508/muhammad-ali-time-cover-philippe-halsman/ |title=Behind TIME's New Muhammad Ali Cover |date=June 4, 2016 |magazine=Time |access-date=November 3, 2023 |quote=Ali—who has been featured on the cover of TIME four times (before this time)—first appeared on the cover in the issue published March 22, 1963, when his name was still Cassius Clay.}}</ref> In 2015, ] found that Ali was one of the three most recognizable athletes in the United States, along with Michael Jordan and ].<ref>{{cite news |last=Rovell |first=Darren |title=Michael Jordan remains top-ranked athlete in history by Harris Poll |url=http://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/14470482/michael-jordan-jordan-stays-atop-harris-poll-ahead-babe-ruth-muhamad-ali |work=] |date=December 31, 2015 |access-date=November 3, 2023}}</ref>
	Ali appeared on the cover of '']'' on 37 different occasions, second only to ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dtmagazine.com/magazineofweek9282006.html |title=Magazine of the Week (September 28, 2006): Sports Illustrated November 28, 1983 |publisher=Dtmagazine.com |accessdate=January 29, 2012}}</ref>{{Update inline|reason=What is the current number, based on a recent reliable source?|?=yes|date=July 2016}} He also appeared on the cover of ] 5 times, the most of any athlete.{{citation needed|date=July 2016}}
			On the set of ''Freedom Road'' Ali met Canadian singer-songwriter Michel,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.timeout.com/london/music/meet-the-busker-who-worked-as-muhammad-alis-personal-musician |title=Meet the London busker who worked as Muhammad Ali's personal musician |last=Smith |first=Amy |date=June 9, 2016 |work=Time Out |access-date=June 12, 2016}}</ref> and subsequently helped create Michel's album ''The First Flight of the Gizzelda Dragon'' and an unaired television special featuring them both.<ref>{{cite news |author1=Michel |title=Experience: Muhammad Ali was my mentor |url=https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2014/jan/04/experience-muhammad-ali-mentor |access-date=June 11, 2016 |work=] |date=January 4, 2014}}</ref>
	Ali had a cameo role in the 1962 film version of '']'', and during his exile, he starred in the short-lived Broadway musical, ''Buck White'' (1969).
			], London]]
	Ali appeared in the documentary film '']'' (1972) riding both a horse and a bull. His autobiography '']'', written with Richard Durham, was published in 1975.<ref name=cp>{{cite book| last1 = Ali|first1 = Muhammad | last2 = Durham| first2 = Richard| title = The Greatest: My Own Story| url = https://books.google.com/books?id=EkfhAAAAMAAJ| date = October 1975| publisher = Random House| location = New York| isbn = 978-0-394-46268-4| oclc = 1622063 }}</ref> In 1977 the book was adapted into a film called '']'', in which Ali played himself and ] played ].
			Ali was the subject of the British television program '']'' in 1978 when he was surprised by ].<ref>{{cite news |last=Anthony |first=Andrew |title=A special relationship: how the British took Ali to their hearts |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2016/jun/04/how-the-british-took-muhammad-ali-to-their-hearts |date=June 4, 2016 |access-date=November 3, 2023 |work=The Guardian}}</ref> Ali was featured in '']'', a 1978 DC Comics comic book pitting the champ against the superhero. In 1979, Ali guest starred as himself in an episode of the NBC sitcom '']''. The show's title itself was inspired by the quote "Different strokes for different folks" popularized in 1966 by Ali, who also inspired the title of the 1967 ] song "Different Strokes", one of the most ] songs in pop music history.<ref>{{cite news |title=10 things you never knew about 'Diff'rent Strokes' |url=https://www.metv.com/lists/10-things-you-never-knew-about-diffrent-strokes |work=] |date=February 6, 2018}}</ref>
			He also wrote several bestselling books about his career, including '']'' and '']''. The Muhammad Ali effect, named after Ali, is a term that came into use in psychology in the 1980s, as he stated in ''The Greatest: My Own Story'': "I only said I was the greatest, not the smartest."<ref name=cp /> According to this effect, when people are asked to rate their intelligence and moral behavior in comparison to others, people will rate themselves as more moral, but not more intelligent than others.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Allison |first1=Scott T. |last2=Messick |first2=David M. |last3=Goethals |first3=George R. |title=On Being Better but not Smarter than Others: The Muhammad Ali Effect |journal=Social Cognition |year=1989 |volume=7 |issue=3 |pages=275–295 |doi=10.1521/soco.1989.7.3.275 }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last=Van Lange |first=P. A. M. |title=Being Better but Not Smarter than Others: The Muhammad Ali Effect at Work in Interpersonal Situations |journal=Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin |date=December 1, 1991 |volume=17 |issue=6 |pages=689–693 |doi=10.1177/0146167291176012 |s2cid=146176950 |url=https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/957e/607474ac85f23806f1f9db92a23df4bf218d.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200218205534/https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/957e/607474ac85f23806f1f9db92a23df4bf218d.pdf |archive-date=February 18, 2020 }}</ref> Ali cooperated with Thomas Hauser on a biography, '']''. The oral history was released in 1991.
	The film '']'', made in 1978, features Muhammad Ali in a rare acting role as Gideon Jackson, a former slave and Union (American Civil War) soldier in 1870s Virginia, who gets elected to the U.S. Senate and battles other former slaves and white sharecroppers to keep the land they have tended all their lives.
			'']'', a 1996 documentary about the ''Rumble in the Jungle'', won the ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0118147/ |title=''When We Were Kings (1996)'' |publisher=] }}</ref> The 2001 biopic '']'' garnered a ] Oscar nomination for ] for his portrayal of Ali.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0248667/ |title=''Ali (2001)'' |publisher=] }}</ref> Prior to making the film, Smith rejected the role until Ali requested that he accept it. Smith said the first thing Ali told him was: "Man, you're almost pretty enough to play me."<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/1719162.stm |title=Film, Will Smith peaks as Ali |work=BBC News |date=December 25, 2001 |access-date=December 5, 2010}}</ref>
	On the set of ''Freedom Road'' Ali met Canadian singer-songwriter Michel (also known as Robert Williams, a co-founder of ]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.timeout.com/london/music/meet-the-busker-who-worked-as-muhammad-alis-personal-musician |title=Meet the London busker who worked as Muhammad Ali's personal musician |last=Smith |first=Amy |date=June 9, 2016 |work=Time Out |access-date=June 12, 2016}}</ref>), and subsequently helped create Michel's album entitled ''The First Flight of the Gizzelda Dragon'' and an unaired television special featuring them both.<ref>{{cite news|author1=Michel|title=Experience: Muhammad Ali was my mentor|url=https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2014/jan/04/experience-muhammad-ali-mentor|accessdate=June 11, 2016|work=]|date=January 4, 2014}}</ref>
			In 2002, Ali was honored with a star on the ] for his contributions to the entertainment industry.<ref name="HWOFDB">{{cite web |url=http://hwof.com/star/live-theatre/muhammad-ali/2435 |title=Hollywood Walk of Fame database |publisher=HWOF.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100701010558/http://hwof.com/star/live-theatre/muhammad-ali/2435 |archive-date=July 1, 2010}}</ref> His star is the only one to be mounted on a vertical surface, out of deference to his request that the name Muhammad—a name he shares with ]—not be walked upon.<ref name="Jet111">{{cite magazine |last=Christian |first=Margena A. |title=How Do You Really Get A Star On The Hollywood Walk Of Fame? |magazine=Jet |volume=111 |issue=15 |date=April 16, 2007 |pages=25, 29 |url={{GBurl|id=BjsDAAAAMBAJ|p=29}} |access-date=October 12, 2010 |via=Google Books}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |title=A Star for the Greatest |magazine=Jet |volume=101 |issue=6 |page=52 |date=January 28, 2002 |url={{GBurl|id=2LQDAAAAMBAJ|p=52}} |access-date=September 22, 2010 |via=Google Books}}</ref>
	Ali was the subject of '']'' (UK TV series) in 1978 when he was surprised by ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bigredbook.info/muhammad_ali.html |title=Muhammad Ali's appearance on This Is Your Life |website=Big Red Book – Celebrating television's This Is Your Life|accessdate=January 11, 2016}}</ref> Ali was featured in '']'', a 1978 DC Comics comic book pitting the champ against the superhero. In 1979, Ali guest-starred as himself in an episode of the NBC sitcom '']''.
			His 1966 fight against ] was the subject of the 2003 documentary film '']''.<ref name=pevere>], "Chuvalo's finest hour packs a punch". '']'', October 31, 2003.</ref> A decade later, '']'', a documentary directed by ] that focuses on Ali's refusal of the ] during the ], opened in Manhattan in August 2013.<ref name="Rapold" /><ref name=TrialsDocu>{{cite web |title=The Trials of Muhammad Ali |url=http://kartemquin.com/films/the-trials-of-muhammad-ali |publisher=Kartemquin Educational Films |access-date=August 26, 2013 |archive-date=June 4, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160604213857/http://www.kartemquin.com/films/the-trials-of-muhammad-ali }}</ref> A 2013 made-for-TV movie titled '']'' dramatized the same aspect of Ali's life.
	He also wrote several best-selling books about his career, including '']'' and '']''. The Muhammad Ali Effect, named after Ali, is a term that came into use in psychology in the 1980s, as he stated in his autobiography '']'': "I only said I was the greatest, not the smartest."<ref name=cp /> According to this effect, when people are asked to rate their intelligence and moral behavior in comparison to others, people will rate themselves as more moral, but not more intelligent than others.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Allison |first1=Scott T.|last2=Messick|first2=David M.|last3=Goethals|first3=George R.|title=On Being Better but not Smarter than Others: The Muhammad Ali Effect|journal=Social Cognition|year=1989|volume=7|issue=3 |pages=275–295|doi=10.1521/soco.1989.7.3.275|ref=harv}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|last=Van Lange|first=P. A. M. |title=Being Better but Not Smarter than Others: The Muhammad Ali Effect at Work in Interpersonal Situations |journal=Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin |date=December 1, 1991 |volume=17|issue=6|pages=689–693 |doi=10.1177/0146167291176012|ref=harv}}</ref>
			]'s documentary '']'' was released in 2019. Then in September 2021, documentary filmmaker ] released the four-part docuseries '']'', spanning over eight hours on Ali's life. The series, which Burns began developing in early 2016, was broadcast on ].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Muhammad Ali |url=https://kenburns.com/films/ali/|access-date=September 2, 2020 |website=Ken Burns |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last1=Acevedo |first1=Yoselin |date=March 29, 2017 |title=Ken Burns' Next Documentary Will Profile Muhammad Ali |url=https://www.indiewire.com/2017/03/ken-burns-muhammad-ali-documentary-pbs-sarah-burns-david-mcmahon-1201798210/|access-date=September 27, 2020 |website=IndieWire |language=en}}</ref> ], who watched an 8-hour rough cut of this documentary, called it "utterly outstanding" and said "the footage they found will blow minds".<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Zirin |first=Dave |user=EdgeofSports |number=1290670168729882625 |date=August 4, 2020 |title=OK – just finished watching the eight hour rough cut of Ken Burns' forthcoming documentary about Muhammad Ali. It is utterly outstanding. Not sure when it will be released, but the footage they found will blow minds and the great Ali will come alive for a new generation. https://t.co/KnizgnK07H |language=en |access-date=December 31, 2020}}</ref>
	'']'', a 1996 documentary about the Rumble in the Jungle, won an ],<ref>{{IMDb title|0118147|When We Were Kings (1996)}}</ref> and the 2001 biopic '']'' garnered an Oscar nomination for ]'s portrayal of the lead role.<ref>{{IMDb title|0248667|Ali (2001)}}.</ref> The latter film was directed by ], with mixed reviews, the positives given to Smith's portrayal of Ali. Prior to making the film, Smith rejected the role until Ali requested that he accept it. Smith said the first thing Ali told him was: "Man you're almost pretty enough to play me."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/1719162.stm |title=FILM , Will Smith peaks as Ali |publisher=BBC News |date=December 25, 2001 |accessdate=December 5, 2010}}</ref>
			In spring 2025, the officially authorized musical '']'', based on Ali's life, will be debuting. Originally expected to debut at ] in Ali's hometown of Louisville, it will instead have its premiere at the ] in Chicago, before later moving on to ]. The musical is being directed and written by ], deputy artistic director of London's ], and scored by ]'s music director and conductor ]. Rapper and record producer ] has joined the production as music director and co-lyricist, along with ] as choreographers.<ref>{{cite news |last=Adams |first=Kirby |url=https://www.courier-journal.com/story/entertainment/theater/2023/07/13/broadway-bound-musical-ali-will-highlight-the-life-of-muhammad-ali/70406863007/ |title=Musical based off life of Muhammad Ali, with music by Teddy Abrams, is Broadway bound |work=] |date=July 13, 2023 |access-date=December 3, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Bamigboye |first=Baz |url=https://deadline.com/2023/04/muhammad-ali-musical-world-premiere-louisville-kentucky-broadway-1235328333/ |title='Ali' Musical Heads To Boxing Icon's Louisville Birthplace For Pre-Broadway World Premiere |work=] |date=April 18, 2023 |access-date=December 3, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Putnam |first=Leah |url=https://playbill.com/article/world-premiere-ali-musical-to-debut-in-muhammad-alis-hometown-of-louisville-kentucky |title=World Premiere Ali Musical to Debut in Muhammad Ali's Hometown of Louisville, Kentucky |work=] |date=April 18, 2023 |access-date=December 3, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=https://variety.com/2023/music/news/q-tip-muhammad-ali-musical-music-producer-co-lyricist-1235768180/ |title=Q-Tip Joins Muhammad Ali Musical 'Ali' as Music Producer and Co-Lyricist |magazine=] |date=October 25, 2023 |access-date=December 3, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Jones |first=Chris |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2024/07/10/ali-will-premiere-in-chicago-a-broadway-bound-musical-about-muhammad-ali/ |title='Ali' will premiere in Chicago, a Broadway-bound musical about Muhammad Ali |date=July 10, 2024 |work=] |access-date=September 26, 2024}}</ref>
	In 2002, for his contributions to the entertainment industry, Ali was honored with a star on the ] at 6801 ].<ref name="HWOFDB">{{cite web|url=http://hwof.com/star/live-theatre/muhammad-ali/2435 |title=Hollywood Walk of Fame database |publisher=HWOF.com |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100701010558/http://hwof.com/star/live-theatre/muhammad-ali/2435 |archivedate=July 1, 2010 }}</ref> His star is the only one to be mounted on a vertical surface, out of deference to his request that his name not be walked upon.<ref name="Jet111">{{cite magazine|last=Christian|first=Margena A.|title=How Do You Really Get A Star On The Hollywood Walk Of Fame? |work=Jet |volume=111 |issue=15 |date=April 16, 2007 |pages=25, 29 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=BjsDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA29#v=onepage&q&f=false |accessdate=October 12, 2010 |via=Google Books}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |title=A Star for the Greatest |work=Jet |volume=101 |issue=6 |page=52 |date=January 28, 2002 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2LQDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA52#v=onepage&q&f=false |accessdate=September 22, 2010 |via=Google Books}}</ref>
	'']'', a documentary directed by Bill Siegel that focuses on Ali's refusal of the draft during the Vietnam War, opened in Manhattan on August 23, 2013.<ref name="Rapold" /><ref name=TrialsDocu>{{cite web|title=The Trials of Muhammad Ali|url=http://kartemquin.com/films/the-trials-of-muhammad-ali|publisher=Kartemquin Educational Films|accessdate=August 26, 2013}}</ref> A made-for-TV movie called '']'', also in 2013, dramatized the same aspect of Ali's life.
	==Professional boxing record==		==Professional boxing record==
			{{Main|Professional boxing record of Muhammad Ali}}
	{{BoxingRecordSummary
			{{Boxing record summary
	|ko-wins=37		|ko-wins=37
	|ko-losses=1		|ko-losses=1
Line 520:		Line 669:
	|dec-losses=4		|dec-losses=4
	}}		}}
	{|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center; font-size:95%"		{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center"
	|-		|-
	!{{abbr|No.|Number}}		!{{abbr|No.|Number}}
Line 536:		Line 685:
	|{{no2}}Loss		|{{no2}}Loss
	|56–5		|56–5
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|CAN}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|10		|10
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1981|12|11}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1981|12|11}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|BAH}} {{small|Queen Elizabeth Sports Centre, ], Bahamas}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Queen Elizabeth Sports Centre, ], Bahamas}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 547:		Line 696:
	|{{no2}}Loss		|{{no2}}Loss
	|56–4		|56–4
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|RTD		|RTD
	|10 (15), {{small|3:00}}		|10 (15), {{small|3:00}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1980|10|02}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1980|10|02}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], ], U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|For WBC, vacant ''The Ring'' and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|For WBC and vacant ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|59		|59
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|56–3		|56–3
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|15		|15
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1978|9|15}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1978|9|15}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], ], U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], Louisiana, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won WBA, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won WBA and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|58		|58
	|{{no2}}Loss		|{{no2}}Loss
	|55–3		|55–3
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|SD		|SD
	|15		|15
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1978|2|15}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1978|2|15}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], Winchester, Nevada, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], Winchester, Nevada, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Lost WBA, WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Lost WBA, WBC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|57		|57
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|55–2		|55–2
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|15		|15
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1977|9|29}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1977|9|29}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], New York City, New York, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|56		|56
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|54–2		|54–2
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|URU}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|15		|15
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1977|5|16}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1977|5|16}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Capital Centre, Landover, Maryland, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Capital Centre, Landover, Maryland, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|55		|55
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|53–2		|53–2
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|15		|15
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1976|9|28}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1976|9|28}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], New York City, New York, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], New York City, New York, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|54		|54
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|52–2		|52–2
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|TKO		|TKO
	|5 (15), {{small|2:05}}		|5 (15), {{small|2:05}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1976|5|24}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1976|5|24}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|FRG}} {{small|], ], West Germany}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], Munich, West Germany}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|53		|53
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|51–2		|51–2
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|15		|15
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1976|4|30}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1976|4|30}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], ], U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|52		|52
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|50–2		|50–2
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|BEL}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|KO		|KO
	|5 (15), {{small|2:46}}		|5 (15), {{small|2:46}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1976|2|20}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1976|2|20}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|PUR|1952}} {{small|], ], Puerto Rico}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], Puerto Rico}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|51		|51
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|49–2		|49–2
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|TKO		|RTD
	|14 (15), {{small|3:00}}		|14 (15), {{small|3:00}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1975|10|01}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1975|10|01}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|PHI|1936}} {{small|], ], Philippines}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], Philippines}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles;<br />RTD according to some contemporary sources}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|50		|50
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|48–2		|48–2
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|15		|15
			|]<!-- This is often reported as happening on June 30 because it was still June 30 in much of the world when the fight started on July 1 in Malaysia --><ref>{{cite web |title=ESPN Classic – Muhammad Ali's ring record |url=https://www.espn.com/classic/s/Ali_record.html |website=espn.com |access-date=July 6, 2021}}</ref>
	|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1975|6|30}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1975|6|30}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|MAS}} {{small|], ], Malaysia}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|49		|49
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|47–2		|47–2
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|TKO		|TKO
	|11 (15), {{small|1:08}}		|11 (15), {{small|1:08}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1975|5|16}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1975|5|16}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Las Vegas Convention Center, Winchester, Nevada, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Las Vegas Convention Center, Winchester, Nevada, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|48		|48
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|46–2		|46–2
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|TKO		|TKO
	|15 (15), {{small|2:41}}		|15 (15), {{small|2:41}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1975|3|24}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1975|3|24}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], ], U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|47		|47
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|45–2		|45–2
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|KO		|KO
	|8 (15), {{small|2:58}}		|8 (15), {{small|2:58}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1974|10|30}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1974|10|30}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|ZAI}} {{small|], ], Zaire}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], Zaire}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won WBA, WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won WBA, WBC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|46		|46
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|44–2		|44–2
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|12		|12
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1974|1|28}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1974|1|28}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained NABF heavyweight title}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained NABF heavyweight title}}
	|-		|-
Line 712:		Line 861:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|43–2		|43–2
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|NED}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|12		|12
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1973|10|20}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1973|10|20}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|INA}} {{small|], ], Indonesia}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], Indonesia}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 723:		Line 872:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|42–2		|42–2
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|SD		|SD
	|12		|12
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1973|9|10}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1973|9|10}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], ], U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won NABF heavyweight title}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won NABF heavyweight title}}
	|-		|-
Line 734:		Line 883:
	|{{no2}}Loss		|{{no2}}Loss
	|41–2		|41–2
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|{{abbr|SD|Split decision}}		|{{abbr|SD|Split decision}}
	|12		|12
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1973|3|31}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1973|3|31}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], ], California, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Lost NABF heavyweight title}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Lost NABF heavyweight title}}
	|-		|-
Line 745:		Line 894:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|41–1		|41–1
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|12		|12
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1973|2|14}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1973|2|14}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Las Vegas Convention Center, Winchester, Nevada, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Las Vegas Convention Center, Winchester, Nevada, U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 756:		Line 905:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|40–1		|40–1
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|KO		|KO
	|8 (12), {{small|0:40}}		|8 (12), {{small|0:40}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1972|11|21}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1972|11|21}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], ], U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained NABF heavyweight title}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained NABF heavyweight title}}
	|-		|-
Line 767:		Line 916:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|39–1		|39–1
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|RTD		|RTD
	|7 (12), {{small|3:00}}		|7 (12), {{small|3:00}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1972|9|20}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1972|9|20}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained NABF heavyweight title}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained NABF heavyweight title}}
	|-		|-
Line 778:		Line 927:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|38–1		|38–1
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|TKO		|TKO
	|11 (12), {{small|1:15}}		|11 (12), {{small|1:15}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1972|7|19}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1972|7|19}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|IRE}} {{small|], ], Ireland}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], Ireland}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 789:		Line 938:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|37–1		|37–1
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|TKO		|TKO
	|7 (12), {{small|0:19}}		|7 (12), {{small|0:19}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1972|6|27}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1972|6|27}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Las Vegas Convention Center, Winchester, Nevada, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Las Vegas Convention Center, Winchester, Nevada, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained NABF heavyweight title}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained NABF heavyweight title}}
	|-		|-
Line 800:		Line 949:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|36–1		|36–1
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|CAN}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|12		|12
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1972|5|01}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1972|5|01}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|CAN}} {{small|], ], Canada}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], British Columbia, Canada}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained NABF heavyweight title}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained NABF heavyweight title}}
	|-		|-
Line 811:		Line 960:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|35–1		|35–1
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|15		|15
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1972|4|01}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1972|4|01}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|JPN}} {{small|], ], Japan}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], Japan}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 822:		Line 971:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|34–1		|34–1
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|FRG}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|KO		|KO
	|7 (12), {{small|2:12}}		|7 (12), {{small|2:12}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1971|12|26}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1971|12|26}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|SWI}} {{small|], ], Switzerland}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], Switzerland}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 833:		Line 982:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|33–1		|33–1
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|12		|12
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1971|11|17}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1971|11|17}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Astrodome, Houston, Texas, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Astrodome, Houston, Texas, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained NABF heavyweight title}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained NABF heavyweight title}}
	|-		|-
Line 844:		Line 993:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|32–1		|32–1
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|TKO		|TKO
	|12 (12), {{small|2:10}}		|12 (12), {{small|2:10}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1971|7|26}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1971|7|26}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Astrodome, Houston, Texas, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Astrodome, Houston, Texas, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won vacant ]}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won vacant NABF heavyweight title}}
	|-		|-
	|32		|32
	|{{no2}}Loss		|{{no2}}Loss
	|31–1		|31–1
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|15		|15
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1971|3|08}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1971|3|08}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|For WBA, WBC, lineal, and vacant ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|For WBA, WBC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|31		|31
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|31–0		|31–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|ARG}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|TKO		|TKO
	|15 (15), {{small|2:03}}		|15 (15), {{small|2:03}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1970|12|07}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1970|12|07}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained ''The Ring'' and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won vacant ]}}
	|-		|-
	|30		|30
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|30–0		|30–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|RTD		|RTD
	|3 (15), {{small|3:00}}		|3 (15), {{small|3:00}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1970|10|26}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1970|10|26}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], ], U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], U.S.}}
			|
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained ''The Ring'' and lineal heavyweight titles}}
	|-
	|style="background:#FFEBAD" colspan=10|Suspension
	|-		|-
	|29		|29
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|29–0		|29–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|KO		|KO
	|7 (15), {{small|1:48}}		|7 (15), {{small|1:48}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1967|3|22}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1967|3|22}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], New York City, New York, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA, WBC, NYSAC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|28		|28
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|28–0		|28–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|15		|15
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1967|2|06}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1967|2|06}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Astrodome, Houston, Texas, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Astrodome, Houston, Texas, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles;<br />Won ]}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC, NYSAC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles;<br />Won WBA heavyweight title}}
	|-		|-
	|27		|27
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|27–0		|27–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|TKO		|TKO
	|3 (15), {{small|1:08}}		|3 (15), {{small|1:08}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1966|11|14}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1966|11|14}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], ], U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], Texas, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC, NYSAC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|26		|26
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|26–0		|26–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|FRG}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|TKO		|TKO
	|12 (15), {{small|1:30}}		|12 (15), {{small|1:30}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1966|9|10}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1966|9|10}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|FRG}} {{small|], ], West Germany}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], Frankfurt, West Germany}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC, NYSAC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|25		|25
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|25–0		|25–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|KO		|KO
	|3 (15), {{small|1:40}}		|3 (15), {{small|1:40}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1966|8|06}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1966|8|06}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|], London, England}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], London, England}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC, NYSAC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|24		|24
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|24–0		|24–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|TKO		|TKO
	|6 (15), {{small|1:38}}		|6 (15), {{small|1:38}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1966|5|21}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1966|5|21}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|], London, England}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], London, England}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC, NYSAC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|23		|23
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|23–0		|23–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|CAN}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|15		|15
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1966|3|29}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1966|3|29}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|CAN}} {{small|], ], Canada}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], Canada}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC, NYSAC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|22		|22
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|22–0		|22–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|TKO		|TKO
	|12 (15), {{small|2:18}}		|12 (15), {{small|2:18}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1965|11|22}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1965|11|22}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Las Vegas Convention Center, Winchester, Nevada, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Las Vegas Convention Center, Winchester, Nevada, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC, NYSAC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|21		|21
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|21–0		|21–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|KO		|KO
	|1 (15), {{small|2:12}}		|1 (15), {{small|2:12}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1965|5|25}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1965|5|25}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], ], U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC, ''The Ring'', and lineal heavyweight titles}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC, NYSAC, and ''The Ring'' heavyweight titles}}
	|-		|-
	|20		|20
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|20–0		|20–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|RTD		|RTD
	|7 (15), {{small|3:00}}		|6 (15), {{small|3:00}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1964|2|25}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1964|2|25}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Convention Center, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won ], '']'', and ]}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won ], ], ], and ]}}
	|-		|-
	|19		|19
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|19–0		|19–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|TKO		|TKO
	|5 (10), {{small|2:15}}		|5 (10), {{small|2:15}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1963|6|18}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1963|6|18}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|], ], England}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], London, England}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,011:		Line 1,158:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|18–0		|18–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|UD		|UD
	|10		|10
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1963|3|13}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1963|3|13}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,022:		Line 1,169:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|17–0		|17–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|KO		|KO
	|3 (10), {{small|2:04}}		|3 (10), {{small|2:04}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1963|1|24}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1963|1|24}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], ], U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,033:		Line 1,180:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|16–0		|16–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|TKO		|TKO
	|4 (10), {{small|1:35}}		|4 (10), {{small|1:35}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1962|11|15}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1962|11|15}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Memorial Sports Arena, Los Angeles, California, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Memorial Sports Arena, Los Angeles, California, U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,044:		Line 1,191:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|15–0		|15–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|ARG}} Alejandro Lavorante		|style="text-align:left;"|Alejandro Lavorante
	|KO		|KO
	|5 (10), {{small|1:48}}		|5 (10), {{small|1:48}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1962|7|20}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1962|7|20}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Memorial Sports Arena, Los Angeles, California, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Memorial Sports Arena, Los Angeles, California, U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,055:		Line 1,202:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|14–0		|14–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} Billy Daniels		|style="text-align:left;"|Billy Daniels
	|TKO		|TKO
	|7 (10), {{small|2:21}}		|7 (10), {{small|2:21}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1962|5|19}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1962|5|19}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], New York City, New York, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], New York City, New York, U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,066:		Line 1,213:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|13–0		|13–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} George Logan		|style="text-align:left;"|George Logan
	|TKO		|TKO
	|4 (10), {{small|1:34}}		|4 (10), {{small|1:34}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1962|4|23}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1962|4|23}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], ], U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,077:		Line 1,224:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|12–0		|12–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} Don Warner		|style="text-align:left;"|Don Warner
	|TKO		|TKO
	|4 (10), {{small|0:34}}		|4 (10), {{small|0:34}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1962|3|28}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1962|3|28}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Convention Center, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Convention Center, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,088:		Line 1,235:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|11–0		|11–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|TKO		|TKO
	|4 (10), {{small|0:26}}		|4 (10), {{small|0:26}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1962|2|10}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1962|2|10}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], ], U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,099:		Line 1,246:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|10–0		|10–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|FRG}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|TKO		|TKO
	|7 (10), {{small|1:55}}		|7 (10), {{small|1:55}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1961|11|29}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1961|11|29}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Freedom Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Freedom Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,110:		Line 1,257:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|9–0		|9–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|ARG}} Alex Miteff		|style="text-align:left;"|Alex Miteff
	|TKO		|TKO
	|6 (10), {{small|1:45}}		|6 (10), {{small|1:45}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1961|10|07}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1961|10|07}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Freedom Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Freedom Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,121:		Line 1,268:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|8–0		|8–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} Alonzo Johnson		|style="text-align:left;"|Alonzo Johnson
	|UD		|UD
	|10		|10
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1961|7|22}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1961|7|22}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Freedom Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Freedom Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,132:		Line 1,279:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|7–0		|7–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} Duke Sabedong		|style="text-align:left;"|Duke Sabedong
	|UD		|UD
	|10		|10
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1961|6|26}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1961|6|26}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], ], U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,143:		Line 1,290:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|6–0		|6–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} Lamar Clark		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|KO		|KO
	|2 (8), {{small|1:27}}		|2 (8), {{small|1:27}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1961|4|19}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1961|4|19}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Freedom Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Freedom Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,154:		Line 1,301:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|5–0		|5–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} Donnie Fleeman		|style="text-align:left;"|Donnie Fleeman
	|{{abbr|RTD|Corner retirement}}		|{{abbr|RTD|Corner retirement}}
	|6 (8)		|6 (8)
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1961|2|21}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1961|2|21}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Municipal Auditorium, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Municipal Auditorium, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,165:		Line 1,312:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|4–0		|4–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|{{abbr|KO|Knockout}}		|{{abbr|KO|Knockout}}
	|1 (8), {{small|1:34}}		|1 (8), {{small|1:34}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1961|2|07}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1961|2|07}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,176:		Line 1,323:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|3–0		|3–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} Tony Esperti		|style="text-align:left;"|Tony Esperti
	|TKO		|TKO
	|3 (8), {{small|1:30}}		|3 (8), {{small|1:30}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1961|1|17}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1961|1|17}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|Municipal Auditorium, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Municipal Auditorium, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,187:		Line 1,334:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|2–0		|2–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|{{abbr|TKO|Technical knockout}}		|{{abbr|TKO|Technical knockout}}
	|4 (8), {{small|1:00}}		|4 (8), {{small|1:00}}
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1960|12|27}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1960|12|27}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], ], U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], U.S.}}
	|		|
	|-		|-
Line 1,198:		Line 1,345:
	|{{yes2}}Win		|{{yes2}}Win
	|1–0		|1–0
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} ]		|style="text-align:left;"|]
	|{{abbr|UD|Unanimous decision}}		|{{abbr|UD|Unanimous decision}}
	|6		|6
	|]		|]
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1960|10|29}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{age in years and days|1942|1|17|1960|10|29}}
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|], ], U.S.}}		|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|], ], U.S.}}
			|
	|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Professional debut}}
	|}		|}
			==Discography==
			{{Further|Muhammad Ali in media and popular culture}}
			*'']'' (1963)
			*'']'' (1976)
	==See also==		==See also==
	{{Portal|African American|Biography|Islam|Sports}}		{{Portal|United States|Biography|Islam|Sports|Martial arts|Olympics
			}}
	{{Misplaced Pages books|Muhammad Ali}}
	*]		* ]
	*]		* ]
	*]		* ]
	*]		* ]
	*]		* ]
	*]		* ]
	*]		* ]
			* ]
	*]
	*]		* ]
			* ]
	*]
	==Notes==		==Notes==
	{{Notelist}}		{{Notelist}}
			{{reflist|group=note}}
	==References==		==References==
	{{Reflist|30em}}		{{Reflist}}
	==Further reading==		==Further reading==
	*{{cite book | last = Hauser | first = Thomas | title = Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times | year = 2004 | publisher = ] | isbn = 978-1-86105-738-9 | ref = harv}}		* {{cite book |last=Hauser |first=Thomas |year=2004 |title=Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times |url={{GBurl|id=7K6-AgAAQBAJ}} |location=London |publisher=Robson Books |isbn=978-1-86105-738-9 |oclc=56645513 }}
			===Online===
			* , in ''Encyclopædia Britannica Online'', by Thomas Hauser, Adam Augustyn, Piyush Bhathya, Yamini Chauhan, John M. Cunningham, Richard Pallardy, Michael Ray, Emily Rodriguez, Surabhi Sinha, Amy Tikkanen, Grace Young and The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
	==External links==		==External links==
	{{Commons category|Muhammad Ali}}
	{{Wikiquote}}		{{Wikiquote}}
			{{Commons category}}
	*{{Official website|http://www.ali.com/}}
			* {{Official website|https://web.archive.org/web/20181112191859/http://muhammadali.com:80/}} (November 2018 archive)
	*{{IMDb name|id=00000738}}
	*{{Boxrec|id=000180}}		* {{BoxRec}}
			* {{IMDb name}}
	*
			*
	*{{C-SPAN|Muhammed Ali}}
			* at the ]
	*{{Discogs artist|Muhammad Ali (2)}}
			* , ]
			* {{Team USA Hall of Fame|new_id=muhammad-ali|old_id=Muhammad-Ali|archive=20230406005921}}
			* {{Olympics.com profile}}
			* {{Olympedia}}
	'''Photo essays'''		'''Photo essays'''
	<!-- Please limit to the most notable publications -->		<!-- Please limit to the most notable publications -->
	* {{cite web |url=http://www.life.com/image/first/in-gallery/22961/cassius-clay-before-he-was-ali |title=Cassius Clay: Before He Was Ali |accessdate=October 22, 2009 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20091021043816/http://www.life.com/image/first/in-gallery/22961/cassius-clay-before-he-was-ali |archivedate=October 21, 2009 |df=mdy |work=] }}		* {{cite magazine |url=http://www.life.com/image/first/in-gallery/22961/cassius-clay-before-he-was-ali |title=Cassius Clay: Before He Was Ali |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091021043816/http://www.life.com/image/first/in-gallery/22961/cassius-clay-before-he-was-ali |archive-date=October 21, 2009 |magazine=]}}
	* {{cite web |last1=Berman |first1=Eliza |last2=Ronk |first2=Liz |url=http://time.com/3872023/muhammad-ali-dead-photos/ |title=Muhammad Ali's Life in Photos; From his time in the ring to his more playful side |work=] |publisher=time.com |date=June 4, 2016 |accessdate=October 26, 2016}}		* {{cite magazine |last1=Berman |first1=Eliza |last2=Ronk |first2=Liz |url=https://time.com/3872023/muhammad-ali-dead-photos/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160604052319/http://time.com/3872023/muhammad-ali-dead-photos/ |archive-date=June 4, 2016 |title=Muhammad Ali's Life in Photos; From his time in the ring to his more playful side |magazine=] |url-status=live |date=June 4, 2016}}
			{{clear}}
	{{s-start}}		{{s-start}}
	{{s-sports}}
	{{s-text|style=background:#C1D8FF; font-weight: bold;|text=Regional boxing titles}}
	{{s-break}}
	{{s-vac|last=]}}
	{{s-ttl|title=]
	|years=December 17, 1970 – ]<br />Lost bid for world title}}
	{{s-vac|next=]}}
	{{s-break}}
	{{s-vac|last=George Foreman}}
	{{s-ttl|title=NABF heavyweight champion
	|years=July 26, 1971 – March 31, 1973}}
	{{s-aft|after=]}}
	{{s-bef|before=Ken Norton}}
	{{s-ttl|title=NABF heavyweight champion
	|years=September 10, 1973 – ]<br />Won world title}}
	{{s-vac|next=Ken Norton}}
	{{s-text|style=background:#C1D8FF; font-weight: bold;|text=World boxing titles}}
	{{s-bef|rows=4|before=]}}
	{{s-ttl|title=]
	|years=] – March 11, 1969<br />Stripped}}
	{{s-vac|rows=4|next=]}}
	{{s-break}}
	{{s-ttl|title=]
	|years=February 25, 1964 – February 3, 1971<br />Vacated}}
	{{s-break}}
	{{s-ttl|title=]
	|years=February 25, 1964 – February 3, 1971<br />Titles fragmented}}
	{{s-break}}
	{{s-ttl|title=]
	|years=February 25, 1964 – February 3, 1971<br />Vacated}}
	{{s-bef|before=]}}
	{{s-ttl|title=]
	|years=] – April 27, 1968<br />Stripped}}
	{{s-vac|next=]}}
	{{s-bef|rows=5|before=George Foreman}}
	{{s-ttl|title=WBA heavyweight champion
	|years=October 30, 1974 – February 15, 1978}}
	{{s-aft|rows=5|after=]}}
	{{s-ttl|title=WBC heavyweight champion
	|years=October 30, 1974 – February 15, 1978}}
	{{s-break}}
	{{s-ttl|title=''The Ring'' heavyweight champion
	|years=October 30, 1974 – February 15, 1978}}
	{{s-break}}
	{{s-ttl|title=Undisputed heavyweight champion
	|years=October 30, 1974 – February 15, 1978}}
	{{s-break}}
	{{s-ttl|title=Lineal heavyweight champion
	|years=October 30, 1974 – February 15, 1978}}
	{{s-bef|rows=3|before=Leon Spinks}}
	{{s-ttl|title=WBA heavyweight champion
	|years=September 15, 1978 – October 18, 1979<br />Vacated}}
	{{s-vac|next=]}}
	{{s-break}}
	{{s-ttl|title=''The Ring'' heavyweight champion
	|years=September 15, 1978 – September 6, 1979<br />Retired}}
	{{s-vac|rows=2|next=]}}
	{{s-break}}
	{{s-ttl|title=Lineal heavyweight champion
	|years=September 15, 1978 – September 6, 1979<br />Retired}}
	{{s-ach|aw}}
	{{s-break}}
	{{s-non|reason=Inaugural award}}
	{{s-ttl|title=]
	|years=1974}}
	{{s-after|after=]}}
	{{s-before|before=]}}
	{{s-ttl|title=]
	|years=1973, 1974}}
	{{s-after|after=]}}
	{{s-before|before=]}}
	{{s-ttl|title=BBC Overseas Sports Personality of the Year
	|years=1978}}
	{{s-after|after=]}}
	{{s-sports|oly}}		{{s-sports|oly}}
	{{s-before|before=]}}		{{s-bef|before={{flagicon|NOR}} ]}}
	{{s-ttl|title=]		{{s-ttl|title=]|years=]}}
			{{s-aft|after={{flagicon|JPN}} ]}}
	|years=]}}
	{{s-after|after=]}}		{{s-bef|before={{flagicon|ESP}} ]}}
			{{s-ttl|title=]|years=]}}
	{{s-end}}
			{{s-aft|after={{flagicon|AUS}} ]}}
			{{S-end}}
	{{Muhammad Ali}}		{{Muhammad Ali|state=expanded}}
			{{Navboxes
	{{SI Sportsman of the Year}}
			|title = Awards for Muhammad Ali
	{{Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year navbox}}
			|list =
	{{Footer Olympic Champions Boxing Light Heavyweight}}		{{Footer Olympic Champions Boxing Light Heavyweight}}
			{{BBC Sports Personality World Sport Star of the Year}}
	{{Footer USA Boxing 1960 Summer Olympics}}
			{{NAACP Image Award – President's Award}}
	{{Ring magazine Fighter of the Year}}
	{{Sugar Ray Robinson Award}}
	{{Hickok Belt}}
	{{Arthur Ashe Courage}}		{{Arthur Ashe Courage}}
			{{Time 100: The Most Important People of the Century}}
			{{Hickok Belt}}
			{{WWE Hall of Fame}}
			}}
	{{Louisville}}		{{Louisville}}
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	]		]
	]		]
			]
			]
			]
			]
			]
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American boxer and social activist (1942–2016) For other uses, see Muhammad Ali (disambiguation). "Cassius Clay" redirects here. For other uses, see Cassius Clay (disambiguation). "I am the greatest" redirects here. For other uses, see I Am the Greatest (disambiguation).

