Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali

Birth : 1942-01-17, Louisville, Kentucky, USA

Death : 2016-06-03

History

Muhammad Ali (born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr.; January 17, 1942 – June 3, 2016) was an American professional boxer, activist, entertainer and philanthropist. Nicknamed The Greatest, he is widely regarded as one of the most significant and celebrated figures of the 20th century and as one of the greatest boxers of all time. Ali was born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky. He began training as an amateur boxer at age 12. At 18, he won a gold medal in the light heavyweight division at the 1960 Summer Olympics and turned professional later that year. He became a Muslim after 1961. He won the world heavyweight championship from Sonny Liston in a major upset on February 25, 1964, at age 22. On March 6, 1964, he announced that he no longer would be known as Cassius Clay but as Muhammad Ali. In 1966, Ali refused to be drafted into the military, citing his religious beliefs and ethical opposition to the Vietnam War. He was found guilty of draft evasion so he faced 5 years in prison and was stripped of his boxing titles. He stayed out of prison as he appealed the decision to the Supreme Court, which overturned his conviction in 1971, but he had not fought for nearly four years and lost a period of peak performance as an athlete. Ali's actions as a conscientious objector to the Vietnam War made him an icon for the larger counterculture generation, and he was a very high-profile figure of racial pride for African Americans during the civil rights movement and throughout his career. As a Muslim, Ali was initially affiliated with Elijah Muhammad's Nation of Islam (NOI). He later disavowed the NOI, adhering to Sunni Islam, and supporting racial integration like his former mentor Malcolm X. Ali was a leading heavyweight boxer of the 20th century, and he remains the only three-time lineal champion of that division. His joint records of beating 21 boxers for the world heavyweight title and winning 14 unified title bouts stood for 35 years. He is the only fighter to have been ranked as the world's best heavyweight by BoxRec twelve times. He has been ranked among BoxRec's ten best heavyweights seventeen times, the third most in history. He won 8 fights that were rated by BoxRec as 5-Star, the third most in the history of the heavyweight division. Ali is the only boxer to be named The Ring magazine Fighter of the Year six times. He has been ranked the greatest heavyweight boxer of all time, and as the greatest athlete of the 20th century by Sports Illustrated, the Sports Personality of the Century by the BBC, and the third greatest athlete of the 20th century by ESPN SportsCentury. He was involved in several historic boxing matches and feuds, most notably his fights with Joe Frazier, such as the Fight of the Century and the Thrilla in Manila, and his fight with George Foreman, known as The Rumble in the Jungle, which has been called "arguably the greatest sporting event of the 20th century" and was watched by a record estimated television audience of 1 billion viewers worldwide, becoming the world's most-watched live television broadcast at the time. Ali thrived in the spotlight at a time when many fighters let their managers do the talking, and he was often provocative and outlandish. He was known for trash-talking, and often free-styled with rhyme schemes and spoken word poetry, anticipating elements of hip hop.

Profile

Muhammad Ali

Movies

My Father Muhammad Ali
Self (archive footage)
The story of champion boxer Muhammad Ali through the eyes of his only biological son, Muhammad Ali Jr., who struggled with bullying, abandonment, addiction, family and heartbreak to ultimately find peace.
McEnroe
Self (Archival Footage)
Legendary "bad boy of tennis" John McEnroe finally tells his side of his storied career and famously hot-tempered performances on the court in this engrossing documentary revisiting the record-setting career of one of the all-time greats.
Blood Brothers: Malcolm X & Muhammad Ali
Self
From a chance meeting to a tragic fallout, Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali's extraordinary bond cracks under the weight of distrust and shifting ideals.
City of Ali
City of Ali is a feature-length documentary that tells the story of how the death of Muhammad Ali brought the people of his Kentucky hometown - and the world - together for one unforgettable week.
Street Gang: How We Got to Sesame Street
Self (archive footage)
Take a stroll down Sesame Street and witness the birth of the most influential children's show in television history. From the iconic furry characters to the classic songs you know by heart, learn how a gang of visionary creators changed the world.
