Muhammad Ali

The Greatest transcended boxing to become the 20th century's most significant sporting figure through talent, charisma, and conviction. Ali's speed, movement, and psychological warfare revolutionized heavyweight boxing from slugging to sweet science. His Vietnam stance, sacrificing prime years for principle, demonstrated courage beyond the ring. The Louisville Lip's verbal brilliance made him sport's first modern media personality. His 56 wins included epic trilogies with Frazier and Foreman that defined boxing's golden era. Ali's battle with Parkinson's disease and continued dignity influenced public perception of the condition.