Muhammad Ali
Ali in 1975
Born	Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. (1942-01-17)January 17, 1942 Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.
Died	June 3, 2016(2016-06-03) (aged 74) Scottsdale, Arizona, U.S.
Resting place	Cave Hill Cemetery, Louisville
Monuments	Ali Mall Muhammad Ali Boulevard Muhammad Ali Center Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport
Citizenship	United States Bangladesh (honorary)
Education	Central High School (1958)
Occupations	Boxer activist actor singer poet philanthropist author orator
Spouses	Sonji Roi ​ ​(m. 1964; div. 1966)​ Belinda Boyd ​ ​(m. 1967; div. 1976)​ Veronica Porché ​ ​(m. 1977; div. 1986)​ Yolanda "Lonnie" Williams ​ ​(m. 1986)​
Children	9, including Laila (see below)
Parents	Cassius Marcellus Clay Sr. Odessa Grady Clay
Relatives	Rahaman Ali (brother) Archer Alexander (great-great-great grandfather) Nico Ali Walsh (grandson)
Awards	Full list
Boxing career
Other names	The Greatest The People's Champion The Louisville Lip
Statistics
Weight(s)	Heavyweight
Height	6 ft 3 in (191 cm)
Reach	78 in (198 cm)
Stance	Orthodox
Boxing record
Total fights	61
Wins	56
Wins by KO	37
Losses	5
Medal record Men's amateur boxing Representing  United States Olympic Games 1960 Rome Light-heavyweight Intercity Golden Gloves 1959 Chicago Light-heavyweight 1960 New York Heavyweight Chicago Golden Gloves 1959 Chicago Light-heavyweight 1960 Chicago Light-heavyweight US National Championships 1959 Toledo Light-heavyweight 1960 Toledo Light-heavyweight
Website	muhammadali.com
Signature

