Black History Month: Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr., is widely considered one of the greatest boxers of all time, while also being one of the most celebrated figures of the 20th century.
Born and raised in Louisville, Ky., he began training as an amateur at age 12 and won his first Olympic gold medal at 18 in 1960. Ali is not only an inspiration for African-Americans but also Muslims. Ali became Muslim after 1961, paving the way for many future pro athletes of not only color but also Muslims to succeed.
His many boxing records and accolades speak for themself as to how good of a boxer he was. He is the only fighter to have been ranked as the world’s best heavyweight by BoxRec 12 times, and he was the only boxer to be named “Ring” magazine fighter of the year six times, as well as being named the greatest heavyweight boxer of all time by “Sports Illustrated”. The list goes on but he doesn’t even need these accolades to be a memorable figure. Ali fought in many big-time and record-setting television events at the time and was a big personality in the boxing world. So, it’s almost impossible to not think of greatness when you hear his name.