Mister Candid Camera
Self (archive footage)
The story of the life and career of comical genius Allen Funt, and his legacy as the mastermind of the Candid Camera radio and TV shows.
Pelé
Self (Archival Footage)
Against the backdrop of a turbulent era in Brazil, this documentary captures Pelé's extraordinary path from breakthrough talent to national hero. Mixing rare archival footage and exclusive interviews, this documentary celebrates the legendary Brazilian footballer who personified football as art.
Da 5 Bloods
Self (archive footage) (uncredited)
Four African-American Vietnam veterans return to Vietnam. They are in search of the remains of their fallen squad leader and the promise of buried treasure. These heroes battle forces of humanity and nature while confronted by the lasting ravages of the immorality of the Vietnam War.
Ali's Comeback: The Untold Story
Self (archive footage)
An unusual group of people who came together in the most unlikely location to make it possible for the greatest athlete on the planet to have a career once again.
Sonny Liston - La vera storia
Self (archive footage)
Overcoming the seemingly insurmountable odds that life threw his way, Liston became heavyweight champion of the world when he knocked out Floyd Patterson in 1962. Eight years later, he died but friends questioned the cause of his death.
Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am
Self (archive footage)
This artful and intimate meditation on the legendary storyteller examines her life, her works, and the powerful themes she has confronted throughout her literary career. Toni Morrison leads an assembly of her peers, critics, and colleagues on an exploration of race, history, the United States, and the human condition.
Africa Rising
Self - Boxer (archive footage)
How African artists have spread African culture all over the world, especially music, since the harsh years of decolonization, trying to offer a nicer portrait of this amazing continent, historically known for tragic subjects, such as slavery, famine, war and political chaos.
Thrilla in Manilla
Self
The 'Thrilla in Manila' was the third and final epic contest between the irrepressible heavyweight champion of the world, Muhammad Ali, and the hard-hitting former champ Smokin' Joe Frazier. Now you can relive that extraordinary night in the Philippines on October 1st 1975 with this special video. Including all 14 rounds, this really is a must watch for all boxing fans.
Rumble in the Jungle
Self
Take a trip back to Zaire to relive one of the most historic chapters in boxing history, where the young and physically superior heavyweight champion, George Foreman, took on the former champ and people's favourite Muhammad Ali. With superb archive footage, loads of interviews and the entire fight, this video provides an action-packed look at perhaps the greatest heavyweight bout of all time.
The Kennedy Who Changed The World
Self (archive footage)
Bill Clinton, Nicole Scherzinger and members of the Kennedy family reveal how JFK's sister Eunice used sport to change the lives of people with intellectual disabilities.
The Champ and the King
Himself
On February 14, 1973 Elvis presented Muhammad Ali with an 'Elvis Style' robe emblazoned with the words, 'People's Choice' on the back in rhinestones and jewels. The wording was a mistake as Ali was known as the 'The Peoples Champion'. Elvis was very upset about this but it too late. Ali thanked Elvis for the robe then went directly to the Las Vegas Convention Center for his fight that night against Joe Bugner where he wore Elvis' robe for the first time. Often the story is told he did not wear it this night, but as you can see in the video clip below, he sure did, and he won the fight too! As an aside Sammy Davis Jr was ringside for the fight and bought into the ring post fight by Ali.
Black Is Beltza
Self (voice) (archive footage)
New York City, October 10, 1965. A group of wooden giant figures from Pamplona, representing Basque culture and traditions, parade down the street; but the local authorities have not allowed the appearance of all of them: due to the racial prejudices that persist in many sectors of society, the participation of two black giants has been banned.
Ali & Cavett: The Tale of the Tapes
Himself (archive footage)
The life and times of Muhammed Ali shown through the lens of his numerous appearances on The Dick Cavett Show. The film features new interviews with Dick Cavett, Rev. Al Sharpton, and Larry Merchant, as well as archival material from the Cavett Show.
