Lasting Legacy of Muhammad Ali: A Look at the Influence on History
A closer look at the lasting mark left by Muhammad Ali—a timeline of influence.
Muhammad Ali, often called "The Greatest," was a globally recognized American professional boxer and social activist. Considered by many to be the greatest heavyweight boxer ever, he held multiple championship titles, including the Ring magazine heavyweight title and the WBA heavyweight title. Beyond boxing, Ali was a significant cultural icon. He was named Sportsman of the Century by Sports Illustrated and Sports Personality of the Century by the BBC.
1961: Met Gorgeous George Wagner
In 1961, Muhammad Ali met with professional wrestler "Gorgeous George" Wagner in Las Vegas where George explained that talking a big game would attract fans who wanted to see him win or lose, Thus influencing Ali's persona.
1963: First Sports Illustrated Cover
In 1963, Muhammad Ali first appeared on the Sports Illustrated magazine's cover and went on to be featured on numerous covers during his career.
1963: Release of "I Am the Greatest" Album
In 1963, Muhammad Ali released an album of spoken word music on Columbia Records titled, "I Am the Greatest", which sold 500,000 copies and has been identified as an early example of rap music.
1966: Different strokes for different folks
In 1966, Ali popularized the quote "Different strokes for different folks", which later inspired the title of the 1967 Syl Johnson song "Different Strokes".
1966: Pledge to Donate to the UNCF
In late 1966, Muhammad Ali pledged to donate a total of $100,000 to the United Negro College Fund (specifically promising to donate much of the proceeds of his title defense against Cleveland Williams) and paid $4,500 per closed circuit installation at six HBCUs so they could watch his fights.
1967: Inspiration for Syl Johnson song "Different Strokes"
In 1967, Ali's quote "Different strokes for different folks" inspired the title of the Syl Johnson song "Different Strokes", which became one of the most sampled songs in pop music history.
1967: Donation to the United Negro College Fund
In 1967, Muhammad Ali became the largest single black donor to the United Negro College Fund by way of a $10,000 donation ($78,000 in 2020 USD).
1968: Influence on Black Poetic Tradition
In 1968, Muhammad Ali's use of rhyme schemes and spoken word poetry in boxing and activism played a role in shaping the black poetic tradition, paving the way for The Last Poets.
1969: Interview on trash talking
In a 1969 interview, Muhammad Ali stated that he met with "Gorgeous George" Wagner in Las Vegas in 1961, where George told him talking a big game would attract fans who wanted to see him win or lose. This inspired Ali to become a self-described "big-mouth and a bragger".
1970: Ali Honored with Martin Luther King Award
In 1970, Muhammad Ali was honored with the annual Martin Luther King Award by Ralph Abernathy, who recognized him as a "living example of soul power."
1970: Influence on Black Poetic Tradition for Gil Scott-Heron
In 1970, Muhammad Ali's use of rhyme schemes and spoken word poetry in boxing and activism played a role in shaping the black poetic tradition, paving the way for Gil Scott-Heron.
1972: Hajj Pilgrimage to Mecca
In 1972, Muhammad Ali went on the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, which gave him a different outlook and greater spiritual awareness.
1974: Peak Television Viewership
Between 1974 and 1980, Muhammad Ali's fights were some of the world's most-watched television broadcasts, drawing an estimated 1–2 billion viewers worldwide.
1974: Viewership of Ali's fights
Between 1974 and 1980, Muhammad Ali's fights were watched by an estimated 1–2 billion viewers, showcasing his global appeal and impact as a world champion boxer.
1975: Publication of "The Greatest: My Own Story"
In 1975, Muhammad Ali's autobiography "The Greatest: My Own Story", co-written with Richard Durham, was published.
1975: Construction of Ali Mall began
In 1975, construction of Ali Mall, the first of its kind in the Philippines, began shortly after Muhammad Ali's victory in a match with Joe Frazier in nearby Araneta Coliseum.
