Black History Speaks: Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali (19422016) was an American former heavyweight champion boxer and one of the greatest sporting figures of the 20th century. An Olympic gold medalist and the first fighter to capture the heavyweight title three times, Ali won 56 times in his 21year professional career. Alis outspokenness on issues of race, religion and politics made him a controversial figure during his career, and the heavyweights quips and taunts were as quick as his fists. Born Cassius Clay Jr. , Ali changed his name in 1964 after joining the Nation of Islam. Citing his religious beliefs, he refused military induction and was stripped of his heavyweight championship and banned from boxing for three years during the prime of his career. Parkinsons syndrome severely impaired Alis motor skills and speech, but he remained active as a humanitarian and goodwill you know Muhammad Ali has appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated 38 times, second only to basketball great Michael Jordan. By age 18 Clay had captu