Muhammad Ali's Milestones
Birth
Muhammad Ali was born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. in Louisville, Kentucky, to Cassius Marcellus Clay Sr. and Odessa Grady Clay.
Began boxing training
Began boxing training at age 12 after his bike was stolen.
Amateur career success
Won six Kentucky Golden Gloves titles and two national Golden Gloves titles as an amateur.
Olympic gold medal
Won the light heavyweight boxing gold medal at the Rome Olympics.
Turned professional
Made his professional boxing debut.
First world heavyweight title
Won the world heavyweight title by defeating Sonny Liston.
Changed name to Muhammad Ali
Converted to Islam and changed his name to Muhammad Ali.
Defended title
Successfully defended the heavyweight title multiple times, including a rematch with Sonny Liston.
Vietnam War protest
Refused military induction, was stripped of his title, and banned from boxing for over three years.
Returned to boxing
Returned to boxing, defeating Jerry Quarry in his comeback fight.
'Fight of the Century' vs. Joe Frazier
Fought Joe Frazier in the 'Fight of the Century,' his first professional loss.
Regained heavyweight title
Regained the heavyweight title by defeating George Foreman in the 'Rumble in the Jungle.'
'Thrilla in Manila' win
Defeated Joe Frazier in the 'Thrilla in Manila,' one of boxing's greatest bouts.
Lost and regained title
Lost the title to Leon Spinks, then regained it in a rematch, becoming the first three-time heavyweight champion.
Retired from boxing
Retired from professional boxing after his final fight against Trevor Berbick.
Humanitarian work
Dedicated his later years to humanitarian efforts, philanthropy, and advocacy for peace.
Parkinson's diagnosis
Diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.
Lit Olympic torch
Lit the Olympic torch at the Atlanta Summer Olympics.
Death
Muhammad Ali died in Scottsdale, Arizona.