Andre the Giant
Self (archive footage)
An ambitious and wide-ranging documentary exploring Andre’s upbringing in France, his celebrated career in WWE, and his forays in the entertainment world.
Muhammad Ali - Rumble in the Jungle
Self (archive footage)
Sticky: A (Self) Love Story
Himself
"Sticky" is everything your mother was too embarrassed to tell you about masturbation, in one stimulating documentary. Full of candid interviews from celebrated figures to everyday people, health care professionals, sex therapists, zoologists, anthropologists, and religious figures, this feature length doc answers age-old questions like: What is masturbation? Will it make me go blind? Is it "normal"? Is it wrong? And why are we so afraid to be caught in the act? In a world where confusion about sexuality remains at the root of so many societal problems - rape, sexual abuse, and the threat of sexually transmitted diseases - "Sticky" will help shatter misconceptions and myths surrounding this intimate aspect of human sexuality.
Les vendredis d'Apostrophes
Self (archive footage)
40 years of "Apostrophes". Hours and historical meetings, Pierre Assouline has composed an anthology of the best extracts presented in the form of a primer, which he had commented on by a surprised Bernard Pivot.
I Am Ali
Himself
Unprecedented access to Muhammad Ali's personal archive of "audio journals" as well as interviews and testimonials from his inner circle of family and friends are used to tell the legend's life story.
Muhammad Ali: The Greatest
Self (Archival Footage)
Hear from the people who knew him best, from experts of the world of boxing, relive the legendary fights and explore the life of boxing's greatest symbol, Ali.
Muhammad Ali's Greatest Fight
Himself (archive footage)
Muhammad Ali’s historic Supreme Court battle from behind closed doors. When Ali was drafted into the Vietnam War at the height of his boxing career, his claim to conscientious objector status led to a controversial legal battle that rattled the U.S. judicial system right up to the highest court in the land.
Legends of Mid-South Wrestling
Himself
For the first time ever, WWE presents the Legends of Mid-South Wrestling. One of the 1980’s hottest territories, Mid-South garnered national attention for its revolutionary storytelling and bruising, athletic matches orchestrated by no-nonsense promoter, “COWBOY” BILL WATTS. Now, the legends and Hall of Famers who cut their teeth in Mid-South share their tales of the fabled proving ground as we deliver OVER 20 classic confrontations from legends Ted DiBiase, Andre The Giant, Shawn Michaels, Ric Flair, Sting, Muhammad Ali, and many more…
The Trials of Muhammad Ali
Himself
Brash boxer Cassius Clay burst into the American consciousness in the early 1960s, just ahead of the Civil Rights movement. His transformation into the spiritually enlightened heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali is legendary, but this religious awakening also led to a bitter legal battle with the U.S. government after he refused to serve in the Vietnam War. This film reveals the perfect storm of race, religion and politics that shaped one of the most recognizable figures in sports history.
WWE: Undertaker 20-0 - The Streak
Self (archive footage)
Walk the dark and hallowed path of he who cannot be buried. The Apocalyptic Warrior who has denied salvation to twenty souls to forge an eternal streak. The dynasty of The Deadman becomes immortal in Undertaker: The Streak. Hear the tales of Shawn Michaels, Triple H, Batista, Big Show, Randy Orton and other victims who have dared to stare across the ring into the cold eyes of The Phenom. From Undertaker's WrestleMania VII debut vs. Jimmy Superfly Snuka to his agonising war with Triple H and the illustrious opponents in between, every chilling encounter is presented here from bell-to-bell.
Norman Mailer: The American
Self
A provocateur, a rebel, a performer, and a true American, Norman Mailer never stopped giving people something to talk about. This documentary goes beyond the Mailer of the bookshelves and NY Times best seller list to Mailer the social critic, family man, filmmaker, and lover. Here's a look into the life of a complex, intellectual, working class hero. With never before seen footage of Adele Morales Mailer's startling revelations after being stabbed by her husband. Featuring unseen footage and interviews from wives and lovers, enemies and admirers, his children and the man himself.
