Homonym: Cassius Clay (Muhammad)
Cassius Clay, later known as Muhammad Ali, was an American professional boxer born on January 17, 1942. He gained fame for his exceptional boxing skills, charisma, and strong personality. Clay became the world heavyweight champion in 1964 after defeating Sonny Liston, and he was known for his quick footwork and powerful punches.
In addition to his boxing achievements, Clay was a prominent figure in the civil rights movement. He changed his name to Muhammad Ali after converting to Islam in 1964. Ali's refusal to be drafted into the Vietnam War due to his religious beliefs led to a significant legal battle, making him an enduring symbol of social justice.