Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr., is a name synonymous with boxing greatness. His journey from a young boy in Louisville, Kentucky, to a global icon is a tale of triumph, resilience, and undeniable charisma. Ali’s career took off after winning a gold medal at the 1960 Rome Olympics, catapulting him into the professional boxing arena where he quickly rose to fame. Known for his unique fighting style and confident personality, Ali’s matches, such as those against Sonny Liston, Joe Frazier, and George Foreman, are legendary. These bouts not only made him a household name but also brought substantial financial rewards. By the time of his retirement in 1981, Muhammad Ali had not only cemented his legacy as one of the greatest boxers of all time but had also secured a substantial fortune. At the time of his passing in 2016, his net worth was estimated to be around $50 million. This wealth was a testament to his successful career, savvy endorsements, and the strategic management of his image and legacy. Ali’s influence extended far beyond the boxing ring, as he became a symbol of social justice and human rights, further enhancing his global appeal.
Despite his immense earnings from the ring, Ali’s financial journey was not without challenges. His principled stand against the Vietnam War draft led to a suspension from boxing and significant income loss during his prime years. Furthermore, mismanagement and lavish spending habits added to his financial woes. However, Ali’s indomitable spirit saw him through these tough times. His return to boxing in the 1970s marked a resurgence in his career, and his ability to draw massive audiences ensured continued financial success. Ali also wisely capitalized on his fame through endorsements with major brands like Adidas and Coca-Cola, adding to his wealth.
Today, Muhammad Ali’s legacy continues to thrive. The Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville stands as a beacon of his enduring impact, celebrating his life and ideals. The value of his image and name, managed by his estate, continues to generate income, ensuring that Ali’s legacy lives on. His story is a powerful reminder that true wealth encompasses not only financial success but also the lasting legacy one leaves behind. Ali’s life and career continue to inspire and influence generations, solidifying his status as “The Greatest.”
Muhammad Ali’s Biography
Category
Details
Full Name
Muhammad Ali (born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr.)
Nickname
The Greatest, The People’s Champion, The Louisville Lip
Date of Birth
January 17, 1942
Age
Passed away on June 3, 2016, at the age of 74
Place of Birth
Louisville, Kentucky, USA
Occupation
Professional Boxer, Philanthropist, Social Activist
Years Active
1960-1981
Known For
Boxing career, Civil Rights activism
Notable Works
Winning the World Heavyweight Championship three times, “The Rumble in the Jungle”, “The Thrilla in Manila”
Zodiac sign/Sun sign
Capricorn
Religion
Islam (converted from Christianity in 1964)
Food Habit
Non-vegetarian
Ethnicity
African-American
Nationality
American
Hometown
Louisville, Kentucky, USA
Education Qualification
High School Graduate
School
Central High School, Louisville
College
Did not attend college
Debut
Professional boxing debut on October 29, 1960, against Tunney Hunsaker
Father
Cassius Marcellus Clay Sr.
Mother
Odessa Grady Clay
Hobbies
Reading, Philanthropy, Public Speaking
Awards
Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Century, BBC Sports Personality of the Century, Presidential Medal of Freedom (2005), and many more
Social Media
Posthumously managed by official accounts (e.g., Twitter: @MuhammadAli)
Cars Collection
Various luxury cars including a Rolls Royce, Cadillac, and more
Fan Mail Address
Not publicly available
Favourite Things
Favorite Boxer: Sugar Ray Robinson, Favorite Music: Gospel, Favorite Book: The Bible, Favorite Color: Red
Muhammad Ali’s Wives
Wife
Marriage Duration
Notable Details
Sonji Roi
1964–1966
First wife. They divorced due to cultural differences, particularly Sonji’s refusal to conform to Islam’s strict dress and behavior codes.
Belinda Boyd (later Khalilah Ali)
1967–1977
Second wife. They had four children together. Belinda later changed her name to Khalilah. They divorced due to Ali’s infidelity.
Veronica Porsche
1977–1986
Third wife. They had two children together, including Laila Ali, who became a professional boxer. They met while she was an actress and model.
Yolanda “Lonnie” Williams
1986–2016 (until Ali’s death)
Fourth wife. They were childhood friends and had one adopted son. Lonnie was deeply involved in managing Ali’s business affairs and caring for him during his battle with Parkinson’s disease.
