When Muhammad Ali, then known as Cassius Clay, defeated Sonny Liston to win his first pro title, he ran around the ring shouting, "I shocked the world!" It was only the beginning. In the years to come, the world's eyes were glued to this outspoken, brash African-American, who stuck by his religious beliefs and refused to fight in the Vietnam War. Ali saved his battles for the ring. "This may shock and amaze ya," he boasted in rhyme, "but I'm gonna beat Joe Frazia!" Ali lost to Frazier in the "Fight of the Century" but defeated him in the "Thrilla in Manila." All told, Muhammad won 20 world heavyweight title fights. Ali is still active today, travelling the world for charitable causes. He has been called the most famous athlete in history. "I am the greatest," Ali often said. "Of all time!"
