Boxer Cassius Clay rises from the amateur ranks to win gold at the 1960 Olympics and become a contender for the heavyweight championship title.
Cassius Clay joins the Nation of Islam and takes on the name Muhammad Ali; when he refuses induction into the U.S. Army, he loses his title and is forced into exile.
After his return from exile, Muhammad Ali battles Joe Frazier and the U.S. government as he attempts to regain the heavyweight title.
Muhammad Ali defeats George Foreman, winning back the heavyweight title; after retiring in 1981, he travels the world as a symbol of peace and hope.
Cassius Clay rises from amateur boxer to 1960 Olympic gold medal winner. He turns professional and moves to Miami.
In Miami, Ali sharpens his boxing skills and hones his genius for self-promotion. In 1964, he shocks the world by upsetting the heavily favoured Sonny Liston to win the heavyweight championship.
Ken Burns
Director
Sarah Burns
Writer
David McMahon
