Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Clay (1942–2016), was not only a legendary boxer but also a prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement. Known for his unparalleled skill in the ring and his charismatic personality, Ali used his fame to challenge racial injustice and advocate for equality. After converting to Islam and changing his name, he rejected his "slave name" and embraced his identity as a Black Muslim, inspiring many to take pride in their heritage. Ali made headlines in 1967 when he refused to be drafted into the Vietnam War, citing his religious beliefs and opposition to the war's treatment of marginalized communities. This decision cost him his boxing title and nearly his career, but it cemented his reputation as a principled activist. Ali's unapologetic stance against systemic racism, his fight for dignity, and his advocacy for peace and justice made him a powerful voice in the broader struggle for civil rights, transcending sports to become a global icon for social change.