Muhammad Ali Facts for Kids
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Muhammad Ali was a famous boxer who became one of the most well-known athletes of the 20th century. Here are some interesting Muhammad Ali facts for kids:
1. Muhammad Ali was born in Louisville, Kentucky, on January 17, 1942. His birth name was Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr.
2. Ali first started boxing at the age of 12 after having his bike stolen. He wanted to learn how to fight to protect himself.
3. He won the gold medal in the light heavyweight division at the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome, Italy. He was only 18 years old at the time.
4. Ali was known for his quick wit and humor. He would often make up rhymes and poems to taunt his opponents before fights.
5. Ali was a member of the Nation of Islam, a religious and political organization that was influential in the United States during the 1960s.
6. In 1967, Ali refused to be drafted into the military for the Vietnam War, citing religious reasons and his opposition to the war. He was stripped of his boxing titles and banned from the sport for three years.
7. Ali was known for his epic fights with Joe Frazier, especially the “Thrilla in Manila” in 1975, which is considered one of the greatest boxing matches of all time.
8. Ali retired from boxing in 1981 with a record of 56 wins and 5 losses. He was a three-time heavyweight champion.
9. After retiring from boxing, Ali became an advocate for Parkinson’s disease, which he was diagnosed with in 1984. He also continued to be involved in social and political causes.
10. Ali passed away on June 3, 2016, at the age of 74. He was remembered as a legendary athlete and cultural icon who had a significant impact on American society.