Muhammad Ali is an icon of the boxing world and a hero to millions of people around the globe. His passions and interests went far beyond the ring, however, and he left a legacy of hobbies and pursuits that are fascinating to explore. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the hobbies and interests that defined the life of this legendary athlete and public figure.
Boxing
Of course, we must start with the hobby that made Muhammad Ali a household name. Born Cassius Clay Jr., this boxer quickly developed a reputation for his speed, agility, and ferocious punches. He won his first heavyweight boxing championship in 1964, and throughout his career, he was known for his trash talking, iconic poses, and impressive footwork. He retired in 1981 with an incredible record of 56 wins and just 5 losses, cementing his status as one of the greatest boxers of all time.
Poetry
One of the lesser-known aspects of Muhammad Ali’s life was his love of poetry. Throughout his boxing career, he would often write and recite poems that talked about his beliefs, his experiences, and his dreams. Some of his most famous poems include “I Am the Greatest” and “The Champ Is Here.” While he may have been known for his physical prowess, Ali was also a masterful wordsmith who used poetry to express himself in new and engaging ways.
Reading
In addition to writing his own poetry, Muhammad Ali also loved to read the works of others. He was particularly drawn to works that spoke to issues of social justice and equality, and he even carried books with him to read while he was on the road. Some of his favorite authors included the poet Langston Hughes and the civil rights leader Malcolm X. By reading and engaging with important social issues, Ali showed that he was more than just a boxer – he was a thoughtful and engaged member of society.
Music
Another of Ali’s passions was music. He was known to sing and play instruments, and he even recorded a spoken-word album in the 1960s that included his poetry set to music. His love of music was seen in his appearances on talk shows and in his performances at charity events.
Philanthropy
Finally, Ali was deeply committed to philanthropy throughout his life. He established the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center in Phoenix to help those struggling with the disease, and he was a strong supporter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. He visited countless hospitals and charities over the years, always eager to make a difference in the lives of others.
In conclusion, Muhammad Ali was much more than just a boxer. He was a multifaceted and complex individual with a diverse range of interests and passions. From boxing to poetry, from reading to music, and from philanthropy to activism, Ali’s legacy is one of creativity, passion, and engagement with the world around him. He was a true inspiration to many, and his legacy continues to inspire us all today.
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