Muhammad Ali (/ɑːˈliː/; born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr.; January 17, 1942 – June 3, 2016) was an American professional boxer and social activist. A global cultural icon, widely known by the epithet, “The Greatest," he is frequently cited as the greatest heavyweight boxer of all time. He held the Ring magazine heavyweight title from 1964 to 1970, was the undisputed champion from 1974 to 1978, and was the WBA and Ring heavyweight champion from 1978 to 1979. In 1999, he was named Sportsman of the Century by Sports Illustrated and the Sports Personality of the Century by the BBC.

Born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, he began training as an amateur boxer at age 12. At 18, he won a gold medal in the light heavyweight division at the 1960 Summer Olympics and turned professional later that year. He joined the Nation of Islam in the early 1960s, but later disavowed it in the mid-1970s. He won the world heavyweight championship, defeating Sonny Liston in a major upset on February 25, 1964, at age 22. During that year, he denounced his birth name as a "slave name" and formally changed his name to Muhammad Ali. In 1967, Ali refused to be drafted into the military, owing to his religious beliefs and ethical opposition to the Vietnam War, and was found guilty of draft evasion and stripped of his boxing titles. He stayed out of prison while appealing the decision to the Supreme Court, where his conviction was overturned in 1971. He did not fight for nearly four years and lost a period of peak performance as an athlete. Ali's actions as a conscientious objector to the Vietnam War made him an icon for the larger counterculture of the 1960s generation, and became a prominent, high-profile figure of racial pride for African Americans during the civil rights movement and throughout his career.

He fought in several historic boxing matches, including his highly publicized fights with Sonny Liston, Joe Frazier (including the Fight of the Century, the biggest boxing event up until then), the Thrilla in Manila, and his fight with George Foreman in The Rumble in the Jungle. Ali thrived in the spotlight at a time when many boxers let their managers do the talking, and he became renowned for his provocative and outlandish persona. He was famous for trash-talking, often free-styled with rhyme schemes and spoken word poetry, and has been recognized as a pioneer in hip hop. He often predicted in which round he would knock out his opponent. As a boxer, Ali was known for his unorthodox movement, fancy footwork, head movement, and rope-a-dope technique, among others.

Outside boxing, Ali attained success as a spoken word artist, releasing two studio albums: I Am the Greatest! (1963) and The Adventures of Ali and His Gang vs. Mr. Tooth Decay (1976). Both albums received Grammy Award nominations. He also featured as an actor and writer, releasing two autobiographies. Ali retired from boxing in 1981 and focused on religion, philanthropy, and activism. In 1984, he made public his diagnosis of Parkinson's syndrome, which some reports attributed to boxing-related injuries, though he and his specialist physicians disputed this. He remained an active public figure globally, but in his later years made fewer public appearances as his condition worsened, and was cared for by his family.

Early life

Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. (/ˈkæʃəs/) was born on January 17, 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky. He had one brother. He was named after his father, Cassius Marcellus Clay Sr. (1912–1990), who had a sister and four brothers and who himself was named in honor of the 19th-century Republican politician and staunch abolitionist Cassius Marcellus Clay, also from the state of Kentucky. Clay's father's paternal grandparents were John Clay and Sallie Anne Clay; Clay's sister Eva claimed that Sallie was a native of Madagascar. He was a descendant of slaves of the antebellum South, and was predominantly of African descent, with Irish and English family heritage. His maternal great-grandfather, Abe Grady, emigrated from Ennis, County Clare, Ireland. DNA testing performed in 2018 showed that, through his paternal grandmother, Clay was a descendant of the former slave Archer Alexander, who had been chosen from the building crew as the model of a freed man for the Emancipation Memorial, and was the subject of abolitionist William Greenleaf Eliot's book, The Story of Archer Alexander: From Slavery to Freedom.

His father was a sign and billboard painter, and his mother, Odessa O'Grady Clay (1917–1994), was a domestic helper. Although Cassius Sr. was a Methodist, he allowed Odessa to bring up both Cassius Jr. and his younger brother, Rudolph "Rudy" Clay (later renamed Rahaman Ali), as Baptists. Cassius Jr. attended Central High School in Louisville. He was dyslexic, which led to difficulties in reading and writing, at school and for much of his life.

He grew up amid racial segregation. His mother recalled one occasion when he was denied a drink of water at a store: "They wouldn't give him one because of his color. That really affected him." He was also strongly affected by the 1955 murder of Emmett Till, which led to young Clay and a friend taking out their frustration by vandalizing a local rail yard. He once told his daughter Hana, "Nothing would ever shake me up (more) than the story of Emmett Till."

Amateur career

Clay was first directed toward boxing by Louisville police officer and boxing coach Joe E. Martin, who encountered the 12-year-old fuming over a thief having taken his bicycle. He told the officer he was going to "whup" the thief. The officer told Clay he had better learn how to box first. Initially, Clay did not take up Martin's offer, but after seeing amateur boxers on a local television boxing program called Tomorrow's Champions, Clay was interested in the prospect of fighting. He then began to work with trainer Fred Stoner, whom he credits with giving him the "real training", eventually molding "my style, my stamina and my system". For the last four years of Clay's amateur career he was trained by boxing cutman Chuck Bodak.

Clay made his amateur boxing debut in 1954 against local amateur boxer Ronnie O'Keefe. He won by split decision. He went on to win six Kentucky Golden Gloves titles, two national Golden Gloves titles, an Amateur Athletic Union national title, and the light heavyweight gold medal in the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome. Clay's amateur record was 100 wins with five losses. In his 1975 autobiography he recalled that shortly after his return from the Rome Olympics, he threw his gold medal into the Ohio River after he and a friend were refused service at a "whites-only" restaurant and fought with a white gang. The story was later disputed, and several of his friends, including Bundini Brown and photographer Howard Bingham, denied it. Brown told Sports Illustrated writer Mark Kram, "Honkies sure bought into that one!" Thomas Hauser's biography of Ali stated that Ali was refused service at the diner but that he lost his medal a year after he won it. Ali received a replacement medal at the Georgia Dome during the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, where he lit the torch to start the Games.

Professional career

Main article: Boxing career of Muhammad Ali

Early career

Clay made his professional debut on October 29, 1960, winning a six-round decision over Tunney Hunsaker. From then until the end of 1963, Clay amassed a record of 19–0 with 15 wins by knockout. He defeated boxers including Tony Esperti, Jim Robinson, Donnie Fleeman, Alonzo Johnson, George Logan, Willi Besmanoff, LaMar Clark, Doug Jones, and Henry Cooper. Clay also beat his former trainer and veteran boxer Archie Moore in a 1962 match.

These early fights were not without trials. Clay was knocked down by both Sonny Banks and Cooper. In the Cooper fight, Clay was floored by a left hook at the end of round four and was saved by the bell, going on to win in the predicted fifth round due to Cooper's severely cut eye. The fight with Doug Jones on March 13, 1963, was Clay's toughest fight during this stretch. The number two and three heavyweight contenders respectively, Clay and Jones fought on Jones' home turf at New York's Madison Square Garden. Jones staggered Clay in the first round, and the unanimous decision for Clay was greeted by boos and a rain of debris thrown into the ring. Watching on closed-circuit TV, heavyweight champ Sonny Liston quipped that if he fought Clay he (Liston) might get locked up for murder. The fight was later named "Fight of the Year" by The Ring magazine.

In each of these fights, Clay vocally belittled his opponents and vaunted his abilities. He called Jones "an ugly little man" and Cooper a "bum". He said he was embarrassed to get in the ring with Alex Miteff and claimed that Madison Square Garden was "too small for me". Ali's trash talk was inspired by professional wrestler "Gorgeous George" Wagner's, after he saw George's talking ability attract huge crowds to events. In a 1969 interview he stated that he met with George in Las Vegas in 1961, that George told him that talking a big game would earn paying fans who either wanted to see him win or wanted to see him lose, thus Clay transformed himself into a self-described "big-mouth and a bragger".

In 1960, Clay left Moore's camp, partially due to Clay's refusal to do chores such as washing dishes and sweeping. To replace Moore, Clay hired Angelo Dundee to be his trainer. Clay had met Dundee in February 1957 during Clay's amateur career. Around this time, Clay sought longtime idol Sugar Ray Robinson to be his manager, but was rebuffed.

World heavyweight champion

Fights against Liston

Main article: Muhammad Ali vs. Sonny Liston

By late 1963, Clay had become the top contender for Sonny Liston's title. The fight was set for February 25, 1964, in Miami Beach. Liston was an intimidating personality, a dominating fighter with a criminal past and ties to the mob. Based on Clay's uninspired performance against Jones and Cooper in his previous two fights, and Liston's destruction of former heavyweight champion Floyd Patterson in two first-round knockouts, Clay was an 8:1 underdog. Despite this, Clay taunted Liston during the pre-fight buildup, dubbing him "the big ugly bear", claiming "Liston even smells like a bear" and "I'm gonna give him to the local zoo after I whup him." Clay turned the pre-fight weigh-in into a circus, shouting at Liston that "someone is going to die at ringside tonight." Clay's pulse rate was measured at 120, more than double his normal 54. Many of those in attendance thought Clay's behavior stemmed from fear, and some commentators wondered if he would show up for the bout.

The outcome of the fight was a major upset. At the opening bell, Liston rushed at Clay, seemingly angry and looking for a quick knockout. However, Clay's superior speed and mobility enabled him to elude Liston, making the champion miss and look awkward. At the end of the first round, Clay opened up his attack and hit Liston repeatedly with jabs. Liston fought better in round two, but at the beginning of the third round Clay hit Liston with a combination that buckled his knees and opened a cut under his left eye. This was the first time Liston had ever been cut. At the end of round four, Clay was returning to his corner when he began experiencing blinding pain in his eyes and asked his trainer, Angelo Dundee, to cut off his gloves. Dundee refused. It has been speculated that the problem was due to ointment used to seal Liston's cuts, perhaps deliberately applied by his corner to his gloves. Though unconfirmed, boxing historian Bert Sugar said that two of Liston's opponents also complained about their eyes "burning".

Despite Liston's attempts to knock out a blinded Clay, Clay was able to survive the fifth round until sweat and tears rinsed the irritation from his eyes. In the sixth, Clay dominated, hitting Liston repeatedly. Liston did not answer the bell for the seventh round, and Clay was declared the winner by TKO. Liston stated that the reason he quit was an injured shoulder. Following the win, a triumphant Clay rushed to the edge of the ring and, pointing to the ringside press, shouted: "Eat your words!" He added, "I am the greatest! I shook up the world. I'm the prettiest thing that ever lived."

At ringside post fight, Clay appeared unconvinced that the fight was stopped due to a Liston shoulder injury, saying that the only injury Liston had was "an open eye, a big cut eye!" When told by Joe Louis that the injury was a "left arm thrown out of its socket," Clay quipped, "Yeah, swinging at nothing, who wouldn't?"

In winning this fight at the age of 22, Clay became the youngest boxer to take the title from a reigning heavyweight champion. However, Floyd Patterson remained the youngest to win the heavyweight championship, doing so at the age 21 during an elimination bout following Rocky Marciano's retirement. Mike Tyson broke both records in 1986 when he defeated Trevor Berbick to win the heavyweight title at age 20. The feat also made Clay the fastest boxer to win the championship (non-vacant) in the modern era, doing so in 20 bouts.

Soon after the Liston fight, Clay changed his name to Cassius X, and then later to Muhammad Ali upon converting to the Nation of Islam. Ali then faced a rematch with Liston scheduled for May 1965 in Lewiston, Maine. It had been scheduled for Boston the previous November, but was postponed for six months due to Ali's emergency surgery for a hernia three days before. The fight was controversial. Midway through the first round, Liston was knocked down by a difficult-to-see blow the press dubbed a "phantom punch". Referee Jersey Joe Walcott did not begin the count immediately after the knockdown, as Ali refused to retreat to a neutral corner. Liston rose after he had been down for about 20 seconds, and the fight momentarily continued. However a few seconds later Walcott, having been informed by the timekeepers that Liston had been down for a count of 10, stopped the match and declared Ali the winner by knockout. The entire fight lasted less than two minutes.

It has since been speculated that Liston purposely dropped to the ground. Proposed motivations include threats on his life from the Nation of Islam, that he had bet against himself and that he "took a dive" to pay off debts. Slow-motion replays show that Liston was jarred by a chopping right from Ali, although it is unclear whether the blow was a genuine knockout punch.

Fight against Patterson

Main article: Muhammad Ali vs. Floyd Patterson

Ali defended his title against former heavyweight champion Floyd Patterson on November 22, 1965. Before the match, Ali mocked Patterson, who was widely known to call him by his former name Cassius Clay, as an "Uncle Tom", calling him "The Rabbit". Although Ali had the better of Patterson, who appeared injured during the fight, the match lasted 12 rounds before being called on a technical knockout. Patterson later said he had strained his sacroiliac. Ali was criticized in the sports media for appearing to have toyed with Patterson during the fight. Patterson biographer W. K. Stratton claims that the conflict between Ali and Patterson was not genuine but was staged to increase ticket sales and the closed-circuit viewing audience, with both men complicit in the theatrics. Stratton also cites an interview by Howard Cosell in which Ali explained that rather than toying with Patterson, he refrained from knocking him out after it became apparent Patterson was injured. Patterson later said that he had never been hit by punches as soft as Ali's. Stratton states that Ali arranged the second fight, in 1972, with the financially struggling Patterson to help the former champion earn enough money to pay a debt to the IRS.

Main Bout

After the Patterson fight, Ali founded his own promotion company, Main Bout. The company mainly handled Ali's boxing promotions and pay-per-view closed-circuit television broadcasts. The company's stockholders were mainly fellow Nation of Islam members, along with several others, including Bob Arum.

Ali and then-WBA heavyweight champion boxer Ernie Terrell had agreed to meet for a bout in Chicago on March 29, 1966 (the WBA, one of two boxing associations, had stripped Ali of his title following his joining the Nation of Islam). But in February Ali was reclassified by the Louisville draft board as 1-A from 1-Y, and he indicated that he would refuse to serve, commenting to the press, "I ain't got nothing against no Viet Cong; no Viet Cong never called me nigger.", although the second part is probably apocryphal. Amidst the media and public outcry over Ali's stance, the Illinois Athletic Commission refused to sanction the fight, citing technicalities.

Instead, Ali traveled to Canada and Europe and won championship bouts against George Chuvalo, Henry Cooper, Brian London, and Karl Mildenberger.

Ali returned to the United States to fight Cleveland Williams at the Astrodome in Houston on November 14, 1966. The bout drew a record-breaking indoor crowd of 35,460 people. Williams had once been considered among the hardest punchers in the heavyweight division, but in 1964 he had been shot at point-blank range by a Texas policeman, resulting in the loss of one kidney and 3.0 metres (10 ft) of his small intestine. Ali dominated Williams, winning a third-round technical knockout in what some consider the finest performance of his career.

