Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr. also known as Muhammad Ali is a famous and very talented boxer. He was born on January 17, 1942 in Louisville, Kentucky. Cassius, named after his father, grew up in a good home. He had two parents and was the eldest of two brothers. Her father painted billboards and signs for a living while her mother was a stay-at-home mom. He first became interested in boxing through Louisville police officer and boxing trainer Joe E. Martin, who met the 12-year-old because of a thief who took his bicycle. He explained to the police officer that he was going to “hit” the thief. The officer suggested he learn to box first. Chuck Bodak had coached Cassius for the last four years of his amateur career. He came out with incredible talent to begin with. Cassius won six Kentucky Golden Gloves titles, two national Golden Gloves titles, one Amateur Athletic Union national title and the Light Heavyweight gold medal. Cassius' amateur record was 100 wins with five losses. It was an exceptional record for someone so young. Cassius made his professional debut on October 29, 1960, winning a six-round decision over Tunney Hunsaker. Cassius held a record of 19-0 with 15 victories by knockout. He beat boxers including George Logan, Jim Robinson, Willi Besmanoff, Alonzo Johnson, Tony Esperti, Donnie Fleeman, Lamar Clark, Doug Jones and Henry Cooper. Cassius also beat his own trainer and veteran boxer Archie Moore. Unlike most boxers, Cassius had a big mouth in the ring. He talked a lot of trash and bragged about himself. It was at this point that Cassius began to realize that he was becoming big. Cassius was one of the main contenders for Sonny Liston's heavyweight title. The fight took place on February 25, 1964 in Miami. Liston had an intimidating personality,...... middle of paper......and destroyed. He was getting weaker and weaker with each fight. In February 1978, Ali faced Leon Spinks in Las Vegas. He lost the title by unanimous decision. A rematch took place in New Orleans, which broke audience records. Ali won a unanimous decision, making him the first heavyweight champion to win the belt three times. On July 27, 1979, Ali announced his retirement. One of Ali's final fights was against Larry Homes who he lost in the 11th round, the only fight Ali lost by knockout. Ali's last fight was against Trevor Berbick, which he lost in ten rounds. Ali was diagnosed with Parkinson's syndrome in 1984. Ali currently lives in Jefferson County, Kentucky, with his fourth wife. One of the greatest known boxers, Mohammad Ali, inspired many children to follow their dreams and be whoever they want to be, no matter what it takes..