The Real Rocky
Himself (Archive Footage)
Chuck Wepner is a liquor salesman from Bayonne, N.J., who drives a Cadillac with “Champ” vanity plates. A former New Jersey State Heavyweight Boxing Champion, he took abuse from Sonny Liston, got his nose broken by Muhammad Ali, and inspired Sylvester Stallone to write “Rocky” which won three Academy Awards. Wepner was left out of the “Rocky” glory, and his career took turn after strange turn as he worked to stay in the spotlight: he went on to fight Andre the Giant as “The Assassin” and boxed a 900 pound bear. Twice.
Muhammad and Larry
Himself
In October of 1980 Muhammad Ali was preparing to fight for an unprecedented fourth heavyweight title against his friend and former sparring partner Larry Holmes. To say that the great Ali was in the twilight of his career would be generous; most of his admiring fans, friends and fight scribes considered his bravado delusional. What was left for him to prove? In the weeks of training before the fight, documentarians Albert and David Maysles took an intimate look at Ali trying to convince the world and perhaps himself, that he was still “The Greatest.” At the same time, they documented the mild-mannered and undervalued champion Holmes as he confidently prepared to put an end to the career of a man for whom he had an abiding and deep affection
Muhammad Ali: Fighting Spirit
himself
Born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jnr in 1942, Muhammad Ali changed his name when he converted to Sunni Islam in 1975. A hard hitting, fast talking powerhouse, Ali was crowned 'Sportsman of the Century' by Sports Illustrated and the BBC in 1999.
Facing Ali
Himself
Ten of Muhammad Ali's former rivals pay tribute to the three-time world heavyweight champion.
When Ali Met Cathal
Muhammad Ali
In advance of his fight with Al ‘Blue’ Lewis at Croke Park in Dublin, Cathal O’Shannon interviews Muhammad Ali about boxing, and his life outside the ring. When a fight is coming up Muhammad Ali (formally Cassius Marcellus Clay, junior) admits he deliberately intimidates his opponent. He does this because historically in America black people have always been taught to be subservient. ’Muhammad Ali V Cathal O’Shannon′ was filmed in RTÉ Television’s Studio 1 on 17 July 1972. It was first broadcast on 18 July 1972, the night before the fight with Al ‘Blue’ Lewis at Croke Park. The programme was re-mastered in 2008. This was re-edited and re-transmitted as ‘When Ali Met Cathal’ on 5 January 2009.
Thrilla in Manila
Himself (archive footage)
On October 1, 1975, World Heavyweight Boxing Champion Muhammad Ali was in the ring with his arch rival Joe Frazier for the third time. This fight in the Philippines, which has been nicknamed "Thrilla in Manila," is considered one of the most dramatic boxing matches in history - in the words of the voice-over, "They hated each other." With the help of archive material and eyewitness accounts (including Imelda Marcos), this documentary not only reconstructs the match, but shows us what was happening behind the scenes as well.
Soul Power
Himself (archive footage)
Soul Power is a 2008 documentary film about the Zaire 74 music festival in Kinshasa which accompanied the Rumble in the Jungle heavyweight boxing championship match between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman in October 1974. The film was made from archival footage; other footage shot at the time focusing on the fight was edited to form the film When We Were Kings.
Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson
Self
Fueled by a raging libido, Wild Turkey, and superhuman doses of drugs, Thompson was a true "free lance, " goring sacred cows with impunity, hilarity, and a steel-eyed conviction for writing wrongs. Focusing on the good doctor's heyday, 1965 to 1975, the film includes clips of never-before-seen (nor heard) home movies, audiotapes, and passages from unpublished manuscripts.
Muhammad Ali: Made in Miami
Himself
Documentary chronicles the many ways in which the city of Miami helped transform little-known Olympic boxing into world-renowned, three-time heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali. Archival footage and interviews explore how the Fifth Street Gym along with the city's civil rights movement and vibrant African American community helped shape both the career and personal values of one of boxing's most outspoken figures.
