Mar 30, 2001 03:15 PM
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He is the greatest of all time. His record of 56-5 is a proof to the greatness of Muhammad Ali who floated like a butterfly and stung like a bee. At his best , He was invincible .Defence , Timing , Anticipation and footwork were the hallmarks of this great man .Lets go through the life and Career of the legend whose name is Muhammad Ali.
Life - He was Born as Cassius Marcellus Clay on Jan 17 , 1942 in louisville , Kentucky. He turned to boxing at the age of 12 and soon went up the ladder and soon found himself at the 1960 olympics. After beatng liston for the world title, He embraced islam and would henceforth be known as Muhammad Ali. He went on boxing and boxing took it's toll and he went into rehabilation , climaxing at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics when the Parkinson struck Ali lit the flame.
Career - Ali returned from the 1960 olympics as the gold medallist and soon turned pro. He won his first world title defeating Liston at the age of 22 years. He then defended his title against Patterson, George Chuvalo, Henry Copper ,Brian London, Karl Mildenberger, Cleveland Williams , Ernie Terrel and Zora Folley.
Then in one of the most dramatic events in the history of sport, He was stripped of the title in 1967 for his refusal to be inducted into the U.S army as a draftee for the Vietnam War. His boxing license was suspended for 3.5 years. He soon made a comeback and was champion again. After winning the world title for the 3rd time, he retired only to return after 2 years. He put up a pathetic show against Larry Holmes , retiring in the 11th round. His final apperance was against Trevor Berbick which he lost.
Inspite of his not so glorious farewell , His charisma and magic remained and still remains. Ali was the greatest not only cos of his boxing but becuse he defied all boundaries and spoke to humanity !!
