The life of Muhammad Ali: A look back at the boxing legend's professional career

Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Clay and hailed from Louisville, Kentucky, is one of the most well-known, influential boxers of all time. Nicknamed "the greatest," Ali fought in many historic matches that are still remembered long after his death.  (Getty Images )

In 1960, Muhammad Ali was part of the United States boxing team for the Olympics in Rome. He won a gold medal in the light heavyweight division during the games. (Getty Images )

When Muhammad Ali returned from the Olympics, his professional career officially kicked off. His first professional fight was against Tunney Hunsaker, a professional boxer from Kentucky, who is widely remembered for being the first professional opponent of Ali's. A young 18-year-old Ali defeated Hunsaker in a six-round decision.  (Getty Images )

In 1963, Muhammad Ali fought against Doug Jones, a New York native, who was a strong boxing opponent to many fighters through the 1960s. Ali won the fight in front of a sold out crowd at Madison Square Garden by unanimous decision after ten rounds.  (Getty Images )

On Feb, 25, 1964, Muhammad Ali became a heavyweight champion for the first time. He defeated Sonny Liston for the title. Charles "Sonny" Liston was a professional boxer and world heavyweight champion out of Arkansas. (EyeOn/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

The same year Muhammad Ali became a heavyweight champion, he converted to Islam and changed his name. The name Muhammad Ali was given by his spiritual mentor, Elijah Muhammad. Before it became official, he went by the name Cassius X. Prior to that, he went by his birth name Cassius Clay.  (Afro American Newspapers/Gado/Getty Images)

In 1967, Muhammad Ali refused to be drafted into the military on the grounds of his religious