February 1964
Events
- February 25, 1964Cassius Clay shocks the world, defeats Sonny Liston for heavyweight title
The 22-year-old Cassius Clay defeated heavyweight champion Sonny Liston in Miami Beach, stunning the boxing world. Clay announced his conversion to Islam and adoption of the name Muhammad Ali the following day, beginning one of the most consequential athletic and political careers in American history.
- February 25, 1964Cassius Clay Announces Name Change to Muhammad Ali
The day after winning the heavyweight title, Clay announced his membership in the Nation of Islam and his new name Muhammad Ali. The announcement shocked the sports world and positioned Ali as the most politically polarizing athlete in American history.
- February 25, 1964Cassius Clay wins the heavyweight title
The future Muhammad Ali stuns the world and soon becomes a global icon.
Resources from this period
Videos·1
Drawn History: The Story of Muhammad Ali
HISTORY