Muhammad Ali's real name was Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr.
Muhammad Ali's Original Identity
Born on January 17, 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky, the globally renowned boxing icon Muhammad Ali was initially named Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. This was the name by which he was known during the initial phase of his illustrious professional boxing career.
His decision to change his name to Muhammad Ali occurred in 1964. This significant change followed his conversion to Islam and his association with the Nation of Islam. The adoption of a new name was a profound spiritual and personal statement, symbolizing his new identity and commitment to his faith. The name Muhammad translates to "praiseworthy," and Ali means "exalted," reflecting the esteemed qualities he embodied throughout his life.
Key Biographical Details
To provide further context about his life and identity, here is a summary of key biographical details related to Muhammad Ali:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Birth Name | Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. |
| Born | January 17, 1942, Louisville, Kentucky, U.S. |
| Died | June 3, 2016 (aged 74), Scottsdale, Arizona, U.S. |
| Known As | Muhammad Ali |
The transformation from Cassius Clay to Muhammad Ali is a pivotal aspect of his enduring legacy, embodying not only a personal spiritual journey but also serving as a powerful symbol of self-determination and the civil rights movement in the 20th century.