Ali fought Terrell in Houston on February 6, 1967. Terrell, who was unbeaten in five years and had defeated many of the boxers Ali had faced, was billed as Ali's toughest opponent since Liston; he was big, strong and had a three-inch reach advantage over Ali. During the lead up to the bout, Terrell repeatedly called Ali "Clay", much to Ali's annoyance. The two almost came to blows over the name issue in a pre-fight interview with Howard Cosell. Ali seemed intent on humiliating Terrell. "I want to torture him", he said. "A clean knockout is too good for him." The fight was close until the seventh round, when Ali bloodied Terrell and almost knocked him out. In the eighth round, Ali taunted Terrell, hitting him with jabs and shouting between punches, "What's my name, Uncle Tom ... what's my name?" Ali won a unanimous 15-round decision. Terrell claimed that early in the fight Ali deliberately thumbed him in the eye, forcing him to fight half-blind, and then, in a clinch, rubbed the wounded eye against the ropes. Because of Ali's apparent intent to prolong the fight to inflict maximum punishment, critics described the bout as "one of the ugliest boxing fights". Tex Maule later wrote: "It was a wonderful demonstration of boxing skill and a barbarous display of cruelty." Ali denied the accusations of cruelty but, for Ali's critics, the fight provided more evidence of his arrogance.

After Ali's title defense against Zora Folley on March 22, he was stripped of his title due to his refusal to be drafted to army service. His boxing license was also suspended by the state of New York. He was convicted of draft evasion on June 20 and sentenced to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. He paid a bond and remained free while the verdict was being appealed.

Draft resistance

See also: Clay v. United States

My enemy is the white people, not Viet Cong or Chinese or Japanese. You my opposer when I want freedom. You my opposer when I want justice. You my opposer when I want equality. You won't even stand up for me in America for my religious beliefs—and you want me to go somewhere and fight, but you won't even stand up for me here at home?

—Muhammad Ali to a crowd of college students during his exile from boxing

Ali registered for conscription in the United States military on his 18th birthday and was listed as 1-A in 1962. In 1964, he was reclassified as Class 1-Y (fit for service only in times of national emergency) after he failed the U.S. Armed Forces qualifying test because his writing and spelling skills were sub-standard, due to his dyslexia. (He was quoted as saying, "I said I was the greatest, not the smartest!") By early 1966, the army lowered its standards to permit soldiers above the 15th percentile and Ali was again classified as 1-A. This classification meant he was now eligible for the draft and induction into the U.S. Army at a time when the U.S. was involved in the Vietnam War, a war which put him further at odds with the white establishment.

When notified of this status, Ali declared that he would refuse to serve in the army and publicly considered himself a conscientious objector. Ali stated: "War is against the teachings of the Qur'an. I'm not trying to dodge the draft. We are not supposed to take part in no wars unless declared by Allah or The Messenger. We don't take part in Christian wars or wars of any unbelievers". He also said, "We are not to be the aggressor but we will defend ourselves if attacked." He stated: "Man, I ain't got no quarrel with them Vietcong." Ali elaborated: "Why should they ask me to put on a uniform and go ten thousand miles from home and drop bombs and bullets on brown people in Vietnam while so-called Negro people in Louisville are treated like dogs and denied simple human rights?" Ali antagonized the white establishment in 1966 by refusing to be drafted into the U.S. military, citing his religious beliefs and opposition to American involvement in the Vietnam War.

On April 28, 1967, Ali appeared in Houston for his scheduled induction into the U.S. Armed Forces, but he refused three times to step forward when his name was called. An officer warned him that he was committing a felony punishable by five years in prison and a fine of $10,000. Once more, Ali refused to budge when his name was called, and he was arrested. Later that same day, the New York State Athletic Commission suspended his boxing license and the World Boxing Association stripped him of his title. Other boxing commissions followed suit. Ali remained unable to obtain a license to box in any state for over three years. On June 4, 1967, in a first for sports professionals, a group of high-profile African-American athletes including Jim Brown, Bill Russell, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, as well as one political leader, Carl Stokes, assembled with Ali at the Negro Industrial Economic Union in Cleveland for what became known as the "Cleveland Summit" or the "Muhammad Ali Summit". The meeting was organized by Brown for his peers to question Ali about the seriousness of his convictions, and to decide whether to support him, which they ultimately did.

External videos
Conversation with Muhammad Ali, includes transcript, July 7, 1968, 28:55, American Archive of Public Broadcasting

At the trial on June 20, 1967, the jury found Ali guilty after only 21 minutes of deliberation of the criminal offense of violating the Selective Service laws by refusing to be drafted. After a Court of Appeals upheld the conviction, the case was reviewed by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1971.

Ali remained free in the years between the Appellate Court decision and the Supreme Court ruling. As public opinion began turning against the war and the Civil Rights Movement continued to gather momentum, Ali became a popular speaker at colleges and universities across the country; this itinerary was rare if not unprecedented for a prizefighter. At Howard University, for example, he gave his popular "Black Is Best" speech to 4,000 cheering students and community intellectuals, after he was invited to speak by sociology professor Nathan Hare on behalf of the Black Power Committee, a student protest group.

On June 28, 1971, the Supreme Court of the United States in Clay v. United States overturned Ali's conviction by a unanimous 8–0 decision (Justice Thurgood Marshall recused himself, as he had been the U.S. Solicitor General at the time of Ali's conviction). The decision was not based on, nor did it address, the merits of Ali's claims per se. Rather, the Court held that since the appeal board gave no reason for the denial of a conscientious objector exemption to Ali, that it was therefore impossible to determine which of the three basic tests for conscientious objector status (offered in the Justice Department's brief) the appeal board relied on, and Ali's conviction must be reversed.

In a 1974 interview, Ali said, "If they say stand and salute the flag I do that out of respect, because I'm in the country". Ali would later say, "If America was in trouble and real war came, I'd be on the front line if we had been attacked. But I could see that wasn't right." He also said, "Black men would go over there and fight, but when they came home, they couldn't even be served a hamburger."

Impact of Ali's draft refusal

Ali's example inspired many black Americans and others. However, initially when he refused induction, he became arguably the most hated man in the country and received many death threats. People who supported Ali during this time were also threatened, including sports journalist Jerry Izenberg, whose columns defended Ali's decision not to serve. He wrote, "Bomb threats emptied our office, making the staff stand out in the snow. My car windshield was smashed with a sledgehammer." The New York Times columnist William Rhoden wrote, "Ali's actions changed my standard of what constituted an athlete's greatness. Possessing a killer jump shot or the ability to stop on a dime was no longer enough. What were you doing for the liberation of your people? What were you doing to help your country live up to the covenant of its founding principles?"

Recalling Ali's anti-war position, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar said: "I remember the teachers at my high school didn't like Ali because he was so anti-establishment and he kind of thumbed his nose at authority and got away with it. The fact that he was proud to be a black man and that he had so much talent ... made some people think that he was dangerous. But for those very reasons I enjoyed him."

Civil rights figures came to believe that Ali had an energizing effect on the freedom movement as a whole. Al Sharpton spoke of his bravery at a time when there was still widespread support for the Vietnam War:

For the heavyweight champion of the world, who had achieved the highest level of athletic celebrity, to put all of that on the line—the money, the ability to get endorsements—to sacrifice all of that for a cause, gave a whole sense of legitimacy to the movement and the causes with young people that nothing else could have done. Even those who were assassinated, certainly lost their lives, but they didn't voluntarily do that. He knew he was going to jail and did it anyway. That's another level of leadership and sacrifice.

Ali was honored with the annual Martin Luther King Award in 1970 by civil rights leader Ralph Abernathy, who called him "a living example of soul power, the March on Washington in two fists". Coretta Scott King added that Ali was "a champion of justice and peace and unity".

In speaking of the cost on Ali's career of his refusal to be drafted, his trainer Angelo Dundee said, "One thing must be taken into account when talking about Ali: He was robbed of his best years, his prime years." Ali's promoter Bob Arum did not support Ali's choice at the time, but in 2016 Arum stated: "when I look back at his life, and I was blessed to call him a friend and spent a lot of time with him, it's hard for me to talk about his exploits in boxing because as great as they were they paled in comparison to the impact that he had on the world. ... He did what he thought was right. And it turned out he was right, and I was wrong."

Ali's resistance to the draft was covered in the 2013 documentary The Trials of Muhammad Ali.

NSA and FBI monitoring of Ali's communications

In a secret operation code-named "Minaret", the National Security Agency (NSA) intercepted the communications of leading Americans, including Ali, Senators Frank Church and Howard Baker, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., prominent U.S. journalists, and others who criticized the U.S. war in Vietnam. A review by the NSA of the Minaret program concluded that it was "disreputable if not outright illegal".

In 1971, Ali's Fight of the Century with Frazier was used by an activist group, the Citizens' Commission to Investigate the FBI, to pull off a burglary at an FBI office in Pennsylvania; the anticipation for the fight was unlike anything else, so they believed the security would also be focused on the fight. This raid exposed the COINTELPRO operations that included illegal spying on activists involved with the civil rights and anti-war movements. One of the COINTELPRO targets was Ali, and their activities included the FBI gaining access to his records as far back as elementary school; one such record mentioned him loving art as a child.

Exile and comeback

In March 1966, Ali refused to be inducted into the armed forces. He was systematically denied a boxing license in every state and stripped of his passport. As a result, he did not fight from March 1967 to October 1970—from ages 25 to almost 29—as his case worked its way through the appeals process before his conviction was overturned in 1971.

Protesting while exiled

During this time of inactivity, as opposition to the Vietnam War began to grow and Ali's stance gained sympathy, he spoke at colleges across the nation, criticizing the Vietnam War and advocating African American pride and racial justice. Ali based himself in Chicago. According to most close to him, his Chicago years were formative.

At the time, Ali was widely condemned by the American media, with fears that his actions could potentially lead to mass civil disobedience. Despite this, Ebony magazine noted in the late 1960s that Ali's popularity had increased during this time, especially among black people.

The Super Fight

Main article: The Super Fight

While banned from sanctioned bouts, Ali settled a $1 million lawsuit against radio producer Murray Woroner by accepting $10,000 to appear in a privately staged fantasy fight against retired champion Rocky Marciano. In 1969 the boxers were filmed sparring for about 75 one-minute rounds; they produced several potential outcomes. A computer program purportedly determined the winner, based on data about the fighters, along with the opinions of approximately 250 boxing experts. Edited versions of the bout were shown in movie theaters in 1970. In the U.S. version Ali lost in a simulated 13th-round knockout, but in the European version Marciano lost due to cuts, also simulated.

Ali suggested that prejudice determined his defeat in the U.S. version; he was reported to have jokingly said, "That computer was made in Alabama."

Return

On August 11, 1970, with his case still in appeal, Ali was granted a license to box by the City of Atlanta Athletic Commission. Leroy Johnson, Jesse Hill Jr. and Harry Pett had used their local political influence and set up the company House of Sports to organize the fight, underlining the influential power of Georgia's black politics in Ali's comeback. Ali's first return bout was against Jerry Quarry on October 26, resulting in a win after three rounds after Quarry was cut.

A month earlier, a victory in federal court forced the New York State Boxing Commission to reinstate Ali's license. He fought Oscar Bonavena at Madison Square Garden in December, an uninspired performance that ended in a dramatic technical knockout of Bonavena in the 15th round. The win left Ali as a top contender against heavyweight champion Joe Frazier.

Fight against Joe Frazier

Main article: Joe Frazier vs. Muhammad Ali

Ali and Frazier's first fight, held at the Garden, was on March 8, 1971, while Ali's Supreme Court appeal was still pending. It was nicknamed the "Fight of the Century" due to the tremendous excitement surrounding a bout between two undefeated fighters, each with a legitimate claim to be heavyweight champion. Veteran U.S. boxing writer John Condon called it "the greatest event I've ever worked on in my life." The bout was broadcast to 36 countries; promoters granted 760 press passes.

Adding to the atmosphere were the considerable pre-fight theatrics and name calling. Before the fight, Frazier called Ali "Cassius Clay," angering Ali who responded by calling Frazier a "dumb tool of the white establishment" and saying "Frazier is too ugly to be champ. Frazier is too dumb to be champ." Ali also frequently called Frazier an "Uncle Tom." Dave Wolf, who worked in Frazier's camp, recalled that "Ali was saying 'the only people rooting for Joe Frazier are white people in suits, Alabama sheriffs, and members of the Ku Klux Klan. I'm fighting for the little man in the ghetto.' Joe was sitting there, smashing his fist into the palm of his hand, saying, 'What the fuck does he know about the ghetto?'"

Ali began training at a farm near Reading, Pennsylvania, in 1971 and, finding the country setting to his liking, sought to develop a real training camp in the countryside. He found a five-acre site on a Pennsylvania country road in the village of Deer Lake, Pennsylvania. On this site, Ali carved out what was to become his training camp, where he trained for all his fights from 1972 to the end of his career in 1981.

The Monday night fight lived up to its billing. In a preview of their two other fights, a crouching, bobbing and weaving Frazier constantly pressured Ali, getting hit regularly by Ali jabs and combinations, but relentlessly attacking and scoring repeatedly, especially to Ali's body. The fight was even in the early rounds, but Ali was taking more punishment than ever in his career up until that point. On several occasions in the early rounds, he played to the crowd and shook his head "no" after he was hit. In the later rounds—in what was the first appearance of the "rope-a-dope strategy"—Ali leaned against the ropes and absorbed punishment from Frazier, hoping to tire him. In the 11th round, Frazier connected with a left hook that wobbled Ali, but because it appeared that Ali might be clowning as he staggered backwards across the ring, Frazier hesitated to press his advantage, fearing an Ali counterattack. In the final round, Frazier knocked Ali down with a vicious left hook, which referee Arthur Mercante said was as hard as a man can be hit. Ali was back on his feet in three seconds. Nevertheless, Ali lost by unanimous decision, his first professional defeat.

After his loss

Chamberlain challenge and Ellis fight

Main article: Muhammad Ali vs. Jimmy Ellis

In 1971, basketball star Wilt Chamberlain challenged Ali to a fight, and a bout was scheduled for July 26. Although the seven-foot-one-inch-tall Chamberlain had formidable physical advantages over Ali—weighing 60 pounds more and able to reach 14 inches further—Ali was able to influence Chamberlain into calling off the bout by taunting him with calls of "Timber!" and "The tree will fall" during a shared interview. These statements of confidence unsettled his taller opponent, whom Los Angeles Lakers owner Jack Kent Cooke had offered a record-setting contract, conditional on Chamberlain agreeing to abandon what Cooke termed "this boxing foolishness", and he did exactly that.

Meanwhile, on June 28, 1971, the Supreme Court overturned Ali's draft evasion conviction. To replace Ali's opponent, promoter Bob Arum quickly booked a former sparring partner of Ali's, Jimmy Ellis, who was a childhood friend from Louisville, Kentucky, to fight him. Ali won the bout through a technical knockout when the referee stopped the fight in the twelfth round.

Fights against Quarry, Patterson, Foster, Bugner and Norton

After Ellis, Ali fought Jerry Quarry, had a second bout with Floyd Patterson, and faced Bob Foster in 1972, winning a total of six fights that year. During two bouts he had in 1973 with Joe Bugner and Ken Norton, he wore a "People's Choice" robe given to him by Elvis Presley. In 1973, before his fight with Norton, Tom Cushman, a boxing writer for the Philadelphia Daily News, said Ali was "gloriously overconfident" and didn't consider Norton "a threat at all." But during the fight, either in the second round according to most press reports, or the final round according to Norton, Norton broke Ali's jaw and inflicted by decision the second loss of his career. After considering retirement, Ali won a controversial decision against Norton in their second bout. This led to a rematch with Joe Frazier at Madison Square Garden on January 28, 1974; Frazier had recently lost his title to George Foreman.

Second fight against Joe Frazier

Main article: Muhammad Ali vs. Joe Frazier II

Ali was strong in the early rounds of the fight, and staggered Frazier in the second round. Referee Tony Perez mistakenly thought he heard the bell ending the round and stepped between the two fighters as Ali was pressing his attack, giving Frazier time to recover. However, Frazier came on in the middle rounds, snapping Ali's head in round seven and driving him to the ropes at the end of round eight. The last four rounds saw round-to-round shifts in momentum between the two fighters. Throughout most of the bout, however, Ali was able to circle away from Frazier's dangerous left hook and to tie Frazier up when he was cornered, the latter a tactic that Frazier's camp complained of bitterly. Judges awarded Ali a unanimous decision.

World heavyweight champion (second reign)

The Rumble in the Jungle

Main article: The Rumble in the Jungle

The defeat of Frazier set the stage for a title fight against heavyweight champion George Foreman in Kinshasa, Zaire, on October 30, 1974—a bout nicknamed The Rumble in the Jungle. Foreman was considered one of the hardest punchers in heavyweight history. In assessing the fight, analysts pointed out that Joe Frazier and Ken Norton, who had given Ali four tough battles and won two of them, had both been devastated by Foreman in second-round knockouts. Ali was 32 years old and had lost speed and reflexes since his twenties. Contrary to his later persona, Foreman was at the time a brooding and intimidating presence. Almost no one associated with the sport, not even Ali's long-time supporter Howard Cosell, gave the former champion a chance of winning.

As usual, Ali was confident and colorful before the fight. He told interviewer David Frost, "If you think the world was surprised when Nixon resigned, wait till I whup Foreman's behind!" He told the press, "I've done something new for this fight. I done wrestled with an alligator, I done tussled with a whale; handcuffed lightning, thrown thunder in jail; only last week, I murdered a rock, injured a stone, hospitalized a brick; I'm so mean I make medicine sick." Ali was wildly popular in Zaire, with crowds chanting "Ali, bomaye" ("Ali, kill him") wherever he went.

Ali opened the fight moving and scoring with right crosses to Foreman's head. Then, beginning in the second round, and to the consternation of his corner, Ali retreated to the ropes and invited Foreman to hit him while covering up, clinching and counterpunching, all while verbally taunting Foreman. The move, which would later become known as the "Rope-a-dope", so violated conventional boxing wisdom—letting one of the hardest hitters in boxing strike at will—that at ringside writer George Plimpton thought the fight had to be fixed. Foreman, increasingly angered, threw punches that were deflected and did not land squarely. Midway through the fight, as Foreman began tiring, Ali countered more frequently and effectively with punches and flurries, which electrified the pro-Ali crowd. In the eighth round, Ali dropped an exhausted Foreman with a combination at center ring; Foreman failed to make the count. Against the odds, and amidst pandemonium in the ring, Ali had regained the title by knockout. Reflecting on the fight, George Foreman later said: "I thought Ali was just one more knockout victim until, about the seventh round, I hit him hard to the jaw and he held me and whispered in my ear: 'That all you got, George?' I realized that this ain't what I thought it was."

It was a major upset victory, after Ali came in as a 4–1 underdog against the previously unbeaten, heavy-hitting Foreman. The fight became famous for Ali's introduction of the rope-a-dope tactic. The fight was watched by a record estimated television audience of 1 billion viewers worldwide. It was the world's most-watched live television broadcast at the time.

Fights against Wepner, Lyle and Bugner

Ali's next opponents included Chuck Wepner, Ron Lyle, and Joe Bugner. Wepner, a journeyman known as "The Bayonne Bleeder", stunned Ali with a knockdown in the ninth round; Ali would later say he tripped on Wepner's foot. The fight inspired Sylvester Stallone to create the acclaimed film Rocky.

