Muhammad Ali, one of the most recognizable sports figures of the 20th century died on June 3, 2016. He was 74. His impact on American history as well as sports will never be forgotten.
In February of 1964, a young boxer named Muhammad Ali defeated monster heavyweight champion Sonny Liston and changed the world of sports forever. Ali proclaimed himself to be "the greatest" in a post-fight interview and over the next ten years he would have a profound impact on American history.
Muhammad Ali became a social justice warrior in 1967, when he was stripped of his title after refusing induction into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He refused induction citing his religious beliefs as a Muslim. His faith would not allow him to go to Vietnam and kill innocent people. America turned on Ali and branded him a draft dodger. White Americans hated Ali, while black Americans continued to support him seeing him as a strong voice for civil rights and equality during the turbulent 60's. By 1970 the Supreme Court overturned the government's decision to suspend Ali's license and he was allowed to enter the ring once again.
Joe Frazier vs. Muhammad Ali
By now "Smokin" Joe Frazier had won the title vacated by Ali. Frazier did loan Ali money during his time away from boxing and lobbied for Ali to get his license back even going to the White House to speak with President Nixon. Ali turned on Frazier calling him an "Uncle Tom," a negative term in the black community. On March 8, 1971, Ali and Frazier met in Madison Square Garden in a fight dubbed "The Fight of the Century" which attracted stars such as Frank Sinatra, Woody Allen, Burt Lancaster, and others. Both Frazier and Ali were undefeated and when the smoke cleared Ali had lost by decision to Frazier. These two titans would fight two more times including the Thrilla' in Manilla in 1975 with Ali beating Frazier on both occasions.
Ali would regain the heavyweight title in 1974 in Zaire after beating George Foreman who was the most dominant heavyweight at that time. Foreman won the title from Joe Frazier in 1972. Ali vowed to conquer Foreman and win the title. He would employ the rope-a-dope strategy by laying on the ropes and letting Foreman wear himself out while punching Ali.
Muhammad Ali retired from the ring in 1980 and in 1984 he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. He became an advocate for Parkinson's disease and fought it with the same determination and heart he showed in the ring.
Muhammad Ali was one of the greatest athletes ever. He became a legend because of his ability in the ring and his gift of gab outside of it. His impact on American culture and civil rights made him one of the most recognizable figures in the world. He shook up the world so that young African-Americans like myself can prosper in it.
R.I.P. Champ and Thank You.
THE PROFESSOR
No comments:
Post a Comment