1976: Opening of Ali Mall
In 1976, Ali Mall, located in Araneta Center, Quezon City, Philippines, opened and was named after Muhammad Ali. Ali attended the opening.
1976: Ali's bout with Antonio Inoki
In 1976, Muhammad Ali had a bout with Antonio Inoki. In 1995, Ali led a group of Japanese and American professional wrestlers, including his 1976 opponent Antonio Inoki and Ric Flair, on a sports diplomacy mission to North Korea.
1977: Dedication to Helping People After Retirement
In 1977, Muhammad Ali stated that, after he retired, he would dedicate the rest of his life to getting "ready to meet God" by helping people, charitable causes, uniting people, and helping to make peace.
1977: Release of "The Greatest" Film
In 1977, Muhammad Ali's book "The Greatest: My Own Story" was adapted into a film called "The Greatest", in which Ali played himself and Ernest Borgnine played Angelo Dundee.
1978: Featured in Superman vs. Muhammad Ali
In 1978, Ali was featured in Superman vs. Muhammad Ali, a DC Comics comic book pitting him against Superman.
1978: Featured on British TV program This Is Your Life
In 1978, Ali was the subject of the British television program This Is Your Life, where he was surprised by Eamonn Andrews, celebrating his life and achievements.
1978: "Year of Ali" Proclamation and Street Renaming
In 1978, after becoming heavyweight champion for the third time, Muhammad Ali was honored in Louisville. Kentucky Governor Julian Carroll proclaimed 1978 as the "Year of Ali" and the Louisville Board of Aldermen voted to rename Walnut Street to Muhammad Ali Boulevard, which was controversial at the time because street signs were stolen.
1979: Guest starred in Diff'rent Strokes
In 1979, Ali guest starred as himself in an episode of the NBC sitcom Diff'rent Strokes, highlighting his influence on popular culture.
1980: Peak Television Viewership
Between 1974 and 1980, Muhammad Ali's fights were some of the world's most-watched television broadcasts, drawing an estimated 1–2 billion viewers worldwide.
1980: Viewership of Ali's fights
Between 1974 and 1980, Muhammad Ali's fights were watched by an estimated 1–2 billion viewers, showcasing his global appeal and impact as a world champion boxer.
1986: Mike Tyson Breaks Record
In 1986, Mike Tyson broke the record for the youngest boxer to win the heavyweight title by defeating Trevor Berbick at age 20. Tyson broke both records for youngest to win the heavyweight championship.
1987: California Bicentennial Foundation Selection
Around 1987, the California Bicentennial Foundation for the U.S. Constitution selected Ali to personify the vitality of the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights.
1988: Second Hajj Pilgrimage to Mecca
In 1988, Muhammad Ali went on another Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.
1989: Participation in Indian charity event
In 1989, Muhammad Ali participated in an Indian charity event with the Muslim Educational Society in Kozhikode, Kerala, along with Bollywood actor Dilip Kumar.
1990: Named one of the 100 most influential Americans of the 20th century
In 1990, Ali was recognized by Life magazine as one of the 100 most influential Americans of the 20th century, highlighting his significant impact and cultural relevance.
1990: Negotiating release of American hostages in Iraq
In 1990, Muhammad Ali traveled to Iraq before the Gulf War and met with president Saddam Hussein, successfully negotiating the release of American hostages. He promised to bring America an "honest account" of Iraq in exchange for the hostages' release. He subsequently received criticism for this action.
1991: Release of Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times
In 1991, the oral history biography Muhammad Ali: His Life and Times, by Thomas Hauser, was released, providing a comprehensive look into Ali's life.
1992: Lonnie Incorporates G.O.A.T. Inc.
In 1992, Lonnie Williams incorporated Greatest of All Time, Inc. (G.O.A.T. Inc) to manage Muhammad Ali's intellectual property for commercial use.
1993: Pancrase Foundation
In 1993, inspired by the Muhammad Ali vs. Antonio Inoki fight, Inoki's students Masakatsu Funaki and Minoru Suzuki founded Pancrase.
