He called himself "The Greatest," and few boxing historians or fans would argue his claim. Born Cassius Clay on January 17, 1942, he began his relentless pursuit of boxing perfection at age 12. His bicycle was stolen and a police officer taught him some basic moves so that it would not happen again. Ali won the Chicago Golden Gloves Championship in 1960. Then in Rome, later that year, Ali won the Olympic Gold Medal for the Light Heavyweight division. He came back to the states and embarked on what will be remembered as one of the greatest athletic careers of all time. Ali finally hung up his gloves in 1981 with a record of 56 wins, 5 losses, and 37 knockouts and has left an everlasting impression on sports fans around the world. 130 minutes. In His Own Words
Through stunning and rare footage, some of which has not been seen for decades, watch the Louisville Lip mature as a public speaker, beginning with his early days as Cassius Clay, through his tumultuous reign as the Heavyweight boxing champion of the world. Follow Ali as he refuses induction into the U.S. Army on religious grounds, embarks on controversial humanitarian travels into third world countries, and struggles with Parkinson's disease.
Skill, Brains & Guts
Skill, Brains & Guts chronicles the career of a boxing legend. Highlights from Ali's bouts with Joe Frazier, George Foreman, Floyd Patterson, George Chuvala, and many more are included in this program. Ali is shown at his best, talking trash during title matches and while training before big-time fights. This program is punctuated by interviews both before and after Ali's matches. Special attention is paid toward Ali's constant rivalry with Smokin' Joe Frazier. Ali is known as one of the best self-promoters of all time and now you can see why.