Muhammad Ali’s Height, Weight and Physical Appearance
Height
6 feet 3 inches (191 cm)
Weight
Approx. 210-220 pounds (95-100 kg) during his prime
Body Type
Athletic, Muscular
Hair Color
Black
Eye Color
Brown
Reach
78 inches (198 cm)
Chest
44 inches (112 cm)
Waist
34 inches (86 cm)
Biceps
16 inches (41 cm)
Legs/Thighs
25 inches (64 cm)
Shoe Size
13 (US)
Muhammad Ali’s Family
Family Member
Relation to Muhammad Ali
Notes
Cassius Marcellus Clay Sr.
Father
A sign painter and musician.
Odessa O’Grady Clay
Mother
A domestic helper.
Rahman Ali (Rudolph Valentino Clay)
Brother
Also a boxer, known for his support of Muhammad Ali throughout his career.
Khaliah Ali
Daughter
Child with Aaisha Fletcher.
Maryum Ali
Daughter
Child with Belinda Boyd, a social worker and author.
Rasheda Ali
Daughter
Child with Belinda Boyd, an author and public speaker.
Jamillah Ali
Daughter
Child with Belinda Boyd.
Muhammad Ali Jr.
Son
Child with Belinda Boyd.
Hana Ali
Daughter
Child with Veronica Porsche, an author and public speaker.
Laila Ali
Daughter
Child with Veronica Porsche, a retired professional boxer and television personality.
Miya Ali
Daughter
Child with Patricia Harvell.
Asaad Amin
Son (adopted)
Adopted with Lonnie Ali (Muhammad Ali’s fourth wife).
Lonnie Ali (Yolanda Williams)
Fourth Wife
Married in 1986, remained together until Muhammad Ali’s death in 2016.
Interesting Facts About Muhammad Ali
Olympic Gold Medalist: Ali won the gold medal in the light heavyweight division at the 1960 Rome Olympics. His victory was a significant early highlight of his career.
Conversion to Islam: Shortly after winning his first heavyweight title in 1964, Ali converted to Islam and changed his name from Cassius Clay to Muhammad Ali, symbolizing his new identity and beliefs.
Stance Against the Vietnam War: Ali was a conscientious objector to the Vietnam War, famously refusing to be drafted in 1967 due to his religious beliefs and opposition to the conflict. His stance led to a conviction for draft evasion, a five-year prison sentence, and the stripping of his boxing titles, though the conviction was later overturned by the Supreme Court.
Three-Time Heavyweight Champion: Ali was the first fighter to win the heavyweight title three times. His major title victories were against Sonny Liston (1964), George Foreman (1974), and Leon Spinks (1978).
Rumble in the Jungle: One of Ali’s most famous fights was the “Rumble in the Jungle” in 1974, where he defeated the heavily favored George Foreman in Kinshasa, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo). Ali used a strategy called the “rope-a-dope,” tiring Foreman out before knocking him out in the eighth round.
Thrilla in Manila: Another legendary bout was the “Thrilla in Manila” against Joe Frazier in 1975. This brutal and intense fight is often considered one of the greatest boxing matches in history. Ali won when Frazier’s corner stopped the fight after the 14th round.
Charitable Work: Ali was known for his philanthropy and humanitarian efforts. He supported various causes, including children’s hospitals and hunger relief. He was also a United Nations Messenger of Peace.
Parkinson’s Disease: In 1984, Ali was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder. Despite his condition, he remained active in public life, raising awareness for Parkinson’s and continuing his charitable activities.
Cultural Impact: Ali’s charisma, wit, and outspoken nature made him a cultural icon. His quotes, such as “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee,” and his ability to engage in “trash talk” made him a larger-than-life figure in sports and beyond.
Legacy in Media: Ali’s life and career have been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and films. The biographical film “Ali” (2001), starring Will Smith, brought his story to a new generation.
Global Recognition: Ali is considered one of the most recognized and celebrated athletes worldwide. In 1999, he was named “Sportsman of the Century” by Sports Illustrated and “Sports Personality of the Century” by the BBC.
Philosophical Quotations: Ali was known for his philosophical and often provocative quotes. Some of his famous sayings include, “He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life,” and “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.”