1993: Recognized as most recognized athlete
In 1993, the Associated Press reported that Ali was tied with Babe Ruth as the most recognized athlete in America, identified by over 97% of Americans over 12 years of age.
1994: Campaigning for aid to Rwandan refugees
In 1994, Muhammad Ali campaigned to the United States government to come to the aid of refugees afflicted by the Rwandan genocide, and to donate to organizations helping Rwandan refugees.
1995: Sports Diplomacy Mission to North Korea
In 1995, Muhammad Ali led a group of Japanese and American professional wrestlers, including Antonio Inoki and Ric Flair, on a sports diplomacy mission to North Korea and was guest of honor at the Collision in Korea wrestling event.
1996: Lighting of the torch at the Atlanta Olympics
In 1996, Ali's lighting of the torch at the Atlanta Olympics was watched by an estimated 3.5 billion viewers, marking a significant moment in his legacy and a symbol of his enduring impact.
1996: Lighting the flame at the Atlanta Summer Olympics
In 1996, Muhammad Ali lit the flame at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia, an event watched by an estimated 3.5 billion viewers worldwide.
1996: Replacement Medal and Olympic Torch
In 1996, Muhammad Ali received a replacement gold medal at the Georgia Dome during the Atlanta Olympics. He also had the honor of lighting the torch to start the Games, marking a significant moment in his legacy.
1996: When We Were Kings wins Academy Award
In 1996, the documentary When We Were Kings, about the Rumble in the Jungle, won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, celebrating Ali's iconic boxing match.
1997: Arthur Ashe Courage Award
In 1997, Muhammad Ali was the recipient of the Arthur Ashe Courage Award.
1997: Pride Fighting Championships Foundation
In 1997, Pancrase inspired the foundation of Pride Fighting Championships.
1997: Acceptance of a lesbian couple
In 1997, after Muhammad Ali met a lesbian couple who were fans of his, he expressed his happiness for their relationship, indicating his acceptance and desire for people to be happy.
1998: Biaggio Ali Walsh Born
In 1998, Biaggio Ali Walsh, grandson of Muhammad Ali, was born. He is an amateur MMA fighter.
1998: Collaboration with Michael J. Fox
In 1998, Muhammad Ali began working with actor Michael J. Fox, who also has Parkinson's disease, to raise awareness and fund research for a cure.
1999: Named in Time magazine's list of the 100 Most Important People of the 20th Century
In 1999, Ali was named in Time magazine's list of the 100 Most Important People of the 20th Century, alongside Pelé and Jackie Robinson, solidifying his status as a pivotal figure.
1999: Laila Ali's Boxing Career Begins
In 1999, Laila Ali, Muhammad Ali's daughter, began her professional boxing career, despite his initial opposition to women's boxing.
1999: Introduction of Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act
In 1999, The Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act was introduced.
2000: Collaboration with Michael J. Fox Foundation
In 2000, Muhammad Ali worked with the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research to raise awareness and encourage donations for research.
2000: Nico Ali Walsh Born
In 2000, Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of Muhammad Ali, was born. He is a professional boxer.
2000: Passing of Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act
In 2000, The Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act passed, to protect the rights and welfare of boxers in the United States.
January 2001: Presidential Citizens Medal
In January 2001, Muhammad Ali was presented with the Presidential Citizens Medal by President Bill Clinton.
2001: Will Smith's Oscar Nomination for Ali
In 2001, Will Smith received a Best Actor Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Ali in the biopic Ali.
2001: Response to 9/11 Attacks
In 2001, after the September 11 attacks, Muhammad Ali stated that "Islam is a religion of peace" and "does not promote terrorism or killing people", condemning the actions of extremist groups.
2001: Promotion of biopic and contribution to benefit concert
In 2001, despite his Parkinson's syndrome, Muhammad Ali promoted his own biopic, "Ali", and contributed to the America: A Tribute to Heroes benefit concert.
