Muhammad Ali (/ ɑːˈliː / ah-LEE; [3] born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr.; – ) was an American professional boxer and activist. [a] A global cultural icon, widely known by the nickname " the Greatest ", he is often regarded as the greatest heavyweight boxer of all time. · Two days later Clay shocked the boxing establishment again by announcing that he had accepted the teachings of the Nation of Islam. On , he took the name Muhammad Ali, which was given to him by his spiritual mentor, Elijah Muhammad. Learn about the life and achievements of Muhammad Ali, the only boxer to win the heavyweight championship three times. Find out how he changed his name from Cassius Clay to Muhammad Ali and why he became a Muslim. · Who is Muhammad Ali? Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. on , in Louisville, Kentucky, is widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of the 20th century. · 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... · Muhammad Ali was born on , in Louisville, Kentucky. His birth name was Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. At an early age, young Clay showed that he wasn’t afraid of any bout—inside or... · Read CNN’s Fast Facts about boxing legend Muhammad Ali to learn about the three-time world heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist.
