We all know Muhammad Ali was exceptionally good at knocking people out; he was perhaps even the greatest boxer of them all. But what most people don't know is that he also dedicated his life to helping others and participating in various humanitarian activities. He believed that boxing would not be enough to create the impact he desired and that by advocating for freedom, justice, and equality, he might make the world a better place. Muhammed Ali began his charitable works as a young athlete, donating money from his fights even before winning his first world heavyweight title in 1964. As he continued to make a name for himself in the world of boxing, he became more involved in several peace missions and was later named the United Nations Messenger of Peace. The boxing legend dedicated his life to humanitarian causes such as promoting world peace, fighting for racial equality, religious liberty, hunger relief, and intercultural understanding. Ali even used his fame to settle disputes between enemy countries, send aid to war-torn countries and secure the release of hostages!
After losing the battle to Parkinson's disease, the Louisville-born boxer died at the age of 74 at a hospital not far from his Arizona home. Several world leaders have recognized him as a symbol of peace and reconciliation. Ali dedicated his life to being a citizen of the people, earning him the title of "The World's Most Recognized Person."
This book attempts to capture and describe some of the humanitarian efforts Ali was a part of during his life, alongside key events and influences that shaped who he became and what he strived for. He may no longer be here physically, but his legacy will go on to inspire generations to come. Indeed, his life and influence outside of the ring was in some ways more remarkable than that inside.