November 17, 2002: U.N. Messenger of Peace visit to Afghanistan
On November 17, 2002, Muhammad Ali traveled to Afghanistan as the "U.N. Messenger of Peace" for a three-day goodwill mission in Kabul as a special guest of the UN.
2002: Honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
In 2002, Ali was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, mounted on a vertical surface out of deference to his request that the name Muhammad not be walked upon.
2002: Joint appearance before Congress
In 2002, Muhammad Ali and Michael J. Fox made a joint appearance before Congress to push for Parkinson's research.
2003: Release of The Last Round: Chuvalo vs. Ali
In 2003, the documentary film The Last Round: Chuvalo vs. Ali, which focuses on Ali's 1966 fight against George Chuvalo, was released.
November 2005: Opening of the Muhammad Ali Center
In November 2005, Muhammad Ali and his wife Lonnie Ali opened the Muhammad Ali Center in downtown Louisville. The center focuses on peace, social responsibility, respect, and personal growth, and displays his boxing memorabilia.
November 2005: Presidential Medal of Freedom
In November 2005, Muhammad Ali was presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President George W. Bush.
December 2005: Otto Hahn Peace Medal in Gold
In December 2005, Muhammad Ali received the Otto Hahn Peace Medal in Gold from the UN Association of Germany (DGVN) in Berlin for his work with the civil rights movement and the United Nations.
2006: Sale of G.O.A.T. Inc.
In 2006, Greatest of All Time, Inc. (G.O.A.T. Inc), which Lonnie Williams incorporated, was sold.
2006: Ali Rap Documentary Production
In 2006, the documentary "Ali Rap" was produced by ESPN, with Chuck D of Public Enemy as the host. Other rappers narrated the documentary as well, including Doug E Fresh, Ludacris and Rakim who all spoke on Ali's behalf in the film.
June 2007: Honorary Doctorate from Princeton University
In June 2007, Muhammad Ali received an honorary doctorate of humanities at Princeton University's 260th graduation ceremony.
2007: Laila Ali's Boxing Career Ends
In 2007, Laila Ali, Muhammad Ali's daughter, retired from professional boxing.
2007: Ultimate Fighting Championship Acquired Pride
In 2007, Ultimate Fighting Championship Acquired Pride Fighting Championships.
2008: Created Sportsman Legacy Award
In 2008, Sports Illustrated's Sportsman Legacy Award was originally created.
September 1, 2009: Visit to ancestral home in Ireland
On September 1, 2009, Muhammad Ali visited Ennis, County Clare, Ireland, which was the home of his great-grandfather, Abe Grady. Grady emigrated to the U.S. in the 1860s, eventually settling in Kentucky.
July 27, 2012: Titular bearer of the Olympic flag
On July 27, 2012, Muhammad Ali was a titular bearer of the Olympic flag during the opening ceremonies of the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. Due to his Parkinson's syndrome, he was helped to his feet by his wife.
2013: The Trials of Muhammad Ali Documentary
In 2013, Muhammad Ali's resistance to the draft was covered in the documentary, "The Trials of Muhammad Ali".
November 2015: Paris Attacks
The November 2015 Paris attacks occurred. The attacks prompted Muhammad Ali to release a statement in December condemning the ruthless violence of so-called Islamic jihadists and calling for Muslims to stand up to those who use Islam to advance their agendas.
December 2015: Response to the Paris Attacks
In December 2015, after the November 2015 Paris attacks, Muhammad Ali stated that "True Muslims know that the ruthless violence of so-called Islamic jihadists goes against the very tenets of our religion" and that Muslims must stand up to those who use Islam to advance their agendas.
2015: Sports Illustrated's Muhammad Ali Legacy Award
In 2015, Sports Illustrated renamed its Sportsman Legacy Award to the Sports Illustrated's Muhammad Ali Legacy Award.
