Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr., is a name etched in the annals of boxing history. Known as “The Greatest,” Ali was more than just a towering figure in the ring; he was a cultural icon and a beacon of social change. His record, accomplishments, and the legacy he left behind continue to inspire millions around the globe.
If you’re curious about his career, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we dive deep into Muhammad Ali’s record, his children’s net worth, family details, and other fascinating facets of his life.
“Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. The hands can’t hit what the eyes can’t see.” — Muhammad Ali
Let’s start with his record. Muhammad Ali finished his illustrious boxing career with a total of 61 fights. Out of these, he won an impressive 56 bouts, with 37 of those wins coming by knockout. Ali only lost 5 times, a testament to his unmatched skill and determination inside the ring.
Here’s a quick breakdown of his professional boxing record:
- Wins: 56
- Wins by KO: 37
- Losses: 5
- Total Fights: 61
Ali’s career was marked by his quick footwork, powerful punches, and an indomitable spirit. He became the first fighter to win the world heavyweight title three times, a record that stood as a benchmark for boxing excellence.
As the world honors Muhammad Ali, we reminisce about some of his most impactful moments. More than just an unparalleled boxer, Ali was a captivating personality with a sharp intellect.
It’s rare to find such a blend of strength and wisdom in one individual, but Ali embodied both. He could deliver powerful punches in the ring and equally profound insights out of it. His words and actions remain woven into the cultural fabric of society. Here’s everything you need to know about the legendary figure in boxing.
Many already know that Muhammad Ali, originally born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr., converted to Islam in the 1970s. Born on January 17, 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky, Ali’s journey into boxing began at the tender age of 12, driven by a desire to confront the thief who stole his bicycle.
Muhammad Ali stepped into the amateur boxing ring for the first time in 1954 and clinched victory by a split decision. His early career saw him win the 1956 Golden Gloves and National Golden Gloves, among other notable amateur titles. The crowning achievement of his amateur career came in 1960 when he triumphed over Poland’s Zbigniew Pietrzkowski to win the light heavyweight gold medal at the Olympics. This victory didn’t just put him on the map; it elevated him to the status of an American hero.
As Muhammad Ali’s fame grew, he embraced Islam and took a strong stand against the Vietnam War. Ali’s refusal to be drafted into military service was rooted in his religious beliefs, which opposed the violence and destruction of war. This bold decision made him an icon, respected by many but also viewed with contempt by others. Yet, it solidified his position not just as a legendary boxer, but as a man with steadfast principles.
estimated at $60 million during his heavyweight career. According to Forbes,
Ali’s net worth was estimated at $60 million during his prime as a heavyweight boxer. According to Forbes, his wealth before passing away was around $80 million. Thanks to winning some of the most high-profile fights, Muhammad’s earnings and net worth grew significantly over the years. He was also a dedicated philanthropist, using his wealth to support his large family and various charitable causes.
Though Ali proudly declared many titles himself, most were bestowed upon him by countless devoted fans and admirers worldwide. Various sports media outlets and social platforms across the globe also contributed to his legendary status.
ESPN honored him as the ‘second-best fighter of the century,’ and Ring Magazine proclaimed him the ‘greatest heavyweight in boxing history.’ Additionally, he was awarded Presidential Medals from two Former U.S. Presidents, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.
Spouse, Children, Family
There’s not much to emulate about the personal life of Ali who had many wives and concubines. A woman Barbara Mensah has come forward several times with claims of being in a relationship with Muhammad Ali and having a daughter Kiiursti Mensah-Ali. Kiiursti during the funeral of the great boxer pleaded with the family to be allowed to mourn her father at the funeral.
Muhammad Ali got married to his first wife, Sonji Roi in 1964. The marriage which lasted for only two years without kids, ended in 1966 after the couple divorced on grounds of religious differences.
Single again, Ali ventured into another marriage the following year, tieing the knot with Belinda Boyd. He and Belinda had four children together; Maryum, Rashida, Jemmilah, and Muhammad Ali Jnr.
Though some were self-acclaimed, most of the titles borne by the boxer were given him by tons of admirers of his person. Some were from various sports media and social platforms across the globe.
Ali was given the ‘second best fighter of the century’ by ESPN. He was named the ‘greatest heavyweight in boxing history’ by Ring Magazine. Two times he won Presidential medals from two US presidents; Bill Clinton and George .W. Bush.
Top 20 Quotes
1. Champions aren’t made in gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them—a desire, a dream, a vision. They have to have last-minute stamina, they have to be a little faster, and they have to have the skill and the will. But the will must be stronger than the skill.
2. I am so fast that last night I turned off the light switch and was in bed before the room was dark.
3. Float like a butterfly, Sting like a bee, your hands can’t hit, what your eyes can’t see.
4. If my mind can conceive it, and my heart can believe it – then I can achieve it.
5. Boxing is a lot of white men watching two black men beating each other up.
6. I’m not the greatest; I’m the double greatest. Not only do I knock ’em out, I pick the round.
7. It’s hard to be humble when you’re as great as I am.
8.It’s just a job. Grass grows, birds fly, waves pound the sand. I beat people up.
9. Live every day like it’s your last because someday you’re going to be right.
10. A man who views the world the same at 50 as he did at 20 has wasted thirty years of his life.
11. I done wrestled with an alligator, I done tussled with a whale, handcuffed lightning, thrown thunder in jail; only last week I murdered a rock, injured a stone, hospitalized a brick. I’m so mean I make medicine sick.
12. Cassius Clay is a slave name. I didn’t choose it, and I didn’t want it. I am Muhammad Ali, a free name, and I insist people using it when speaking to me and of me.
13. I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.
14. Only a man who knows what it is like to be defeated can reach down to the bottom of his soul and come up with the extra ounce of power it takes to win.
15. Don’t count the days, make the days count.
16. I know where I’m going and I know the truth, and I don’t have to be what you want me to be. I’m free to be what I want.
17. Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.
18. Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they’ve been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It’s a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing.
19. It’s not bragging if you can back it up.
20. At home I am a nice guy: but I don’t want the world to know. Humble people, I’ve found, don’t get very far.
Height, Measurements
Muhammad Ali had a very intimidating height which gave him an edge over his opponents. Standing at a height of 6ft 3 inches, Ali could swing his fists to reach his rival with ease. His body weight of 107 kg and strong physique made the greatest of all time to stand out always in the ring.