Tyson
Director James Toback takes an unflinching, uncompromising look at the life of Mike Tyson--almost solely from the perspective of the man himself. TYSON alternates between the controversial boxer addressing the camera and shots of the champion's fights to create an arresting picture of the man.
James Brown - The Night James Brown Saved Boston
Self (archive footage)
On April 5, 1968, soul legend James Brown performed a concert in Boston that many say shielded that city from the kinds of devastating riots that ripped other cities apart after the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr.
American Gangster
Thanks
Following the death of his employer and mentor, Bumpy Johnson, Frank Lucas establishes himself as the number one importer of heroin in the Harlem district of Manhattan. He does so by buying heroin directly from the source in South East Asia and he comes up with a unique way of importing the drugs into the United States. Partly based on a true story.
Ali's Dozen
Self
Ali's Dozen profiles the 12 rounds that defined his genius, showcasing Ali the boxer and by extension, Ali the man.
WWE: Hulk Hogan: The Ultimate Anthology
Muhammad Ali
The best and most memorable matches from Hulk Hogan's career.
Darts Tarts – Welcome to my World
Self (archive footage)
Jacques Peretti sets out to find out what happened to the game that obsessed him as a kid. In this documentary, he presents an eye-opening account of the sport's heady popularity in the 1970s and 1980s.
Ali Rap
Himself
Iconic, eclectic, and internationally renowned, Muhammad Ali was much more than a boxer; he articulated the moods and thoughts of a generation. With his profound statements on the sports world and beyond, Ali captivated the nation with his unpredictable and unforgettable raps and rhymes. This dynamic film is a poetic account of the life and career of Ali…in his own words. Based upon the book by George Lois and hosted by rapper Chuck D, Ali Rap features classic Ali quotes from the man himself as well as guest stars. Discover how the ‘Greatest of All Time’ was an entertaining and provocative messenger of some of today’s most best known sound bytes.
Legends Never Die
Self (archive footage)
Death Has Fallen on Deaf Ears in the World of Professional Sports. Step into the ring and watch all the action as fists fly when Legendary Wrestlers Roddy Piper, Bruno Sammartino, Mick Foley, Dominick Denucci, Shane Douglas, Balls Mahoney, Missy Hyatt, Raven, Mikey Whipwreck, Hillbilly Cousin Luke, Davey O'Hannon, Nikolai Volkoff and many more pro wrestling stars of yesterday and today do battle as they take on the dark forbidden questions that nobody has wanted to ask until now. 3-years in the making, legends never die contains more than 90 minutes of hard hitting interviews and action packed, high flying, heart pounding footage.
TV in Black: The First Fifty Years
Self (archive footage)
Discover how television has reflected the African American experience in this retrospective of the medium's first half-century. Actors, writers and historians discuss the image of black America on television from Amos and Andy to the present day. The interviews accompany clips from groundbreaking shows and performances by entertainment pioneers that create a timeline of the portrayal of African Americans throughout TV history.
Jack Paar: Smart Television
Self
PBS documentary examining the work of Jack Paar.
The Last Round: Chuvalo vs. Ali
Himself
Get a ringside seat for one of the most unforgettable fights in the history of boxing with this documentary that explores the legendary match between Muhammad Ali and Canadian underdog George Chuvalo at Toronto's Maple Leaf Gardens in 1966.
The Documented Life and Times of Muhammad Ali - The Greatest
Charting the life and times of Muhammad Ali, this documentary begins in Louisville, Kentucky, the birthplace of the future World Heavyweight champion and follows his career from his first amateur fight against Ronnie O'Keefe (for which he was paid the princely sun of $4.00) to the most famous fights of his life: "The Rumble in the Jungle" and "The Thriller in Manilla". Featuring classic footage from legendary fights, as well as interviews with his trainer Angelo Dundee and contributions from Henry Cooper, Joe Bugner and George Forman, this comprehensive guide to Ali’s life and times pays tribute to his unique, warm, and effervescent and charismatic character who took the boxing world by storm.
