Muhammad Ali: 5 Career-Defining Victories That Made Him 'The Greatest'
Muhammad Ali's career spans 21 years of legendary boxing achievements, with several fights that defined the sport's history. Here are his most significant victories that shaped his legacy as "The Greatest."
The Rumble in the Jungle against George Foreman (1974) stands as perhaps Ali's most iconic triumph. Despite being a 32-year-old underdog facing an undefeated champion, Ali employed his famous "rope-a-dope" strategy to exhaust Foreman before securing an eighth-round knockout in front of the largest television audience of its time.
Ali's first world title came in 1964 when, as Cassius Clay, he defeated the feared Sonny Liston. The 22-year-old Olympic champion forced Liston to quit after six rounds, declaring "I shook up the world!" This victory marked the beginning of a new era in heavyweight boxing.
The Thrilla in Manila (1975) concluded Ali's trilogy with Joe Frazier in spectacular fashion. Watched by an estimated billion viewers, this brutal contest ended when Frazier's corner stopped the fight before the 15th round, giving Ali the victory in what became known as one of boxing's greatest battles.
Against Cleveland Williams in 1966, Ali delivered what many consider his most technically perfect performance. He showcased his legendary footwork, including the famous "Ali Shuffle," landing over 100 punches and scoring four knockdowns in just three rounds.
The controversial rematch with Sonny Liston in 1965 ended with the famous "Phantom Punch" - a lightning-fast right hand that knocked Liston out in the first round. Though surrounded by controversy, this victory remains one of Ali's most memorable defenses of his heavyweight title.
