Muhammad Ali

Ali vs. Sprinks (www.photofile.com)

Muhammad Ali, earlier known as Cassius Clay, is a retired American boxer and former three-time Heavyweight Champion of the world.

At 6'3" Muhammad Ali had a very unique style of boxing, carrying his hands down low, rather than up to protect his face. Born January 17, 1942 in Louisville, Kentucky, USA, he won fifty six fights, with thirty seven knock outs and just five losses in his career. In the early 1980s, Ali was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Despite his disability, he is still beloved as an active public figure. Ali received a Spirit of America Award calling him the most recognized American in the world.

At the age of twelve Ali was inspired to embark on a new sport after his bike was stolen. Ali started his career by winning six Kentucky Gold Gloves and two national Gold Gloves. In 1960 Muhammad Ali won the Light Heavyweight gold medal at the Olympics in Rome. Ali defeated almost every top Heavyweight in his era, titled "The Golden Age of Heavyweight boxing". Ali was named "Fighter of the Year" by Ring Magazine, and "Sportsman of the Year" by Sports Illustrated. Ali is considered one of the best pound-for-pound boxers of all time.

Muhammad Ali is my hero because he didn't care what anyone thought or said, and was scared of no one. Ali was an extraordinary talent and inspired many African Americans of his time and still inspires many people that they can do anything today.