Muhammad Ali - Through The Eyes Of The World
Himself
"This is a kid who just said it. I'm the greatest - and he said it with poetry. And I don't mean just the poems that he wrote but with the poetic energy, the poetic spirit" - James Earl Jones. Through the eys of the world is a unique account of one of the great icons of the 20th century, told by family, friends and fans from all over the world.
Michael Jackson: 30th Anniversary Celebration
himself
The Michael Jackson: 30th Anniversary Special was a 2001 New York City revue show by Michael Jackson. It took place on September 7, 2001 and September 10, 2001. In late November 2001, the CBS television network aired the concerts as a two-hour special in honour of Michael Jackson's thirtieth year as a solo entertainer (his first solo single, "Got to Be There", was recorded in 1971). The show was edited from footage of two separate concerts Michael had orchestrated in New York City's Madison Square Garden on September 7 and September 10 of 2001. The shows sold out in five hours. Ticket prices were pop's most expensive ever; the best seats cost $5,000 and included a dinner with Michael Jackson and a signed poster.
America: A Tribute to Heroes
A benefit concert and telethon organized by George Clooney and broadcast uninterrupted and commercial-free by the four major television networks just 10 days after the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center and The Pentagon to raise money for the victims and their families,
Ali-Frazier I: One Nation... Divisible
Self
In sports history, there are moments that define the essence of competition. In boxing, it is a 1971 fight known as Ali-Frazier I. This documentary chronicles the events that led to what many call 'The Fight of the Century,' in which undefeated heavyweight champion Smokin' Joe Frazier went to war in Madison Square Garden against undefeated deposed champion Muhammad Ali.
Champions Forever - World Heavyweight Champs!
Himself
Previously unseen footage, seeing and hearing the champions interviewed and talking to each other at a private dinner party hosted by baseball’s legendary great, Reggie Jackson. Ali, Frazier, Foreman, Holmes, Norton. For more than twenty years, these kings of boxing ruled the ring as they passed the world heavyweight title from one to the other. Now for the first time, see them all come face to face – gloves off – in an unprecedented video event. Footage from over 30 fights, which include 15 title matches, featuring interviews and news events as they occurred during each champion’s reign.
Freestyle: The Art of Rhyme
Himself
From neighborhood ciphers to the most notorious MC battles, "Freestyle: the Art of Rhyme" captures the electrifying energy of improvisational hip-hop--the rarely recorded art form of rhyming spontaneously. Like preachers and jazz solos, freestyles exist only in the moment, a modern-day incarnation of the African-American storytelling tradition. Shot over a period of more than seven years, it is already an underground cult film in the hip-hop world. The film systematically debunks the false image put out by record companies that hip-hop culture is violent or money-obsessed. Instead, it lets real hip-hop artists, known and unknown, weave their story out of a passionate mix of language, politics, and spirituality.
Muhammad Ali - The Greatest Collection
Ali's greatest fights in full length with original microphone 1. I Shook Up the World: Clay vs. Liston (1964) 2. Rumble in the Jungle: Ali vs. Foreman (1974) 3. Thrilla in Manila: Ali vs. Frazier III (1975)
Sugar Ray Robinson: The Bright Lights and Dark Shadows of a Champion
Himself
This sports documentary tells the remarkable story of the man voted the greatest boxer in history. Spanning his career from the early Depression-era days until his death in 1989, this special brings to light the many sides of Robinson: flashy public icon, womanizer, comeback kid, philanthropist, fighter. Includes rare film footage, never-before-seen home movies and interviews.
B.B. King: Live In Africa '74
Self
In 1974, Muhammad Ali and George Foreman held their heavyweight title fight in Zaire, billing it as the "Rumble in the Jungle". A three-day music festival was staged concurrently, and B.B. King was the headlining act. Anyone who has ever had the fortune to see B.B. King play live, even in his later, seated years knows that he is a consummate showman. B.B. King: Live in Africa '74 presents the man at the peak of his powers, as a performer and as a player.