Third fight against Joe Frazier

Main article: Thrilla in Manila

Ali then agreed to a third match with Joe Frazier in Manila. The bout, known as the "Thrilla in Manila", was held on October 1, 1975, in temperatures approaching 100 °F (38 °C). In the first rounds, Ali was aggressive, moving and exchanging blows with Frazier. However, Ali soon appeared to tire and adopted the "rope-a-dope" strategy, frequently resorting to clinches. During this part of the bout Ali did some effective counterpunching, but for the most part absorbed punishment from a relentlessly attacking Frazier. In the 12th round, Frazier began to tire, and Ali scored several sharp blows that closed Frazier's left eye and opened a cut over his right eye. With Frazier's vision now diminished, Ali dominated the 13th and 14th rounds, at times conducting what boxing historian Mike Silver called "target practice" on Frazier's head. The fight was stopped when Frazier's trainer, Eddie Futch, refused to allow Frazier to answer the bell for the 15th and final round, despite Frazier's protests. Frazier's eyes were both swollen shut. Ali, in his corner, winner by TKO, slumped on his stool, spent.

An ailing Ali said afterwards that the fight "was the closest thing to dying that I know", and, when later asked if he had viewed the fight on videotape, reportedly said, "Why would I want to go back and see Hell?" After the fight he cited Frazier as "the greatest fighter of all times next to me".

After the third fight with Frazier, Ali considered retirement. He said, "I'm sore all over. My arms, my face, my sides all ache. I'm so, so tired. There is a great possibility that I will retire. You might have seen the last of me. I want to sit back and count my money, live in my house and my farm, work for my people and concentrate on my family."

Later career

On February 2, 1976, Ali defeated Jean-Pierre Coopman by 5th round knockout. The WBC Heavyweight title was not on the line for this fight. On April 30, 1976, Ali would fight Jimmy Young and win a controversial unanimous decision. Howard Cosell would remark that he had "never seen Ali so off in his timing" and when asked on his performance against Young in the post-fight interview, Ali stated that he was "getting old" and that he was "preserving his energy" for Ken Norton. On May 24, 1976, Ali defeated Richard Dunn, winning by 5th round technical knockout. The punch used to knock Dunn out was taught to Ali by Taekwondo Grandmaster Jhoon Rhee. Rhee called that punch the "Accupunch"; he learned it from Bruce Lee. The Dunn fight was the last time Ali would knock an opponent out in his boxing career.

Ali fought Ken Norton for the third time in September 1976. The bout, which was held at Yankee Stadium, resulted in Ali winning a controversial decision that ringside commentators had scored in favor of Norton. Afterwards, he announced he was retiring from boxing to practice his faith, having converted to Sunni Islam after falling out with the Nation of Islam the previous year.

After returning to beat Alfredo Evangelista in May 1977, Ali struggled in his next fight against Earnie Shavers that September, getting pummeled a few times by punches to the head. Ali won the fight by another unanimous decision, but the bout caused his longtime doctor Ferdie Pacheco to quit after he was rebuffed for telling Ali he should retire. Pacheco was quoted as saying, "the New York State Athletic Commission gave me a report that showed Ali's kidneys were falling apart. I wrote to Angelo Dundee, Ali's trainer, his wife and Ali himself. I got nothing back in response. That's when I decided enough is enough."

In February 1978, Ali faced Leon Spinks at the Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas. At the time, Spinks had only seven professional fights to his credit, and had recently fought a draw with journeyman Scott LeDoux. Ali sparred less than two dozen rounds in preparation for the fight and was seriously out of shape by the opening bell. He lost the title by split decision. A rematch occurred in September at the Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. 70,000 people attended the bout and paid a total of $6 million admission, making it the largest live gate in boxing history at that time. Ali won a unanimous decision in an uninspiring fight, with referee Lucien Joubert scoring rounds 10–4, judge Ernie Cojoe 10–4, and judge Herman Preis 11–4. This made Ali the first heavyweight champion to win the belt three times.

Following this win, on July 27, 1979, Ali announced his retirement from boxing. His retirement was short-lived, however; Ali announced his comeback to face Larry Holmes for the WBC belt in an attempt to win the heavyweight championship an unprecedented fourth time. The fight was largely motivated by Ali's need for money. Boxing writer Richie Giachetti said, "Larry didn't want to fight Ali. He knew Ali had nothing left; he knew it would be a horror."

It was around this time that Ali started struggling with vocal stutters and trembling hands. The Nevada Athletic Commission (NAC) ordered that he undergo a complete physical in Las Vegas before being allowed to fight again. Ali chose instead to check into the Mayo Clinic, who declared him fit to fight. Their opinion was accepted by the NAC on July 31, 1980, paving the way for Ali's return to the ring.

Fight stoppage vs. Larry Holmes

Main article: Larry Holmes vs. Muhammad Ali

On October 2, 1980, Ali returned to the ring to fight Holmes at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Holmes, who fought under the nickname "The Easton Assassin", easily dominated Ali. After the tenth round, Angelo Dundee stepped into the ring and instructed the referee to stop the fight. It was the only time Ali ever lost by stoppage.

Immediately after the fight, Ali was given painkillers and antidepressants, in violation of World Boxing Council rules prohibiting the administration of any drug before the postfight urinalysis.

Giachetti called the fight "awful...the worst sports event I ever had to cover". Actor Sylvester Stallone was ringside for the fight and said that it was like watching an autopsy on a man who is still alive. The Holmes fight is said to have contributed to Ali's Parkinson's syndrome. Despite pleas to definitively retire, Ali fought one last time on December 11, 1981, in Nassau, Bahamas, against Trevor Berbick, losing a ten-round decision.

Exhibition bouts

Ali boxed both well-known boxers and celebrities from other walks of life, including Antonio Inoki, Michael Dokes, Sammy Davis Jr., Richard Pryor, Marvin Gaye, Burt Young, Lyle Alzado, Dave Semenko, and Puerto Rican comedian Jose Miguel Agrelot (with Iris Chacon acting as Agrelot's corner-woman).

Ali vs Inoki

Main article: Muhammad Ali vs. Antonio Inoki

On June 26, 1976, Ali participated in an exhibition bout in Tokyo against Japanese professional wrestler and martial artist Antonio Inoki. Ali was only able to land two jabs while Inoki's kicks caused two blood clots and an infection that almost resulted in Ali's leg being amputated, as a result of Ali's team insisting on rules restricting Inoki's ability to wrestle. Because of this, the fight has been criticized for causing Ali trouble healthwise, mostly in terms of movement, later down the line; Ferdie Pacheco stated "Ali was still feeling the effects of his leg injury, and his mobility was not what it had been". The match was not scripted and ultimately declared a draw. After Ali's death, The New York Times declared it his least memorable fight. Most boxing commentators at the time viewed the fight negatively and hoped it would be forgotten as some considered it a "15-round farce". Today it is considered by some to be one of Ali's most influential fights and CBS Sports said the attention the mixed-style bout received "foretold the arrival of standardized MMA years later". Ali and Inoki began a friendship after the fight.

Ali vs Alzado

In 1979, Ali fought an exhibition match against NFL player Lyle Alzado. The fight went 8 rounds and was declared a draw.

Ali vs Semenko

Ali fought NHL player, Dave Semenko in an exhibition on June 12, 1983. The match was officially a draw after going three rounds, but the Canadian Press reported Ali was not seriously trying for most of the bout, instead just toying with Semenko.

Personal life

Marriages and children

Children of Muhammad Ali

• With Belinda Boyd
  • Maryum (born 1968)
  • Jamillah (born 1970)
  • Rasheda (born 1970)
  • Muhammad Jr. (born 1972)
• With Patricia Harvell
  • Miya (born 1972)
• With Wanda Bolton
  • Khaliah (born 1974)
• With Veronica Porché
  • Hana (born 1976)
  • Laila (born 1977)
• With Yolanda Williams
  • Asaad (adopted 1986)

Ali was married four times and had seven daughters and two sons. Ali was introduced to cocktail waitress Sonji Roi by Herbert Muhammad, who was to become Ali's long-time manager, and asked her to marry him after their first date. They married approximately one month later on August 14, 1964. They quarreled over Sonji's refusal to join the Nation of Islam. According to Ali, "She wouldn't do what she was supposed to do. She wore lipstick; she went into bars; she dressed in clothes that were revealing and didn't look right." The marriage was childless and they divorced on January 10, 1966. Just before the divorce was finalized, Ali sent Sonji a note: "You traded heaven for hell, baby." Ali's brother Rahaman said that she was Ali's only true love and the Nation of Islam made Ali divorce her and Ali never got over it.

On August 17, 1967, Ali married Belinda Boyd. In an interview with NBC 6, Boyd recounted meeting Ali when she was 10 years old at her hometown mosque. "He said, 'Listen here little girl. This is my name. Imma be famous. You need to keep that 'cause it's gone be worth a lot of money,'" Boyd said, mimicking Ali. "You'll never be famous with that name. And, I walked away," Boyd said. Born into a Chicago family that had converted to the Nation Of Islam, she later changed her name to Khalilah Ali, though she was still called Belinda by old friends and family. They had four children: author and rapper Maryum "May May" (born 1968); twins Jamillah and Rasheda (born 1970); and Muhammad Ali Jr. (born 1972). Rasheda married Robert Walsh and has two sons: Biaggio Ali (born 1998), who is an amateur MMA fighter, and Nico Ali (born 2000), who is a professional boxer.

Ali was a resident of Cherry Hill, New Jersey in suburban Philadelphia in the early 1970s. At age 32 in 1974, Ali began an extramarital relationship with 16-year-old Wanda Bolton (who subsequently changed her name to Aaisha Ali) with whom he fathered another daughter, Khaliah (born June 1974). While still married to Belinda, Ali married Aaisha a year later in an Islamic ceremony that was not legally recognized. According to Khaliah, Aaisha and her mother lived at Ali's Deer Lake training camp alongside Belinda and her children. In January 1985, Aaisha sued Ali for unpaid palimony. The case was settled when Ali agreed to set up a $200,000 trust fund for Khaliah. In 2001 Khaliah was quoted as saying she believed her father viewed her as "a mistake". He had another daughter, Miya (born 1972), from an extramarital relationship with Patricia Harvell.

By the summer of 1977, his second marriage ended due to Ali's repeated infidelity, and he had married actress and model Veronica Porché. At the time of their marriage, they had a daughter, Hana, and Veronica was pregnant with their second child. Their second daughter, Laila Ali, was born in December 1977, and went on to become a professional boxer. By 1986, Ali and Porché were divorced due to Ali's continuous infidelity. Porché said of Ali's infidelity, "It was too much temptation for him, with women who threw themselves at him. It didn't mean anything. He didn't have affairs – he had one-night stands. I knew beyond a doubt there were no feelings involved. It was so obvious, It was easy to forgive him."

On November 19, 1986, Ali married Yolanda "Lonnie" Williams. Lonnie first met Ali at the age of 6 when her family moved to Louisville in 1963. In 1982, she became Ali's primary caregiver and in return, he paid for her to attend graduate school at UCLA. Together they adopted a son, Asaad Amin (born 1986), when Asaad was five months old. In 1992, Lonnie incorporated Greatest of All Time, Inc. (G.O.A.T. Inc) to consolidate and license his intellectual properties for commercial purposes. She served as the vice president and treasurer until the sale of the company in 2006.

Ali then lived in Scottsdale, Arizona with Lonnie. In January 2007, it was reported that they had put their home in Berrien Springs, Michigan, which they had bought in 1975, up for sale and had purchased a home in eastern Jefferson County, Kentucky for $1,875,000. Both homes were subsequently sold after Ali's death with Lonnie living in their remaining home in Paradise Valley, Arizona. Lonnie converted to Islam from Catholicism in her late twenties.

Ali's daughter Laila was a professional boxer from 1999 until 2007, despite her father's previous opposition to women's boxing. In 1978, he said "Women are not made to be hit in the breast, and face like that." Ali still attended a number of his daughter's fights. Ali's daughter Hana is married to Bellator middleweight fighter Kevin Casey. Hana wrote about her father, "His love for people was extraordinary. I would get home from school to find homeless families sleeping in our guest room. He'd see them on the street, pile them into his Rolls-Royce and bring them home. He'd buy them clothes, take them to hotels and pay the bills for months in advance." She also said celebrities like Michael Jackson and Clint Eastwood would often visit Ali.

Paternity claims

Kiiursti Mensah-Ali claims she is Ali's biological daughter with Barbara Mensah, with whom he allegedly had a 20-year relationship, citing photographs and a paternity test conducted in 1988. She said he accepted responsibility and took care of her, but all contacts with him were cut off after he married his fourth wife Lonnie. Kiiursti says she has a relationship with his other children. After his death she again made passionate appeals to be allowed to mourn at his funeral.

In 2010, Osmon Williams came forward claiming to be Ali's biological son. His mother Temica Williams (also known as Rebecca Holloway) launched a $3 million lawsuit against Ali in 1981 for sexual assault, claiming that she had started a sexual relationship with him when she was 12, and that her son Osmon (born 1977) was fathered by Ali when she was 17. She further alleged that Ali had originally supported her and her son financially, but stopped doing so after four years. The case went on until 1986 and was eventually thrown out as her allegations were deemed to be barred by the statute of limitations. According to Veronica, Ali admitted to the affair with Williams, but did not believe Osmon was his son which Veronica supported by saying "Everybody in the camp was going with that girl." Ali's biographer and friend Thomas Hauser has said this claim was of "questionable veracity".

Religion and beliefs

Main article: Religious views of Muhammad Ali

Affiliation with the Nation of Islam

Ali said that he first heard of the Nation of Islam when he was fighting in the Golden Gloves tournament in Chicago in 1959 and attended his first Nation of Islam meeting in 1961. He continued to attend meetings, although he kept his involvement hidden from the public. In 1962, Clay met Malcolm X, who soon became his spiritual and political mentor. By the time of the first Liston fight, Nation of Islam members, including Malcolm X, were visible in his entourage. This led to a story in The Miami Herald just before the fight disclosing that Clay had joined the Nation of Islam, which nearly caused the bout to be canceled. The article quoted Cassius Clay Sr. as saying that his son had joined the Black Muslims when he was 18.

In fact, Clay was initially refused entry to the Nation of Islam (often called the Black Muslims at the time) due to his boxing career. However, after he won the championship from Liston in 1964, the Nation of Islam was more receptive and agreed to publicize his membership. Shortly afterwards on March 6, Elijah Muhammad gave a radio address that Clay would be renamed Muhammad (one who is worthy of praise) Ali (most high). Around that time Ali moved to the south side of Chicago and lived in a series of houses, always near the Nation of Islam's Mosque Maryam or Elijah Muhammad's residence. He stayed in Chicago for about 12 years.

Only a few journalists, most notably Howard Cosell, accepted the new name at that time. Ali stated that his earlier name was a "slave name" and a "white man's name" and added that "I didn't choose it and I don't want it. I am Muhammad Ali, a free name". The person he was formerly named after was a white slave owner turned abolitionist. Ali explained in his autobiography after studying his works, "he may have gotten rid of his slaves, but (he) held on to white supremacy." Ali concluded: "Why should I keep my white slavemaster's name visible and my black ancestors invisible, unknown, unhonored?"

Not afraid to antagonize the white establishment, Ali stated, "I am America. I am the part you won't recognize. But get used to me. Black, confident, cocky; my name, not yours; my religion, not yours; my goals, my own; get used to me." Ali's friendship with Malcolm X ended as Malcolm split with the Nation of Islam a couple of weeks after Ali joined, and Ali remained with the Nation of Islam. Ali later said that turning his back on Malcolm was one of the mistakes he regretted most in his life.

Aligning himself with the Nation of Islam, its leader Elijah Muhammad, and a narrative that labeled the white race as the perpetrator of genocide against African Americans made Ali a target of public condemnation. The Nation of Islam was widely viewed by whites and some African Americans as a black separatist "hate religion" with a propensity toward violence; Ali had few qualms about using his influential voice to speak Nation of Islam doctrine. In a press conference articulating his opposition to the Vietnam War, Ali stated, "My enemy is the white people, not Vietcong or Chinese or Japanese." In relation to integration, he said: "We who follow the teachings of Elijah Muhammad don't want to be forced to integrate. Integration is wrong. We don't want to live with the white man; that's all."

Writer Jerry Izenberg once noted that, "the Nation became Ali's family and Elijah Muhammad became his father. But there is an irony to the fact that while the Nation branded white people as devils, Ali had more white colleagues than most African American people did at that time in America, and continued to have them throughout his career."

Conversion to Sunni Islam

In Hauser's biography Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times, Ali stated that he was not a Christian as he thought the idea of God having a son sounded wrong and did not make sense to him, stating, "God don't beget; man begets". However, he still believed that even good Christians or good Jews could receive God's blessing and enter heaven as he stated, "God created all people, no matter what their religion". He also stated, "If you're against someone because he's a Muslim that's wrong. If you're against someone because he's a Christian or a Jew, that's wrong".

In a 2004 autobiography, Ali attributed his conversion to mainstream Sunni Islam to Warith Deen Muhammad, who assumed leadership of the Nation of Islam upon the death of his father Elijah Muhammad and persuaded the Nation's followers to become adherents of Sunni Islam. He said some people did not like the change and stuck to Elijah's teachings, but he admired it, and so left Elijah's teachings and became a follower of Sunni Islam.

Ali had gone on the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca in 1972, which inspired him in a similar manner to Malcolm X, meeting people of different colors from all over the world giving him a different outlook and greater spiritual awareness. In 1977, he said that, after he retired, he would dedicate the rest of his life to getting "ready to meet God" by helping people, charitable causes, uniting people and helping to make peace. He went on another Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca in 1988.

After the September 11 attacks in 2001, he stated that "Islam is a religion of peace" and "does not promote terrorism or killing people", and that he was "angry that the world sees a certain group of Islam followers who caused this destruction, but they are not real Muslims. They are racist fanatics who call themselves Muslims." In December 2015, after the November 2015 Paris attacks, he stated that "True Muslims know that the ruthless violence of so-called Islamic jihadists goes against the very tenets of our religion", that "We as Muslims have to stand up to those who use Islam to advance their own personal agenda", and that "political leaders should use their position to bring understanding about the religion of Islam, and clarify that these misguided murderers have perverted people's views on what Islam really is."

He also developed an interest in Sufism, which he referenced in his autobiography, The Soul of a Butterfly. According to Ali's daughter, Hana Yasmeen Ali, who co-authored The Soul of a Butterfly with him, Ali was attracted to Sufism after reading the books of Inayat Khan, which contain Sufi teachings.

Muhammad Ali received guidance from Islamic scholars such as Grand Mufti of Syria Al Marhum Al Sheikh Ahmed Kuftaro, Hisham Kabbani, Imam Zaid Shakir, Hamza Yusuf, and Timothy J. Gianotti, who planned his funeral.

Health

During his amateur career, Ali refrained from smoking, drugs, and drinking alcohol and soda pop, and adopted an idiosyncratic diet. Upon his acceptance of the dietary restrictions of Islam, the Nation of Islam recruited cooks to prepare his meals.

Entertainment career

Further information: Muhammad Ali in media and popular culture

Acting

Ali had a cameo role in the 1962 film version of Requiem for a Heavyweight, and during his exile from boxing, he starred in the short-lived 1969 Broadway musical, Buck White. He also appeared in the documentary film Black Rodeo (1972) riding both a horse and a bull.

His autobiography The Greatest: My Own Story, written with Richard Durham, was published in 1975. In 1977 the book was adapted into a film called The Greatest, in which Ali played himself and Ernest Borgnine played Angelo Dundee.

The film Freedom Road, made in 1978, features Ali in a rare acting role as Gideon Jackson, a former slave and Union (American Civil War) soldier in 1870s Virginia, who gets elected to the U.S. Senate and battles alongside former slaves and white sharecroppers to keep the land they have tended all their lives.

