Reflecting on the mystique of history, we tend to foist super-human regard to those who defended their beliefs and ideals in a revolutionary manner. For some, the revolution starts at the basis of their homes, workplaces, even onto their communities. However, for the dynamic of Cassius Marcellus Clay, we found that his revolution was within himself, by usurping norms and breaking barriers. He shifted his own paradigm and made a name for his own self. Muhammad Ali was more than a just mere athlete for many. He was hope, he was a movement, and undeniably a legend. His legendary boxing career, paralleled with his voice in the Muslim and Black communities, created a stark interplay that will live on past his physical life.

“Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee”, is inarguably one of the most famous quotes of Ali, exposing the charismatic, yet fierce fluidity of his temperament. Fierce in the ring, yet charismatic in life, Ali’s disposition was groundbreaking, making him a champion despite his work in the ring. Ali was a political, social, and racial activist, who transcended injustices that were divisive, truly exercising his prominent influence inclusive to multiple communities. In 1964, Ali became a member of the nation of Islam, even furthering his beliefs by changing his name to the one we now know and love. While constantly living in the lime-light, he used his fame to bring awareness and advocacy to the forefront of the Civil Rights era, affirming his disdain of the Vietnam War, which in turn influenced other leaders such as Martin Luther King to also disapprove the war. While obliging to his own beliefs, he was willing to sacrifice his career, as he refused to enter the Vietnam War, which he was sentenced to five years in jail. Fortunately, his was eventually overturned but revealed that in actuality Muhammad Ali always had his gloves on, constantly fighting for a greater cause–human rights. Of all the wins of his life, few are attributed to his triumphs outside the ring. Even in Iraq, he negotiated with Saddam Hussein to recapture 15 American hostages. As the unofficial representative of the oppressed communities of the world, Malcolm contested that Ali, “captured the imagination and support of the entire dark world.”

While many looked up to him as the 3-time, heavy-weight boxing champion of the world, he warned people of the dangers of his own craft, after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Ali was admirable mastermind that happened to be good at boxing. His athletic ability didn’t compromise up to even half of his strength.

“I would like to be remembered as a man who won the heavyweight title three times, who was humorous, and who treated everyone right…..and who helped as many people as he could.” These words are taken from Ali’s memoir, to shed light on the legacy that he passes on. Muhammad Ali has been a pivotal influence on many individuals, shifting ideas of politics, race, religion, and entertainment. Ali will go down in history far beyond a boxer. A “boxer”is an understatement. Muhammad Ali was an African American. Muhammad Ali was an activist. Muhammad Ali was a humanitarian. Muhammad Ali was a champion.

~Amara Onwukame