On June 3, 2016, the world lost not only one of the greatest boxers of all time, but also a global icon: Muhammad Ali passed away nine years ago today at the age of 74.
Born Cassius Clay in Louisville, Kentucky, Muhammad Ali fought his way from humble beginnings to the top of the world – in the ring and in life. His sporting career began with Olympic gold in Rome in 1960. This was followed by 61 professional fights, 56 of which Ali won – 37 by knockout. He was the first boxer to become undisputed heavyweight champion of the world three times and defended his titles against many of the biggest names of his era.
His legendary fights against Joe Frazier, George Foreman and Sonny Liston remain unforgotten. Whether at the “Rumble in the Jungle” or the “Thrilla in Manila” – Ali redefined heavyweight boxing: prancing, fast, powerful, unpredictable. “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee” became his trademark.
But his legacy extends far beyond sport. Ali was a fighter for social justice, opposed the Vietnam War, publicly stood up for civil rights and Islam – and risked his career to do so. He was ostracized, lost his World Cup title, but always stood by his convictions. His courage, his voice, his elegance – Muhammad Ali was more than just a boxer. He was a symbol of strength, of attitude, of change. Nine years after his death, his name remains synonymous with greatness: “I am the greatest” – and rightly so.
Text by Robin Josten