Spoken word poetry

Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee.
His hands can't hit what his eyes can't see.
Now you see me, now you don't.
George thinks he will, but I know he won't.

— Muhammad Ali

In 1963, Ali released an album of spoken word music on Columbia Records titled, I Am the Greatest, and in 1964, he recorded a cover version of the rhythm and blues song "Stand by Me". I Am the Greatest sold 500,000 copies, and has been identified as an early example of rap music and a precursor to hip hop. It reached number 61 on the album chart and was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album at the 6th Annual Grammy Awards in 1964. He later received a second Grammy nomination, for "Best Recording for Children", with his 1976 spoken word novelty record, The Adventures of Ali and His Gang vs. Mr. Tooth Decay.

Professional wrestling

Ali was involved with professional wrestling at different times in his career.

On June 1, 1976, as Ali was preparing for his bout with Inoki, he attended a match featuring Gorilla Monsoon. After the match was over, Ali removed his shirt and jacket and confronted professional wrestler Gorilla Monsoon in the ring after his match at a World Wide Wrestling Federation show in Philadelphia Arena. After dodging a few punches, Monsoon put Ali in an airplane spin and dumped him to the mat. Ali stumbled to the corner, where his associate Butch Lewis convinced him to walk away.

On March 31, 1985, Ali was the special guest referee for the main event of the inaugural WrestleMania event.

In 1995, Ali led a group of Japanese and American professional wrestlers, including his 1976 opponent Antonio Inoki and Ric Flair, on a sports diplomacy mission to North Korea. Ali was guest of honor at the record-breaking Collision in Korea, a wrestling event with the largest attendance of all time.

Ali was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by The Undertaker at the 2024 ceremony.

Television appearances

Further information: Boxing career of Muhammad Ali § Television viewership

Muhammad Ali's fights were some of the world's most-watched television broadcasts, setting television viewership records. His most-watched fights drew an estimated 1–2 billion viewers worldwide between 1974 and 1980, and were the world's most-watched live television broadcasts at the time. Outside of fights, he made many other television appearances. The following table lists known viewership figures of his non-fight television appearances. For television viewership figures of his fights, see Boxing career of Muhammad Ali: Television viewership.

Date	Broadcast	Region(s)	Viewers	Source
October 17, 1971	Parkinson (series 1, episode 14)	United Kingdom	12,000,000
January 25, 1974	Parkinson (series 3, episode 18)	United Kingdom	12,000,000
December 7, 1974	Parkinson	United Kingdom	12,000,000
March 28, 1977	49th Academy Awards	United States	39,719,000
December 25, 1978	This Is Your Life ("Muhammad Ali")	United States	60,000,000
October 24, 1979	Diff'rent Strokes ("Arnold's Hero")	United States	41,000,000
January 17, 1981	Parkinson (series 10, episode 32)	United Kingdom	12,000,000
July 19, 1996	Atlanta 1996 Summer Olympics opening ceremony	Worldwide	3,500,000,000
		United States	209,000,000
September 21, 2001	America: A Tribute to Heroes	United States	60,000,000
January 4, 2007	Michael Parkinson's Greatest Entertainers	United Kingdom	3,630,000
June 9, 2016	Muhammad Ali memorial service	Worldwide	1,000,000,000
	Total viewership	Worldwide	4,692,349,000

Art

Ali was also an amateur artist and made dozens of drawings and paintings in the 1970s. In 1977, Rodney Hilton Brown, who owned an art gallery in NYC, asked Ali if he was interested in painting. Ali took him up on the offer and produced several paintings for him to sell. Brown is the author of "Muhammad Ali: The Untold Story: Painter, Poet and Prophet". In October 2021, 26 of his drawings and arts were placed on auction and sold for close to US$1 Million.

Later life

By the end of his boxing career Ali had absorbed an estimated 200,000 hits.

In 1984, Ali was diagnosed with Parkinson's syndrome, which sometimes results from head trauma from violent physical activities such as boxing. Ali still remained active during this time, later participating as a guest referee at WrestleMania I.

Philanthropy, humanitarianism and politics

Ali was known for being a humanitarian and philanthropist. He focused on practicing his Islamic duty of charity and good deeds, donating millions to charity organizations and disadvantaged people of all religious backgrounds. It is estimated that Ali helped to feed more than 22 million people afflicted by hunger across the world. Early in his career, one of his main focuses was youth education. He spoke at several historically black colleges and universities about the importance of education and became the largest single black donor to the United Negro College Fund in 1967 by way of a $10,000 donation ($78,000 in 2020 USD). In late 1966, he also pledged to donate a total of $100,000 to the UNCF (specifically promising to donate much of the proceeds of his title defense against Cleveland Williams) and paid $4,500 per closed circuit installation at six HBCUs so they could watch his fights.

Ali began visiting Africa, starting in 1964 when he visited Nigeria and Ghana. In 1974, he visited a Palestinian refugee camp in Southern Lebanon, where Ali declared "support for the Palestinian struggle to liberate their homeland". During that visit Ali also declared that the "United States is the stronghold of Zionism and imperialism." In 1978, following his loss to Spinks and before winning the rematch, Ali visited Bangladesh and received honorary citizenship there. The same year, he participated in The Longest Walk, a protest march in the United States in support of Native American rights, along with singer Stevie Wonder and actor Marlon Brando.

In early 1980, Ali was recruited by President Jimmy Carter for a diplomatic mission to Africa, in an effort to persuade a number of African governments to join the US-led boycott of the Moscow Olympics in protest of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Having arrived in Tanzania, Ali told cameras, "Russia is invading a Muslim country, Asiatic country," and that its probable intention to head to oil-rich Persia to take wells and ports "could lead to nuclear war. My purpose in coming here was to try to stop that." However, according to Ali biographer Thomas Hauser, "at best, it was ill-conceived; at worst, a diplomatic disaster." The Tanzanian government was insulted that Carter had sent an athlete to discuss a serious political issue. One official asked whether the United States would "send Chris Evert to negotiate with London". Consequently, Ali was only received by the youth and culture minister, rather than President Julius Nyerere. Ali was unable to explain why the African countries should join the US boycott when it had failed to support the African boycott of the 1976 Olympics (in protest of Apartheid in South Africa), although neither did the Soviet Union, and was unaware of the sentiment that the Soviet Union had backed some popular revolutions on the continent, although none of the countries on the itinerary were Soviet allies. The Nigerian government also rebuffed him and confirmed that they would be participating in the Moscow Games. Ali did, however, convince the government of Kenya to boycott the Soviet Olympics.

On January 19, 1981, in Los Angeles, Ali talked a suicidal man down from jumping off a ninth-floor ledge, an event that made national news.

In 1984, Ali announced his support for the re-election of United States President Ronald Reagan. When asked to elaborate on his endorsement of Reagan, Ali told reporters, "He's keeping God in schools and that's enough." In 1985, he visited Israel to request the release of Muslim prisoners at Atlit detainee camp, which Israel declined.

Around 1987, the California Bicentennial Foundation for the U.S. Constitution selected Ali to personify the vitality of the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights. Ali rode on a float at the following year's Tournament of Roses Parade, launching the U.S. Constitution's 200th birthday commemoration. In 1988, during the First Intifada, Ali participated in a Chicago rally in support of Palestine. The same year, he visited Sudan to raise awareness about the plight of famine victims. According to Politico, Ali supported Orrin Hatch politically. In 1989, he participated in an Indian charity event with the Muslim Educational Society in Kozhikode, Kerala, along with Bollywood actor Dilip Kumar.

In 1990, Ali traveled to Iraq prior to the Gulf War and met with president Saddam Hussein in an attempt to negotiate the release of American hostages. Ali secured the release of the hostages, in exchange for promising Hussein that he would bring America "an honest account" of Iraq. Despite arranging the hostages' release, he received criticism from president George H. W. Bush, and Joseph C. Wilson, the highest-ranking American diplomat in Baghdad.

In 1994, Ali campaigned to the United States government to come to the aid of refugees afflicted by the Rwandan genocide, and to donate to organizations helping Rwandan refugees.

In 1996, he lit the flame at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia. It was watched by an estimated 3.5 billion viewers worldwide.

After Ali met a lesbian couple who were fans of his in 1997, he smiled and said to friend and biographer Thomas Hauser, "They look like they're happy together." Hauser wrote about the story, "The thought that Liz and Roz (the lesbian couple he met) were happy pleased Muhammad. Ali wanted people to be happy."

On November 17, 2002, Ali went to Afghanistan as the "U.N. Messenger of Peace". He was in Kabul for a three-day goodwill mission as a special guest of the UN.

On September 1, 2009, Ali visited Ennis, County Clare, Ireland, the home of his great-grandfather, Abe Grady, who emigrated to the U.S. in the 1860s, eventually settling in Kentucky.

On July 27, 2012, Ali was a titular bearer of the Olympic flag during the opening ceremonies of the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. He was helped to his feet by his wife Lonnie to stand before the flag due to his Parkinson's syndrome rendering him unable to carry it into the stadium. The same year, he was awarded the Philadelphia Liberty Medal in recognition of his lifelong efforts in activism, philanthropy and humanitarianism.

Earnings

By 1978, Ali's total fight purse earnings were estimated to be nearly $60 million (inflation-adjusted $379 million), including an estimated $47.45 million grossed between 1970 and 1978. By 1980, his total fight purse earnings were estimated to be up to $70 million (inflation-adjusted $338 million).

In 1978, Ali revealed that he was "broke" and several news outlets reported his net worth to be an estimated $3.5 million (inflation-adjusted $16 million). The press attributed his decline in wealth to several factors, including taxes consuming at least half of his income, management taking a third of his income, his lifestyle, and spending on family, charity and religious causes.

In 2006, Ali sold his name and image for $50 million, after which Forbes estimated his net worth to be $55 million in 2006. Following his death in 2016, his fortune was estimated to be between $50 million and $80 million.

Declining health

I'm blessed and thankful to God that I understand he's trying me. This is a trial from God. He gave me this illness to remind me that I am not number one; He is.

—Muhammad Ali reflecting on having Parkinson's disease

Ali's Parkinson's syndrome led to a gradual decline in his health, though he was still active into the early 2000s, promoting his own biopic, Ali, in 2001. That year he also contributed an on-camera segment to the America: A Tribute to Heroes benefit concert.

In 1998, Ali began working with actor Michael J. Fox, who has Parkinson's disease, to raise awareness and fund research for a cure. They made a joint appearance before Congress to push the case in 2002. In 2000, Ali worked with the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research to raise awareness and encourage donations for research.

In February 2013, Ali's brother Rahaman Ali said Muhammad could no longer speak and could be dead within days. Ali's daughter May May Ali responded to the rumors, stating that she had talked to him on the phone the morning of February 3 and he was fine. On December 20, 2014, Ali was hospitalized for a mild case of pneumonia. Ali was once again hospitalized on January 15, 2015, for a urinary tract infection after being found unresponsive at a guest house in Scottsdale, Arizona. He was released the next day.

Death

Ali was hospitalized in Scottsdale, Arizona, on June 2, 2016, with a respiratory illness. Though his condition was initially described as fair, it worsened, and he died the following day at the age of 74 from septic shock.

News coverage and tributes

Following Ali's death, he was the number-one trending topic on Twitter for over 12 hours and on Facebook for several days. BET played their documentary Muhammad Ali: Made In Miami. ESPN played four hours of non-stop commercial-free coverage of Ali. News networks, such as ABC News, BBC, CNN, and Fox News, also covered him extensively.

He was mourned globally, and a family spokesman said the family "certainly believes that Muhammad was a citizen of the world ... and they know that the world grieves with him". Politicians such as Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, Bill Clinton, Donald Trump, David Cameron and more paid tribute to Ali. Ali also received numerous tributes from the world of sports including Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, the Miami Marlins, LeBron James, Steph Curry and more. Then-Louisville mayor Greg Fischer stated, "Muhammad Ali belongs to the world. But he only has one hometown."

The day after Ali's death, the UFC paid tribute to Ali at their UFC 199 event in a lengthy video tribute package, crediting Ali for his accomplishments and inspiring multiple UFC champions.

Memorial

External videos
"Muhammad Ali Memorial Service", C-SPAN

Ali's funeral had been pre-planned by himself and others for several years prior to his actual death. The services began in Louisville on June 9, 2016, with an Islamic Janazah prayer service at Freedom Hall on the grounds of the Kentucky Exposition Center. The Janazah prayer was attended by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. On June 10, 2016, the funeral procession passed through the streets of Louisville ending at Cave Hill Cemetery, where his body was interred during a private ceremony. A public memorial service for Ali at downtown Louisville's KFC Yum! Center was held during the afternoon of June 10. Billy Crystal, his wife Lonnie Ali, sports journalist Bryant Gumbel and former President Bill Clinton all gave the eulogies. The pallbearers included Will Smith, Lennox Lewis and Mike Tyson, with honorary pallbearers including George Chuvalo, Larry Holmes and George Foreman. Ali's memorial was watched by an estimated 1 billion viewers worldwide.

If the measure of greatness is to gladden the heart of every human being on the face of the earth, then he truly was the greatest. In every way he was the bravest, the kindest and the most excellent of men.

— Tribute from Bob Dylan.

Legacy

In boxing

Ali remains the only three-time lineal heavyweight champion. He is the only boxer to be named The Ring magazine Fighter of the Year six times and was involved in more Ring "Fight of the Year" bouts than any other fighter. He was one of only three boxers to be named "Sportsman of the Year" by Sports Illustrated. He was also named BBC Overseas Sports Personality of the Year three times.

Ali was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in its first year and held wins over seven other Hall of Fame inductees during an era that has been called the golden age of heavyweight boxing. His joint records of beating 21 boxers for the world heavyweight title and winning 14 unified title bouts stood for 35 years.

In hip-hop

I've wrestled with alligators, I've tussled with a whale.
I done handcuffed lightning and throw thunder in jail.
You know I'm bad.
Just last week, I murdered a rock, injured a stone, hospitalized a brick.
I'm so mean, I make medicine sick.

— Muhammad Ali

Ali often used rhyme schemes and spoken word poetry when trash talking in boxing, and also delivered political poetry in his activism outside of boxing. He played a role in the shaping of the black poetic tradition, paving the way for The Last Poets in 1968, Gil Scott-Heron in 1970, and the emergence of rap music in the 1970s. Ali has been referred to as "the first rapper". As a "rhyming trickster", he was noted for his boasts, "funky delivery", "comical trash talk", and "endless quotables". Rolling Stone notes his "freestyle skills" and his "rhymes, flow, and braggadocio" would "one day become typical of old school MCs like Run DMC and LL Cool J", and his "outsized ego foreshadowed the vainglorious excesses of Kanye West, while his Afrocentric consciousness and cutting honesty pointed forward to modern bards like Rakim, Nas, Jay-Z, and Kendrick Lamar."

In 2006, the documentary Ali Rap was produced by ESPN, with Chuck D of Public Enemy as the host. Other rappers narrated the documentary as well, including Doug E Fresh, Ludacris and Rakim who all spoke on Ali's behalf in the film.

Ali has been cited as an inspiration by many celebrated rappers, throughout the following decades, such as LL Cool J, Chuck D, Jay-Z, Eminem, Sean Combs, Slick Rick, Nas and MC Lyte, and is frequently mentioned in popular hip-hop songs.

In Ali's hometown

In 1978, shortly after becoming heavyweight champion of the world for the third time, and three years before his permanent retirement, Ali received a round of accolades in his hometown of Louisville. In September, at a tribute ceremony held at Fairgrounds Stadium, then-Governor of Kentucky Julian Carroll proclaimed 1978 the "Year of Ali" and presented to Ali the Governor's Distinguished Service Award. Carroll said he signed the proclamation because "no single day or week – or even month – ever could contain the deeds of this man." In November, the Louisville Board of Aldermen voted 6–5 to rename downtown thoroughfare Walnut Street to Muhammad Ali Boulevard, via an ordinance shortly signed into law by then-Mayor William B. Stansbury. This was controversial at the time, as within a week 12 of the 70 street signs were stolen.

As the street renaming was under consideration, a committee of the Jefferson County Public Schools (Kentucky) considered renaming Ali's alma mater, Central High School, in his honor. Despite an initial endorsement by then-Jefferson County Judge/Executive and current U.S. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, and an affirmative vote by the Jefferson County Fiscal Court, the committee decided not to proceed, citing long-time school tradition and alumni disagreement, even though they urged other ways to honor Ali in the community. In time, Muhammad Ali Boulevard—and Ali himself—came to be well accepted in his hometown.

In November 2005, Ali and his wife Lonnie Ali opened the $54 million, 93,000 ft, non-profit Muhammad Ali Center in downtown Louisville. In addition to displaying his boxing memorabilia, the center focuses on core themes of peace, social responsibility, respect, and personal growth.

On January 16, 2019, the Louisville Regional Airport Authority voted to change the name of the city's main airport to "Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport" in honor of Ali. Then-Louisville mayor Greg Fischer upon the occasion said:

Muhammad Ali belonged to the world, but he only had one hometown, and fortunately, that is our great city of Louisville. Muhammad became one of the most well-known people to ever walk the Earth and has left a legacy of humanitarianism and athleticism that has inspired billions of people. It important that we, as a city, further champion The Champ's legacy, and the airport renaming is a wonderful next step.

On June 6, 2019, the airport unveiled its new logo, featuring "Ali's silhouette, arms up and victorious, against the background of a butterfly."

Around the US and world

Martial artist and actor Bruce Lee was influenced by Ali, whose footwork he studied and incorporated into his own style while developing Jeet Kune Do in the 1960s.

Opened in 1976, Ali Mall, located in Araneta Center, Quezon City, Philippines, is named after Ali. Construction of the mall, the first of its kind in the Philippines, began shortly after his victory in a match with Joe Frazier in nearby Araneta Coliseum in 1975. Ali attended its opening. The Muhammad Ali vs. Antonio Inoki fight the same year played an important role in the history of mixed martial arts. In Japan, the match inspired Inoki's students Masakatsu Funaki and Minoru Suzuki to found Pancrase in 1993, which in turn inspired the foundation of Pride Fighting Championships in 1997. Pride was acquired by its rival, Ultimate Fighting Championship, in 2007.

Ali was the recipient of the 1997 Arthur Ashe Courage Award. He was presented with the Presidential Citizens Medal by President Bill Clinton in January 2001 and with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President George W. Bush in November 2005. For his work with the civil rights movement and the United Nations, he received the Otto Hahn Peace Medal in Gold from the UN Association of Germany (DGVN) in Berlin in December 2005.

The Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act was introduced in 1999 and passed in 2000, to protect the rights and welfare of boxers in the United States. In May 2016, a bill was introduced to United States Congress by Markwayne Mullin, a politician and former MMA fighter, to extend the Ali Act to mixed martial arts. In June 2016, US senator Rand Paul proposed an amendment to the US draft laws named after Ali, a proposal to eliminate the Selective Service System.

In June 2007, Ali received an honorary doctorate of humanities at Princeton University's 260th graduation ceremony.

In 2015, Sports Illustrated renamed its Sportsman Legacy Award to the Sports Illustrated's Muhammad Ali Legacy Award. The annual award was originally created in 2008 and honors former "sports figures who embody the ideals of sportsmanship, leadership and philanthropy as vehicles for changing the world". Ali first appeared on the magazine's cover in 1963 and went on to be featured on numerous covers during his storied career.

