Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali (born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr., January 17, 1942 – June 3, 2016) was an American professional boxer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of the 20th century. Rising to prominence in the 1960s, Ali won the heavyweight championship three times and was an Olympic gold medalist. Beyond the ring, he became a cultural icon for his charisma, controversial statements, and unwavering commitment to his principles. Ali famously converted to Islam and changed his name, refusing to be drafted into the Vietnam War on religious and moral grounds, sacrificing his prime fighting years. His activism on civil rights and his stance against the Vietnam War made him a polarizing but ultimately revered figure in American history. Despite battling Parkinson's syndrome later in life, Ali remained a beloved global ambassador for boxing and humanitarian causes. His legacy transcends sports, representing courage, conviction, and the power of athletic celebrity to influence social change.