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Birth
Cassius Clay was born on January 17, 1942 in Louisville Kentucky. -
Gold Medal
In 1960, Muhammad Ali traveled to Rome to compete in the Summer Olympics. He won the gold medal with a 5-0 decision over a Poland fighter. -
Defeats Liston and becomes a Muslim.
In 1964, Muhammad Ali defeats Sonny Liston and becomes the heavyweight champion of the world. After the fight he announces that he has become a Black Muslim and announces that he has changes his name to Muhammad Ali. -
Refusal to U.S. Army
In April of 1967 Muhammad Ali refuses to enlist in the U.S. Army because of his religious beliefs. -
Prison
In June of 1967, a court finds Muhammad Ali guilty of draft evasion, they fine him $10,000 and sentence him to five years in prison. He remains free due to pending appeals but cannot fight during that time. -
Free
In 1970, Muhammad Ali is aloud to fight again since there was no boxing commission in Georgia. Ali fights Jerry Quarry and wins. -
Ali fights Frazier
In March of 1971, Muhammad Ali fights heavyweight champ Joe Frazier. Frazier knocks Ali down in the 15th round. Frazier win the fight by unanimous decision. -
Ali Wins
In 1975, Muhammad Ali fights Joe Frazier for a third time. Ali wins the fight because Frazier couldn't come out for the 15th round. Ali retains his belt for heavyweight champ. -
Retirement
In 1979, Muhammad Ali announces his retirement. -
Muhammad Ali Diagnosed
In 1984, Muhammad Ali is diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.