The Society of Voice Arts and Sciences created the Muhammad Ali Voice of Humanity Honor in 2016, which is presented at its annual Voice Arts Awards. The award was created in collaboration with the Muhammad Ali Center and is presented to "an individual whose voice, through humanitarianism, activism or personal sacrifice, has made a decidedly positive impact on our national or global condition as a society". Sculptor Marc Mellon created the bronze sculpture for the award, which depicts Ali mid-speech. Recipients of the honor include Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Ken Burns, Vance Jones, Lonnie Ali, Stacey Abrams, Wes Studi, and Manuela Testolini.

In January 2017, the Muhammad Ali Commemorative Coin Act was introduced into the 115th Congress but was not enacted.

20th-century superlatives

By the end of the 20th century, Ali had made it onto several superlatives lists or otherwise was mentioned in superlative terms covering the century or a large portion thereof.

Ali was ranked at or near the top of most lists of the 20th century's greatest boxers. He was crowned Sportsman of the Century by Sports Illustrated. Named BBC's Sports Personality of the Century, he received more votes than the other five candidates combined. The Associated Press ranked him as the second best boxer and best heavyweight of the 20th century. He was named Athlete of the Century by USA Today, and ranked as the third greatest North American athlete of the 20th century by ESPN SportsCentury. Ali was named "Kentucky Athlete of the Century" by the Kentucky Athletic Hall of Fame in ceremonies at the Galt House East.

Ali was named one of the 100 most influential Americans of the 20th century by Life magazine in 1990. In 1993, the Associated Press reported that Ali was tied with Babe Ruth as the most recognized athlete, out of over 800 dead or living athletes, in America. The study found that over 97% of Americans over 12 years of age identified both Ali and Ruth. In 1999, he was one of three athletes, alongside Pelé and Jackie Robinson, named in Time magazine's list of the 100 Most Important People of the 20th Century.

In media and popular culture

Main article: Muhammad Ali in media and popular culture

As a world champion boxer, social activist, heartthrob and pop culture icon, Ali was the subject of numerous creative works including books, films, music, video games, TV shows, and other. Muhammad Ali was often dubbed the world's "most famous" person in the media. Several of his fights were watched by an estimated 1–2 billion viewers between 1974 and 1980, and his lighting of the torch at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics was watched by an estimated 3.5 billion viewers.

Ali appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated on 38 different occasions, second only to Michael Jordan's 50. He also appeared on the cover of Time magazine 5 times. In 2015, Harris Poll found that Ali was one of the three most recognizable athletes in the United States, along with Michael Jordan and Babe Ruth.

On the set of Freedom Road Ali met Canadian singer-songwriter Michel, and subsequently helped create Michel's album The First Flight of the Gizzelda Dragon and an unaired television special featuring them both.

Ali was the subject of the British television program This Is Your Life in 1978 when he was surprised by Eamonn Andrews. Ali was featured in Superman vs. Muhammad Ali, a 1978 DC Comics comic book pitting the champ against the superhero. In 1979, Ali guest starred as himself in an episode of the NBC sitcom Diff'rent Strokes. The show's title itself was inspired by the quote "Different strokes for different folks" popularized in 1966 by Ali, who also inspired the title of the 1967 Syl Johnson song "Different Strokes", one of the most sampled songs in pop music history.

He also wrote several bestselling books about his career, including The Greatest: My Own Story and The Soul of a Butterfly. The Muhammad Ali effect, named after Ali, is a term that came into use in psychology in the 1980s, as he stated in The Greatest: My Own Story: "I only said I was the greatest, not the smartest." According to this effect, when people are asked to rate their intelligence and moral behavior in comparison to others, people will rate themselves as more moral, but not more intelligent than others. Ali cooperated with Thomas Hauser on a biography, Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times. The oral history was released in 1991.

When We Were Kings, a 1996 documentary about the Rumble in the Jungle, won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. The 2001 biopic Ali garnered a Best Actor Oscar nomination for Will Smith for his portrayal of Ali. Prior to making the film, Smith rejected the role until Ali requested that he accept it. Smith said the first thing Ali told him was: "Man, you're almost pretty enough to play me."

In 2002, Ali was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to the entertainment industry. His star is the only one to be mounted on a vertical surface, out of deference to his request that the name Muhammad—a name he shares with the Islamic prophet—not be walked upon.

His 1966 fight against George Chuvalo was the subject of the 2003 documentary film The Last Round: Chuvalo vs. Ali. A decade later, The Trials of Muhammad Ali, a documentary directed by Bill Siegel that focuses on Ali's refusal of the draft during the Vietnam War, opened in Manhattan in August 2013. A 2013 made-for-TV movie titled Muhammad Ali's Greatest Fight dramatized the same aspect of Ali's life.

Antoine Fuqua's documentary What's My Name: Muhammad Ali was released in 2019. Then in September 2021, documentary filmmaker Ken Burns released the four-part docuseries Muhammad Ali, spanning over eight hours on Ali's life. The series, which Burns began developing in early 2016, was broadcast on PBS. Dave Zirin, who watched an 8-hour rough cut of this documentary, called it "utterly outstanding" and said "the footage they found will blow minds".

In spring 2025, the officially authorized musical Ali, based on Ali's life, will be debuting. Originally expected to debut at The Kentucky Center in Ali's hometown of Louisville, it will instead have its premiere at the Nederlander Theatre in Chicago, before later moving on to Broadway. The musical is being directed and written by Clint Dyer, deputy artistic director of London's National Theatre, and scored by Louisville Orchestra's music director and conductor Teddy Abrams. Rapper and record producer Q-Tip has joined the production as music director and co-lyricist, along with Rich + Tone Talauega as choreographers.

Professional boxing record

Main article: Professional boxing record of Muhammad Ali

61 fights	56 wins	5 losses
By knockout	37	1
By decision	19	4

No.	Result	Record	Opponent	Type	Round, time	Date	Age	Location	Notes
61	Loss	56–5	Trevor Berbick	UD	10	Dec 11, 1981	39 years, 328 days	Queen Elizabeth Sports Centre, Nassau, Bahamas
60	Loss	56–4	Larry Holmes	RTD	10 (15), 3:00	Oct 2, 1980	38 years, 259 days	Caesars Palace, Paradise, Nevada, U.S.	For WBC and vacant The Ring heavyweight titles
59	Win	56–3	Leon Spinks	UD	15	Sep 15, 1978	36 years, 241 days	Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.	Won WBA and The Ring heavyweight titles
58	Loss	55–3	Leon Spinks	SD	15	Feb 15, 1978	36 years, 29 days	Las Vegas Hilton, Winchester, Nevada, U.S.	Lost WBA, WBC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
57	Win	55–2	Earnie Shavers	UD	15	Sep 29, 1977	35 years, 255 days	Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.	Retained WBA, WBC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
56	Win	54–2	Alfredo Evangelista	UD	15	May 16, 1977	35 years, 119 days	Capital Centre, Landover, Maryland, U.S.	Retained WBA, WBC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
55	Win	53–2	Ken Norton	UD	15	Sep 28, 1976	34 years, 255 days	Yankee Stadium, New York City, New York, U.S.	Retained WBA, WBC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
54	Win	52–2	Richard Dunn	TKO	5 (15), 2:05	May 24, 1976	34 years, 128 days	Olympiahalle, Munich, West Germany	Retained WBA, WBC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
53	Win	51–2	Jimmy Young	UD	15	Apr 30, 1976	34 years, 104 days	Capital Centre, Landover, Maryland, U.S.	Retained WBA, WBC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
52	Win	50–2	Jean-Pierre Coopman	KO	5 (15), 2:46	Feb 20, 1976	34 years, 34 days	Roberto Clemente Coliseum, San Juan, Puerto Rico	Retained WBA, WBC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
51	Win	49–2	Joe Frazier	RTD	14 (15), 3:00	Oct 1, 1975	33 years, 257 days	Philippine Coliseum, Quezon City, Philippines	Retained WBA, WBC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
50	Win	48–2	Joe Bugner	UD	15	July 1, 1975	33 years, 164 days	Stadium Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia	Retained WBA, WBC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
49	Win	47–2	Ron Lyle	TKO	11 (15), 1:08	May 16, 1975	33 years, 119 days	Las Vegas Convention Center, Winchester, Nevada, U.S.	Retained WBA, WBC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
48	Win	46–2	Chuck Wepner	TKO	15 (15), 2:41	Mar 24, 1975	33 years, 66 days	Coliseum, Richfield, Ohio, U.S.	Retained WBA, WBC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
47	Win	45–2	George Foreman	KO	8 (15), 2:58	Oct 30, 1974	32 years, 286 days	Stade du 20 Mai, Kinshasa, Zaire	Won WBA, WBC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
46	Win	44–2	Joe Frazier	UD	12	Jan 28, 1974	32 years, 11 days	Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.	Retained NABF heavyweight title
45	Win	43–2	Rudie Lubbers	UD	12	Oct 20, 1973	31 years, 276 days	Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Jakarta, Indonesia
44	Win	42–2	Ken Norton	SD	12	Sep 10, 1973	31 years, 236 days	The Forum, Inglewood, California, U.S.	Won NABF heavyweight title
43	Loss	41–2	Ken Norton	SD	12	Mar 31, 1973	31 years, 73 days	Sports Arena, San Diego, California, U.S.	Lost NABF heavyweight title
42	Win	41–1	Joe Bugner	UD	12	Feb 14, 1973	31 years, 28 days	Las Vegas Convention Center, Winchester, Nevada, U.S.
41	Win	40–1	Bob Foster	KO	8 (12), 0:40	Nov 21, 1972	30 years, 309 days	Sahara Tahoe, Stateline, Nevada, U.S.	Retained NABF heavyweight title
40	Win	39–1	Floyd Patterson	RTD	7 (12), 3:00	Sep 20, 1972	30 years, 247 days	Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.	Retained NABF heavyweight title
39	Win	38–1	Alvin Lewis	TKO	11 (12), 1:15	Jul 19, 1972	30 years, 184 days	Croke Park, Dublin, Ireland
38	Win	37–1	Jerry Quarry	TKO	7 (12), 0:19	Jun 27, 1972	30 years, 162 days	Las Vegas Convention Center, Winchester, Nevada, U.S.	Retained NABF heavyweight title
37	Win	36–1	George Chuvalo	UD	12	May 1, 1972	30 years, 105 days	Pacific Coliseum, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada	Retained NABF heavyweight title
36	Win	35–1	Mac Foster	UD	15	Apr 1, 1972	30 years, 75 days	Nippon Budokan, Tokyo, Japan
35	Win	34–1	Jürgen Blin	KO	7 (12), 2:12	Dec 26, 1971	29 years, 343 days	Hallenstadion, Zürich, Switzerland
34	Win	33–1	Buster Mathis	UD	12	Nov 17, 1971	29 years, 304 days	Astrodome, Houston, Texas, U.S.	Retained NABF heavyweight title
33	Win	32–1	Jimmy Ellis	TKO	12 (12), 2:10	Jul 26, 1971	29 years, 190 days	Astrodome, Houston, Texas, U.S.	Won vacant NABF heavyweight title
32	Loss	31–1	Joe Frazier	UD	15	Mar 8, 1971	29 years, 50 days	Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.	For WBA, WBC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
31	Win	31–0	Oscar Bonavena	TKO	15 (15), 2:03	Dec 7, 1970	28 years, 324 days	Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.	Won vacant NABF heavyweight title
30	Win	30–0	Jerry Quarry	RTD	3 (15), 3:00	Oct 26, 1970	28 years, 282 days	Municipal Auditorium, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.
29	Win	29–0	Zora Folley	KO	7 (15), 1:48	Mar 22, 1967	25 years, 64 days	Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.	Retained WBA, WBC, NYSAC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
28	Win	28–0	Ernie Terrell	UD	15	Feb 6, 1967	25 years, 20 days	Astrodome, Houston, Texas, U.S.	Retained WBC, NYSAC, and The Ring heavyweight titles; Won WBA heavyweight title
27	Win	27–0	Cleveland Williams	TKO	3 (15), 1:08	Nov 14, 1966	24 years, 301 days	Astrodome, Houston, Texas, U.S.	Retained WBC, NYSAC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
26	Win	26–0	Karl Mildenberger	TKO	12 (15), 1:30	Sep 10, 1966	24 years, 236 days	Waldstadion, Frankfurt, West Germany	Retained WBC, NYSAC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
25	Win	25–0	Brian London	KO	3 (15), 1:40	Aug 6, 1966	24 years, 201 days	Earls Court Exhibition Centre, London, England	Retained WBC, NYSAC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
24	Win	24–0	Henry Cooper	TKO	6 (15), 1:38	May 21, 1966	24 years, 124 days	Arsenal Stadium, London, England	Retained WBC, NYSAC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
23	Win	23–0	George Chuvalo	UD	15	Mar 29, 1966	24 years, 71 days	Maple Leaf Gardens, Toronto, Canada	Retained WBC, NYSAC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
22	Win	22–0	Floyd Patterson	TKO	12 (15), 2:18	Nov 22, 1965	23 years, 309 days	Las Vegas Convention Center, Winchester, Nevada, U.S.	Retained WBC, NYSAC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
21	Win	21–0	Sonny Liston	KO	1 (15), 2:12	May 25, 1965	23 years, 128 days	Civic Center, Lewiston, Maine, U.S.	Retained WBC, NYSAC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
20	Win	20–0	Sonny Liston	RTD	6 (15), 3:00	Feb 25, 1964	22 years, 39 days	Convention Center, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.	Won WBA, WBC, NYSAC, and The Ring heavyweight titles
19	Win	19–0	Henry Cooper	TKO	5 (10), 2:15	Jun 18, 1963	21 years, 152 days	Wembley Stadium, London, England
18	Win	18–0	Doug Jones	UD	10	Mar 13, 1963	21 years, 55 days	Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.
17	Win	17–0	Charlie Powell	KO	3 (10), 2:04	Jan 24, 1963	21 years, 7 days	Civic Arena, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.
16	Win	16–0	Archie Moore	TKO	4 (10), 1:35	Nov 15, 1962	20 years, 302 days	Memorial Sports Arena, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
15	Win	15–0	Alejandro Lavorante	KO	5 (10), 1:48	Jul 20, 1962	20 years, 184 days	Memorial Sports Arena, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
14	Win	14–0	Billy Daniels	TKO	7 (10), 2:21	May 19, 1962	20 years, 122 days	St. Nicholas Arena, New York City, New York, U.S.
13	Win	13–0	George Logan	TKO	4 (10), 1:34	Apr 23, 1962	20 years, 96 days	Memorial Sports Arena, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
12	Win	12–0	Don Warner	TKO	4 (10), 0:34	Feb 28, 1962	20 years, 70 days	Convention Center, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.
11	Win	11–0	Sonny Banks	TKO	4 (10), 0:26	Feb 10, 1962	20 years, 24 days	Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.
10	Win	10–0	Willi Besmanoff	TKO	7 (10), 1:55	Nov 29, 1961	19 years, 316 days	Freedom Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.
9	Win	9–0	Alex Miteff	TKO	6 (10), 1:45	Oct 7, 1961	19 years, 263 days	Freedom Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.
8	Win	8–0	Alonzo Johnson	UD	10	Jul 22, 1961	19 years, 186 days	Freedom Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.
7	Win	7–0	Duke Sabedong	UD	10	Jun 26, 1961	19 years, 160 days	Las Vegas Convention Center, Winchester, Nevada, U.S.
6	Win	6–0	LaMar Clark	KO	2 (8), 1:27	Apr 19, 1961	19 years, 92 days	Freedom Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.
5	Win	5–0	Donnie Fleeman	RTD	6 (8)	Feb 21, 1961	19 years, 35 days	Municipal Auditorium, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.
4	Win	4–0	Jim Robinson	KO	1 (8), 1:34	Feb 7, 1961	19 years, 21 days	Convention Center, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.
3	Win	3–0	Tony Esperti	TKO	3 (8), 1:30	Jan 17, 1961	19 years, 0 days	Municipal Auditorium, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.
2	Win	2–0	Herb Siler	TKO	4 (8), 1:00	Dec 27, 1960	18 years, 345 days	Municipal Auditorium, Miami Beach, Florida, U.S.
1	Win	1–0	Tunney Hunsaker	UD	6	Oct 29, 1960	18 years, 286 days	Freedom Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.

Discography

Further information: Muhammad Ali in media and popular culture

• I Am the Greatest (1963)
• The Adventures of Ali and His Gang vs. Mr. Tooth Decay (1976)

See also

• List of world heavyweight boxing champions
• List of WBA world champions
• List of WBC world champions
• List of The Ring world champions
• List of undisputed world boxing champions
• List of converts to Islam
• List of boxing families
• List of people from the Louisville metropolitan area
• List of American Muslims
• 1981 MAPS Wells Fargo embezzlement scandal

Notes

1. "boxing champion and activist"; "one of the country’s most recognized anti-war activists" "professional boxer and social activist"; "the professional boxer and activist"; "Muhammad Ali serves as reminder that radical activist athletes can become mainstreamed."

1. These records are shared with Joe Louis and José Napoles, respectively. Both these records were eventually beaten by Wladimir Klitschko.
2. Some sources claim that Joe Louis has actually defeated 22 fighters for the world heavyweight title; that would make Louis the sole holder of the eventually broken record.

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Further reading

• Hauser, Thomas (2004). Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times. London: Robson Books. ISBN 978-1-86105-738-9. OCLC 56645513.

Online

• Muhammad Ali: American boxer, in Encyclopædia Britannica Online, by Thomas Hauser, Adam Augustyn, Piyush Bhathya, Yamini Chauhan, John M. Cunningham, Richard Pallardy, Michael Ray, Emily Rodriguez, Surabhi Sinha, Amy Tikkanen, Grace Young and The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica

External links

• Official website (November 2018 archive)
• Boxing record for Muhammad Ali from BoxRec (registration required)
• Muhammad Ali at IMDb 
• William Addams Reitwiesner Genealogical Services: Ancestry of Muhammad Ali
• FBI Records: The Vault – Muhammad Ali at the FBI
• Cassius Clay Guilty (1967), Texas Archive of the Moving Image
• Muhammad Ali at the Team USA Hall of Fame (archive April 6, 2023)
• Muhammad Ali at Olympics.com
• Muhammad Ali at Olympedia (archive)

Photo essays

• "Cassius Clay: Before He Was Ali". Life. Archived from the original on October 21, 2009.
• Berman, Eliza; Ronk, Liz (June 4, 2016). "Muhammad Ali's Life in Photos; From his time in the ring to his more playful side". Life. Archived from the original on June 4, 2016.

