Special Report by Sherlene Shanklin

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — 84 years ago today the ‘Greatest of All Time’ (GOAT) was born as Cassius Clay, who the world would know as Muhammad Ali. The professional boxer, activist, humanitarian and global icon grew up with his brother Rahaman in Louisville, both attending Central High School.

Ali started boxing at the age of 12. Just a few years later at the age of 18, he competed in the 1960 Summer Olympics, winning the gold medal for the lightweight division.

He joined the Nation of Islam in the early 1960’s.

On February 25, 1964, Ali won the world heavyweight championship at the age of 22 defeating Sonny Liston which was considered an upset.

Ali had 61 fights, winning 56, 37 of those victories were by KO.

Ali, a father of nine children, died on June 3, 2016, at the age of 74, bringing thousands to Louisville just to be close to his hometown.

His legacy continues to live on from the Muhammad Ali Center, his childhood home, family and friends. Earlier this week, the ‘People’s Champ’ finally received a United State Postal Service, (USPS) stamp. In true Ali fashion, he’s knocking out records by selling out in multiple post offices in just a few days of its unveiling.

Muhammad Ali’s contributions, strength and legacy continues to live on.

The Muhammad Ali Center located at 144 N. 6th Street built in 2002 is a six story almost 97,000 square foot museum and cultural center will remember him and Dr. Martin Luther King on Monday, January 19th gives fans a chance to tour for free all day. The are calling it the Community Free Day.

Contact Sherlene Shanklin at sherlene@sherleneshanklin.com or follow me on Facebook, TikTok , or Instagram.