Boxer muhammad Ali

               

    Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. on January 17, 1942, was an American professional boxer and one of the most significant sports figures of the 20th century. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of all time.

Ali began his boxing career at the age of 12, and by the time he retired in 1981, he had amassed an impressive record of 56 wins (including 37 knockouts) and only 5 losses. He won the gold medal in the light heavyweight division at the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome, and shortly after, he turned professional.

Known for his unique fighting style and dazzling footwork, Ali quickly gained attention for his speed, agility, and ability to "float like a butterfly, sting like a bee." He was also known for his charismatic personality and his outspokenness on social and political issues, often referring to himself as "The Greatest."

One of Ali's most notable boxing achievements came on February 25, 1964, when he defeated Sonny Liston to become the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world at the age of 22. He would go on to defend his title multiple times, engaging in legendary matches with opponents such as Joe Frazier and George Foreman.

Outside the ring, Ali was an influential figure in the civil rights movement and became a symbol of resistance against racial inequality and the Vietnam War. He famously refused to be drafted into the military in 1967, citing his religious beliefs and opposition to the war. As a result, he was stripped of his boxing titles and banned from competing for several years. However, in 1971, the Supreme Court overturned his conviction, allowing him to resume his boxing career.

Ali's later years were marked by his battle with Parkinson's disease, a degenerative neurological condition. Despite his declining health, he continued to be an ambassador for various humanitarian causes and remained an inspirational figure to many.

Muhammad Ali passed away on June 3, 2016, at the age of 74, but his legacy as one of the greatest athletes and cultural icons of the 20th century continues to endure.