Olympic Games
Preceded by Haakon Magnus, Crown Prince of Norway	Final Olympic torchbearer Atlanta 1996	Succeeded by Midori Ito
Preceded by Antonio Rebollo	Final Summer Olympic torchbearer Atlanta 1996	Succeeded by Cathy Freeman

v t e Muhammad Ali
Fights	Boxing at the 1960 Summer Olympics Clay vs. Hunsaker Clay vs. Siler Clay vs. Esperti Clay vs. Robinson Clay vs. Fleeman Clay vs. Clark Clay vs. Sabedong Clay vs. Johnson Clay vs. Miteff Clay vs. Besmanoff Clay vs. Banks Clay vs. Warner Clay vs. Logan Clay vs. Daniels Clay vs. Lavorante Moore vs. Clay Clay vs. Powell Clay vs. Jones Clay vs. Cooper Liston vs. Clay Ali vs. Liston II Ali vs. Patterson Ali vs. Chuvalo Ali vs. Cooper II Ali vs. London Ali vs. Mildenberger Ali vs. Williams Ali vs. Terrell Ali vs. Folley Ali vs. Quarry Ali vs. Bonavena Fight of the Century (Frazier vs. Ali I) Ali vs. Ellis Ali vs. Mathis Ali vs. Blin Ali vs. M. Foster Ali vs. Chuvalo II Ali vs. Quarry II Ali vs. Lewis Ali vs. Patterson II Ali vs. B. Foster Ali vs. Bugner Ali vs. Norton Norton vs. Ali II Ali vs. Lubbers Ali vs. Frazier II The Rumble in the Jungle (Foreman vs. Ali) Ali vs. Wepner Ali vs. Lyle Ali vs. Bugner II Thrilla in Manila (Ali vs. Frazier III) Ali vs. Coopman Ali vs. Young Ali vs. Dunn Ali vs. Norton III Ali vs. Evangelista Ali vs. Shavers Ali vs. Spinks Spinks vs. Ali II Holmes vs. Ali Ali vs. Berbick
Media	Books The Greatest: My Own Story (1975 autobiography) The Fight (1975) Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times (1991 biography) The Tao of Muhammad Ali (1997) King of the World (1998 biography) Facing Ali (2002) Muhammad Ali: The Glory Years (2002 biography) The Soul of a Butterfly (2004 autobiography) Twelve Rounds to Glory (2007 biography) Ali: A Life (2018 biography) Documentaries Whicker's World (1967 episode) a.k.a. Cassius Clay (1970) When We Were Kings (1996) The Last Round: Chuvalo vs. Ali (2003) Facing Ali (2009) When Ali Came to Ireland (2012) The Trials of Muhammad Ali (2013) I Am Ali (2014) Icons: The Greatest Person of the 20th Century (2019 episode) What's My Name: Muhammad Ali (2019) Blood Brothers: Malcolm X & Muhammad Ali (2021) Muhammad Ali (2021 series) Other films and series Requiem for a Heavyweight (1962) The Super Fight (1970) The Greatest (1977) I Am the Greatest: The Adventures of Muhammad Ali (1977 animated series) King of the World (2000 TV film) Ali: An American Hero (2000 TV film) Ali (2001) Muhammad Ali's Greatest Fight (2013 TV film) One Night in Miami... (2020) Music and performance I Am the Greatest (1963 album) "Black Superman (Muhammad Ali)" (1974 song) The Adventures of Ali and His Gang vs. Mr. Tooth Decay (1976 album) "Muhammad Ali" (2001 song) "The World's Greatest" (2002 song) Approaching Ali (2013 opera) One Night in Miami (2013 play) Comics and video games Superman vs. Muhammad Ali (1978 comic book) Muhammad Ali Heavyweight Boxing (1992 video game) Foes of Ali (1995 video game)
Family	Cassius Marcellus Clay Sr. (father) Odessa Grady Clay (mother) Rahaman Ali (brother) Khalilah Ali (wife) Laila Ali (daughter) Nico Ali Walsh (grandson)
Team and associates	Chuck Bodak (trainer, cutman) Angelo Dundee (cornerman) Drew Bundini Brown (trainer, cornerman) Ferdie Pacheco (personal physician, cornerman) Joe E. Martin (first trainer) Archie Moore (trainer) George Dillman (instructor) Jabir Herbert Muhammad (manager) Luis Sarria (trainer, cutman, masseur) Joe Frazier (opponent, friend) Richard Durham (autobiography co-writer)
Memorials	Ali Mall Muhammad Ali Boulevard Muhammad Ali Center Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport
Related	Clay v. United States Muhammad Ali vs. Antonio Inoki Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act Muhammad Ali in China Muhammad Ali in India Religious views of Muhammad Ali Rope-a-dope
Category

Awards for Muhammad Ali

v t e Olympic boxing champions – men's light heavyweight 1920–1936: 160–175 lb (72.6–79.4 kg) · 1948: 73–80 kg · 1952–2012: 75–81 kg · 2016–2020: 76–81 kg 1920:  Eddie Eagan (USA) 1924:  Harry Mitchell (GBR) 1928:  Víctor Avendaño (ARG) 1932:  David Carstens (RSA) 1936:  Roger Michelot (FRA) 1948:  George Hunter (RSA) 1952:  Norvel Lee (USA) 1956:  Jim Boyd (USA) 1960:  Cassius Clay (USA) 1964:  Cosimo Pinto (ITA) 1968:  Danas Pozniakas (URS) 1972:  Mate Parlov (YUG) 1976:  Leon Spinks (USA) 1980:  Slobodan Kačar (YUG) 1984:  Anton Josipović (YUG) 1988:  Andrew Maynard (USA) 1992:  Torsten May (GER) 1996:  Vassiliy Jirov (KAZ) 2000:  Aleksandr Lebziak (RUS) 2004:  Andre Ward (USA) 2008:  Zhang Xiaoping (CHN) 2012:  Egor Mekhontsev (RUS) 2016:  Julio César La Cruz (CUB) 2020:  Arlen López (CUB) v t e BBC Sports Personality World Sport Star of the Year 1960: Herb Elliott 1961: Valeriy Brumel 1962: Donald Jackson 1963: Jacques Anquetil 1964: Abebe Bikila 1965: Ron Clarke & Gary Player 1966: Eusébio & Garfield Sobers 1967: George Moore 1968: Ludmila Belousova & Oleg Protopopov 1969: Rod Laver 1970: Pelé 1971: Lee Trevino 1972: Olga Korbut 1973: Muhammad Ali 1974: Muhammad Ali 1975: Arthur Ashe 1976: Nadia Comăneci 1977: Niki Lauda 1978: Muhammad Ali 1979: Björn Borg 1980: Jack Nicklaus 1981: Chris Evert 1982: Jimmy Connors 1983: Carl Lewis 1984: Seve Ballesteros 1985: Boris Becker 1986: Greg Norman 1987: Martina Navratilova 1988: Steffi Graf 1989: Mike Tyson 1990: Mal Meninga 1991: Mike Powell 1992: Andre Agassi 1993: Greg Norman 1994: Brian Lara 1995: Jonah Lomu 1996: Evander Holyfield & Michael Johnson 1997: Martina Hingis 1998: Mark O'Meara 1999: Maurice Greene 2000: Tiger Woods 2001: Goran Ivanišević 2002: Ronaldo 2003: Lance Armstrong 2004: Roger Federer 2005: Shane Warne 2006: Roger Federer 2007: Roger Federer 2008: Usain Bolt 2009: Usain Bolt 2010: Rafael Nadal 2011: Novak Djokovic 2012: Usain Bolt 2013: Sebastian Vettel 2014: Cristiano Ronaldo 2015: Dan Carter 2016: Simone Biles 2017: Roger Federer 2018: Francesco Molinari 2019: Eliud Kipchoge 2020: Khabib Nurmagomedov 2021: Rachael Blackmore 2022: Lionel Messi 2023: Erling Haaland 2024: Armand Duplantis v t e NAACP Image Award – President's Award 1980s Ella Fitzgerald (1986) Rev. Jesse Jackson (1987) Jheryl Busby (1988) Antoinette Stroman & Ryan White (1989) 1990s Kent Amos & Carmen Amos (1995) Bryant Gumbel (1996) Alexis Herman (1997) Lauryn Hill (1998) Tavis Smiley & Tom Joyner (1999) 2000s Bill Clinton (2000) Condoleezza Rice (2001) Venus & Serena Williams (2002) T. D. Jakes (2003) Susan L. Taylor (2005) Soledad O'Brien (2006) Ruby Dee (2007) Muhammad Ali (2008) Van Jones (2009) 2010s Colin Powell (2010) Black Stuntmen's Association (2011) Kerry Washington (2012) Spike Lee (2014) John Legend (2015) Lonnie Bunch (2016) Danny Glover (2017) Jay-Z (2018) Rihanna (2019) 2020s LeBron James (2020) Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex & Meghan, Duchess of Sussex (2021) Gabrielle Union & Dwyane Wade (2022) Usher (2023) v t e Arthur Ashe Courage Award winners Named after Arthur Ashe 1993: Valvano 1994: Palermo 1995: Cosell 1996: Claiborne 1997: Ali 1998: D. Smith 1999: King 2000: Sanders 2001: Freeman 2002: Flight 93 passengers Beamer Bingham Burnett Glick 2003: P. Tillman & K. Tillman 2004: Weah 2005: MacLaren & Yeboah 2006: Ahmad & Kohestani 2007: Cullen & Ringland 2008: Carlos & T. Smith 2009: Mandela 2010: Thomas 2011: Bozella 2012: Summitt 2013: Roberts 2014: Sam 2015: Jenner 2016: Dobson 2017: Shriver 2018: USA Gymnastics sex abuse scandal survivors; ibnlt: Biles Dantzscher Denhollander Douglas Maroney Nichols Raisman Wieber 2019: Russell 2020: Love 2021: Moore 2022: Klitschko 2023: USWNST 2024: Gleason v t e Time 100: The Most Important People of the 20th Century Leaders & revolutionaries David Ben-Gurion Winston Churchill Mahatma Gandhi Mikhail Gorbachev Adolf Hitler Ho Chi Minh Pope John Paul II Ruhollah Khomeini Martin Luther King Jr. Vladimir Lenin Nelson Mandela Mao Zedong Ronald Reagan Eleanor Roosevelt Franklin D. Roosevelt Theodore Roosevelt Margaret Sanger Margaret Thatcher Unknown Tiananmen Square rebel Lech Wałęsa Artists & entertainers Louis Armstrong Lucille Ball The Beatles Marlon Brando Coco Chanel Charlie Chaplin Le Corbusier Bob Dylan T. S. Eliot Aretha Franklin Martha Graham Jim Henson James Joyce Pablo Picasso Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein Bart Simpson Frank Sinatra Steven Spielberg Igor Stravinsky Oprah Winfrey Builders & titans Stephen Bechtel Sr. Leo Burnett Willis Carrier Walt Disney Henry Ford Bill Gates Amadeo Giannini Ray Kroc Estée Lauder William Levitt Lucky Luciano Louis B. Mayer Charles E. Merrill Akio Morita Walter Reuther Pete Rozelle David Sarnoff Juan Trippe Sam Walton Thomas J. Watson Jr. Scientists & thinkers Leo Baekeland Tim Berners-Lee Rachel Carson Albert Einstein Philo Farnsworth Enrico Fermi Alexander Fleming Sigmund Freud Robert H. Goddard Kurt Gödel Edwin Hubble John Maynard Keynes Leakey family Jean Piaget Jonas Salk William Shockley Alan Turing Francis Crick & James Watson Ludwig Wittgenstein Wright brothers Heroes & icons Muhammad Ali The American G.I. Lady Diana Spencer Anne Frank Billy Graham Che Guevara Edmund Hillary & Tenzing Norgay Helen Keller Kennedy family Bruce Lee Charles Lindbergh Harvey Milk Marilyn Monroe Emmeline Pankhurst Rosa Parks Pelé Jackie Robinson Andrei Sakharov Mother Teresa Bill W. v t e Hickok Belt winners 1950–1976 1950: Phil Rizzuto 1951: Allie Reynolds 1952: Rocky Marciano 1953: Ben Hogan 1954: Willie Mays 1955: Otto Graham 1956: Mickey Mantle 1957: Carmen Basilio 1958: Bob Turley 1959: Ingemar Johansson 1960: Arnold Palmer 1961: Roger Maris 1962: Maury Wills 1963: Sandy Koufax 1964: Jim Brown 1965: Sandy Koufax 1966: Frank Robinson 1967: Carl Yastrzemski 1968: Joe Namath 1969: Tom Seaver 1970: Brooks Robinson 1971: Lee Trevino 1972: Steve Carlton 1973: O. J. Simpson 1974: Muhammad Ali 1975: Pete Rose 1976: Ken Stabler 2012–present 2012: LeBron James 2013: LeBron James 2014: Madison Bumgarner 2015: Stephen Curry 2016: Michael Phelps 2017: Jose Altuve 2018: Patrick Mahomes 2019: Kawhi Leonard 2020: Patrick Mahomes 2021: Shohei Ohtani 2022: Aaron Judge 2023: Nikola Jokić v t e WWE Hall of Fame inductees 1990s 1993 André the Giant 1994 Arnold Skaaland Bobo Brazil Buddy Rogers Chief Jay Strongbow Freddie Blassie Gorilla Monsoon James Dudley 1995 Antonino Rocca Ernie Ladd The Fabulous Moolah George Steele Ernie Roth Ivan Putski Pedro Morales 1996 Jimmy Snuka Johnny Rodz Killer Kowalski Lou Albano Mikel Scicluna Pat Patterson Valiant Brothers Jimmy Valiant Johnny Valiant Vince McMahon Sr. 2000s 2004 Big John Studd "Superstar" Billy Graham Bobby Heenan Don Muraco Greg Valentine Harley Race Jesse Ventura Junkyard Dog Sgt. Slaughter Tito Santana Celebrity Pete Rose 2005 Bob Orton Jr. Hulk Hogan The Iron Sheik Jimmy Hart Nikolai Volkoff Paul Orndorff Roddy Piper 2006 The Blackjacks Blackjack Mulligan Blackjack Lanza Bret Hart Eddie Guerrero Gene Okerlund Sherri Martel Tony Atlas Verne Gagne Celebrity William Perry 2007 Dusty Rhodes Jerry Lawler Jim Ross Mr. Fuji Curt Hennig Nick Bockwinkel The Sheik Wild Samoans Afa Anoa'i Sika Anoa'i 2008 The Brisco Brothers Gerald Brisco Jack Brisco Eddie Graham Gordon Solie Mae Young Peter Maivia Ric Flair See also: 2012 Rocky Johnson 2009 Bill Watts The Funk Brothers Terry Funk Dory Funk Jr. Howard Finkel Koko B. Ware Ricky Steamboat Stone Cold Steve Austin Von Erich family Chris Von Erich David Von Erich Fritz Von Erich Kerry Von Erich Kevin Von Erich Mike Von Erich 2010s 2010 Antonio Inoki Gorgeous George Maurice Vachon Stu Hart Ted DiBiase Wendi Richter Celebrity Bob Uecker 2011 Abdullah the Butcher Bob Armstrong Jim Duggan Road Warriors Road Warrior Hawk Road Warrior Animal Paul Ellering Shawn Michaels Sunny Celebrity Drew Carey 2012 Edge The Four Horsemen Arn Anderson Barry Windham J. J. Dillon Ric Flair Tully Blanchard Mil Máscaras Ron Simmons Yokozuna Celebrity Mike Tyson 2013 Bob Backlund Booker T Bruno Sammartino Mick Foley Trish Stratus Celebrity Donald Trump 2014 Carlos Colón Jake Roberts Lita Paul Bearer Scott Hall The Ultimate Warrior Celebrity Mr. T 2015 Alundra Blayze The Bushwhackers Bushwhacker Butch Bushwhacker Luke Kevin Nash Larry Zbyszko Randy Savage Rikishi Tatsumi Fujinami Celebrity Arnold Schwarzenegger Warrior Connor Michalek 2016 Big Boss Man Fabulous Freebirds Michael Hayes Buddy Roberts Jimmy Garvin Terry Gordy The Godfather Jacqueline Stan Hansen Sting Celebrity Snoop Dogg Warrior Joan Lunden Legacy Ed Lewis Frank Gotch George Hackenschmidt Lou Thesz Mildred Burke Pat O'Connor Sailor Art Thomas 2017 Beth Phoenix Diamond Dallas Page Kurt Angle Rick Rude Rock 'n' Roll Express Ricky Morton Robert Gibson Theodore Long Warrior Eric LeGrand Legacy Bearcat Wright Dr. Jerry Graham Haystacks Calhoun Judy Grable June Byers Luther Lindsay Martin Burns Rikidōzan Toots Mondt 2018 Dudley Boyz Bubba Ray Dudley D-Von Dudley Goldberg Hillbilly Jim Ivory Jeff Jarrett Mark Henry Celebrity Kid Rock Warrior Jarrius "JJ" Robertson Legacy Boris Malenko Cora Combs Dara Singh Hiro Matsuda Jim Londos Lord Alfred Hayes Rufus R. Jones El Santo Sputnik Monroe Stan Stasiak 2019 Brutus Beefcake D-Generation X Shawn Michaels Triple H Chyna Road Dogg Billy Gunn Sean Waltman Harlem Heat Booker T Stevie Ray Hart Foundation Bret Hart Jim Neidhart The Honky Tonk Man Torrie Wilson Warrior Sue Aitchison Legacy Bruiser Brody Buddy Rose Hisashi Shinma Jim Barnett Joseph Cohen Luna Vachon Primo Carnera Professor Tanaka S. D. Jones Wahoo McDaniel 2020s 2020 The Bella Twins Nikki Bella Brie Bella Davey Boy Smith John "Bradshaw" Layfield Jushin Liger New World Order Hulk Hogan Kevin Nash Scott Hall Sean Waltman Celebrity William Shatner Warrior Titus O'Neil Legacy Baron Michele Leone Brickhouse Brown Gary Hart Ray Stevens Steve Williams 2021 Eric Bischoff The Great Khali Kane Molly Holly Rob Van Dam Celebrity Ozzy Osbourne Warrior Rich Hering Legacy Buzz Sawyer Dick the Bruiser Ethel Johnson Paul Boesch Pez Whatley 2022 Sharmell Steiner Brothers Rick Steiner Scott Steiner The Undertaker Vader Warrior Shad Gaspard 2023 The Great Muta Rey Mysterio Stacy Keibler Celebrity Andy Kaufman Warrior Tim White 2024 Bull Nakano Paul Heyman Thunderbolt Patterson Lia Maivia U.S. Express Barry Windham Mike Rotunda Celebrity Muhammad Ali Category

v t e City of Louisville and metro area
History	Timeline Historic places Founder: George Rogers Clark Corn Island Fort Nelson Bloody Monday religious riots (1855) Civil War Southern Exposition (1883–87) 1890 tornado 1937 flood 1968 riots 1973 Kentucky Derby (Secretariat) 1974 tornadoes Louisville Cardinals men's basketball Championships in 1980 / 1986 / 2013 2015 scandal Standard Gravure shooting (1989) Ohio River Bridges Project (2002–16) Breonna Taylor Killing (2020) Protests 2023 bank shooting
Geography	Downtown Cityscape Climate Local landmarks Neighborhoods Parks Preservation districts (Old Louisville)
Government	Mayor (Craig Greenberg) Metro Council (President: Markus Winkler)
Transportation	Airports Muhammad Ali International Bowman Field Bridges Lewis and Clark Big Four Lincoln Kennedy Clark/2nd St. 14th St. K&I Sherman Minton Louisville Union Station McAlpine Locks and Dam Roads TARC
Other subject areas	Attractions and events Cuisine Economy Education Media People Performing arts Public art Religion Sports
Top subjects	Muhammad Ali Muhammad Ali Center Cave Hill Cemetery Falls of the Ohio Farmington Kentucky Derby (Festival) KFC History Colonel Sanders L&N Louisville Slugger Speed Art Museum University of Louisville (Cardinals)
National Historic Landmarks	Belle of Louisville Churchill Downs Historic Locust Grove Mayor Andrew Broaddus Old Bank Zachary Taylor House United States Marine Hospital Water Tower
Prominent suburbs (over 10K pop.)	Clarksville Jeffersontown Jeffersonville Lyndon Mount Washington New Albany St. Matthews Shelbyville Shepherdsville Shively
Category (city) Category (metro area) WikiProject

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