2015: Recognizable athletes in the United States
In 2015, a Harris Poll found that Ali was one of the three most recognizable athletes in the United States, alongside Michael Jordan and Babe Ruth, highlighting his enduring fame and cultural significance.
May 2016: Bill introduced to extend Ali Act
In May 2016, a bill was introduced to United States Congress by Markwayne Mullin, a politician and former MMA fighter, to extend the Ali Act to mixed martial arts.
June 3, 2016: Death
On June 3, 2016, Muhammad Ali passed away. Ali was a global cultural icon, often regarded as the greatest heavyweight boxer of all time.
June 9, 2016: Islamic Janazah prayer service
On June 9, 2016, Muhammad Ali's funeral services began in Louisville with an Islamic Janazah prayer service at Freedom Hall, attended by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
June 10, 2016: Funeral procession and public memorial service
On June 10, 2016, Muhammad Ali's funeral procession passed through Louisville, ending at Cave Hill Cemetery. A public memorial service was held at the KFC Yum! Center, with eulogies given by figures like Billy Crystal and former President Bill Clinton. The memorial was watched by an estimated 1 billion viewers worldwide.
June 2016: Proposal to eliminate Selective Service System
In June 2016, US senator Rand Paul proposed an amendment to the US draft laws named after Ali, a proposal to eliminate the Selective Service System.
2016: Estimated fortune after death
Following his death in 2016, Muhammad Ali's fortune was estimated to be between $50 million and $80 million.
2016: Bob Arum Reflects on Ali's Impact
In 2016, Ali's promoter Bob Arum stated that Ali's impact on the world far surpassed his boxing exploits and acknowledged that Ali was right to stand up for what he believed in, even though Arum didn't support his choice at the time.
2016: Muhammad Ali Voice of Humanity Honor Created
In 2016, The Society of Voice Arts and Sciences created the Muhammad Ali Voice of Humanity Honor, which is presented at its annual Voice Arts Awards. The award was created in collaboration with the Muhammad Ali Center.
2016: Development of Muhammad Ali docuseries
In early 2016, Ken Burns began developing the four-part docuseries Muhammad Ali, which was later released in September 2021.
January 2017: Muhammad Ali Commemorative Coin Act Introduced
In January 2017, the Muhammad Ali Commemorative Coin Act was introduced into the 115th Congress but was not enacted.
2018: DNA Testing
In 2018, DNA testing revealed that Muhammad Ali was a descendant of Archer Alexander through his paternal grandmother. Archer Alexander was a former slave and the model for the Emancipation Memorial.
January 16, 2019: Airport Renaming
On January 16, 2019, the Louisville Regional Airport Authority voted to change the name of the city's main airport to "Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport" in honor of Muhammad Ali.
June 6, 2019: Airport Logo Unveiling
On June 6, 2019, the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport unveiled its new logo, featuring Ali's silhouette, arms up and victorious, against the background of a butterfly.
2019: Release of What's My Name: Muhammad Ali
In 2019, Antoine Fuqua's documentary What's My Name: Muhammad Ali was released, adding to the numerous creative works about his life.
2020: Value of 1967 Donation in 2020 USD
In 1967, Muhammad Ali made a $10,000 donation to the United Negro College Fund. In 2020, the value of that donation would be $78,000 USD.
September 2021: Broadcast of Muhammad Ali docuseries on PBS
In September 2021, documentary filmmaker Ken Burns released the four-part docuseries Muhammad Ali, spanning over eight hours on Ali's life, which was broadcast on PBS.
October 2021: Auction of Ali's Artworks
In October 2021, 26 of Muhammad Ali's drawings and arts were placed on auction and sold for close to US$1 Million.
2024: Induction into WWE Hall of Fame
In 2024, Muhammad Ali was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by The Undertaker at the ceremony.
2025: Debut of musical Ali
In spring 2025, the officially authorized musical Ali, based on Ali's life, will debut at the Nederlander Theatre in Chicago, before moving to Broadway.
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