Muhammad Ali

1942 Born Cassius Clay on Jan. 17, in Louisville, Ky

1954 After having his bike stolen, a 12-year-old Clay promises to "whup whoever stole it." In an attempt to channel his aggression, the policeman he reported the crime to takes him under his wing and eventually directs him to boxing trainer Fred Stoner. Over the next six years, Clay would win six Kentucky Golden Gloves championships, two national Golden Gloves titles

1960 Clay wins the light- heavyweight gold medal at the Summer Olymics in Rome He turns professional and wins the first two fights of his career.

1964 Despite an unblemished 19 ﾐ 0 record, Clay is a heavy underdog in his championship bout with Sonny Liston. But you wouldn't know it by listening to him. He brashly and colorfully predicts victory, and teases the champ by calling him, among other things, an "ugly, old bear."

1964 True to his word, Clay has his way with Liston through six rounds. When Liston refuses to leave his corner for the start of the seventh, the fight ends and Clay becomes heavyweight champion of the world.

1967 In April, Ali refuses induction into the U.S. Army due to his religious convictions.

1967 In June, a court finds him guilty of draft evasion, fines him $10,000, and sentences him to five years in prison. He remains free, pending numerous appeals, but is still barred from fighting.

1971 n March, he fights heavyweight champ Joe Frazier in Madison Square Garden. A left hook by Frazier knocks Ali down in the 15th round. Frazier wins by unanimous decision.

1971 In January, he gains a measure of revenge from Frazier, besting the former champ in 12 rounds.

1975 Ali fights Frazier for the third time at the "Thrilla in Manila”. The two heavyweights batter and bloody each other in a ferocious battle, but Ali retains his belt when Frazier can't come out for the 15th round.

1979 Announces his retirement on June 27.