There's not too many people that can be really considered, the greatest of all time at anything. There are a few exceptions to the rule: basketball has Michael Jordan, hockey has Wayne Gretzky, guitarists have Jimi Hendrix, etc. Even in regards to those who I've listed, they are all almost always open for debate as to whether they are the greatest or not at their craft. There truly is only one man who has always been unanimously considered the "greatest of all time" at their individual sport or craft, Muhammad Ali. The three letter last name is one that is known by everyone around the world. His title may have been self-proclaimed, but it only adds to his legacy. A career that was defined by creative banter but by backing every word up, with every dodged and landed punch.
Muhammad Ali was born Cassius Clay in 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky. His career began as a boy when he got his bike stolen, and in retaliation, he put on some gloves and the legend began. Ali's career took off when he beat the highly favored, and defending World Heavyweight Champion, Sonny Liston, at the mere age of 22. Ali won the title a total of three times, had six Golden Glove titles in Kentucky, two National Golden Glove titles and one Olympic Gold Medal from the 1960 games.
The wins are only a side note to the legacy of Ali. His mentality, poise, and colorful spirit is what solidifies him as an icon. Fighting the courts and refusing to be apart of the Vietnam war after being drafted, causing him to be banned from boxing for three years, and sentenced to five years in prison. He fought his way through the judicial system and was reinstated. He was a proud member of the Islamic religion, a religion that practices peace, even though the business he was in was very violent. A humanitarian, who dedicated a lot of his money, time and effort into helping others, especially in the last thirty years of his life. He fought Parkinson's disease, and was a major advocate for research and prevention of the ailment. He was a poet, who's confident bravado and bold quotes could intimidate anyone, even if he was considered the underdog. An activist for peace, love, and equality for all walks of life.
What Ali taught us is this: no matter the amount of doubters, "nay sayers" and haters; you can always use your will to come out on top. A mystical figure, who's image will always reflect and radiate ultimate success. Some may call him arrogant, ignorant or even down right cocky. But, those same people can't deny that Muhammad Ali exemplified the courage, passion and the true heart of a warrior. His legacy will live on in the sport of boxing, philanthropy and overall success. We thank you Ali, for encouraging us to be better, even when it's the most difficult. Thank you for paving the way for blacks to have a powerful and bold voice. Thank you for refusing to be considered anything less than great and having the confidence to pursue it, even in the face of incredible doubt and odds. You gave us hope, that one day, we can all pursue happiness and success; no matter the circumstances.
"He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life" - Muhammad Ali.
