17 Times Muhammad Ali Proved He Was Down For The Culture

In 1942 a legend was born: Muhammad AliLiteral goat. [Fun fact: Lonnie Ali, Muhammad Ali’s wife, incorporated Greatest of All Time, Inc. (G.O.A.T. Inc.) to license her husband’s intellectual properties].

But not only On Breaking records in the boxing ring – being the first boxer to win three world heavyweight championship titles – he has also been an advocate for his people, championing social justice and espousing strong Black Pride messages throughout his life.

To celebrate Ali’s 81st birthday on January 17, ESSENCE highlights 17 moments he had a major fight outside of the ring.

01

Ali didn’t just fight for medals or glory

“When you saw me in the boxing ring fighting, it wasn’t until I could beat my opponent,” he said He said. “My fighting had a purpose. I had to be successful in order to get people to listen to the things I had to say… I wanted to become an accessible hero. I hoped to inspire others to take control of their lives and live with pride and self-determination.”