The Best of the Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts
Self - Roastee (archive footage)
Video series spotlighting memorable moments and roasts hosted by Dean Martin. "Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts" were periodic specials aired in the 1970s and 1980s, which roasted (or honored) such stars as Lucille Ball, Muhammad Ali and Johnny Carson; guests then recalled comedic moments they shared. Comedian Rich Little (a regular on the "Roast" specials) served as pitchman for the videos in a series of TV infomercials
When We Were Kings
Self
It's 1974. Muhammad Ali is 32 and thought by many to be past his prime. George Foreman is ten years younger and the heavyweight champion of the world. Promoter Don King wants to make a name for himself and offers both fighters five million dollars apiece to fight one another, and when they accept, King has only to come up with the money. He finds a willing backer in Mobutu Sese Suko, the dictator of Zaire, and the "Rumble in the Jungle" is set, including a musical festival featuring some of America's top black performers, like James Brown and B.B. King.
Muhammad Ali The Whole Story
Self
Muhammad Ali. He is known as the most thrilling athlete of all time... he is known as The Greatest. The remarkable story of how he became one of the most loved, hated, intriguing, and controversial figures in American history is brought to life in the 6-hour series, Muhammad Ali: The Whole Story. Episode 1: Olympic Gold. Episode 2: The Youngest Heavyweight Champion. Episode. 3: Exile. Episode 4: The Road Back. Episode 5: The Rumble In The Jungle Episode. 6: The Thrilla In Manila.
The Journey of the African-American Athlete
Self (archive footage)
Documentary feature exploring the rise of African-Americans to positions of greatness in American sports. Stories are told of boxers, tennis players, runners, and basketball players, athletes who either suffered the indignities of racism, helped break down its walls, or enjoyed the opportunities afforded by past struggles.
Boxing's Greatest Champions
Boxing Writers of America select the best fighters of all time in each weight division, leading up to their selection of The Greatest Fighter Of All Time. Includes action footage of Sugar Ray Robinson, Rocky Marciano, Joe Louis, Muhammad Ali and more!
Kings of The Ring - History of Heavyweight Boxing 1919-1990
Himself (Archival Footage)
The BBC produced “Kings of The Ring – History of Heavyweight Boxing 1919-1990” celebrates boxing’s marquee division. Comprehensive and nonjudgmental, it begins with Jess Willard’s victory over Jack Johnson in Cuba and runs through the Mike Tyson era.
Kings of the Ring: Four Legends of Heavyweight Boxing
Himself
This comprehensive HBO presentation documents the history of heavyweight boxing through the 20th century, beginning with Jess Willard's victory over Jack Johnson in the early 1900s and running through the reign of the controversial Mike Tyson.
WCW Halloween Havoc 1994
Himself (Ringside)
Halloween Havoc 1994 took place on October 23, 1994 from the Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, Michigan. The main event was a Steel Cage career vs. career match between Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship. Other matches included The Nasty Boys vs Terry Funk & Bunkhouse Buck, The Guardian Angel vs Vader, Jim Duggan vs Steve Austin in defense of the WCW US Heavyweight Championship, Dustin Rhodes vs Arn Anderson, Kevin Sullivan vs Dave Sullivan, Johnny B. Badd vs The Honky Tonk Man in defense of the WCW World TV Championship, and Pretty Wonderful challenging Stars & Stripes for the WCW World Tag Team Championships.
Naked Sport: Welcome to the Sewer
Self
Produced by PBS in 1992, this documentary explores the darker side of boxing. It follows the career of a young Shannon Briggs and includes interviews with Evander Holyfield, Larry Holmes, Teddy Atlas, Dan Duva, Kathy Duva, Lou Duva, Bobby Czyz, Bob Arum, Mike Marley and even Muhammad Ali.
Malcolm X
Self (archive footage) (uncredited)
A tribute to the controversial black activist and leader of the struggle for black liberation. He hit bottom during his imprisonment in the '50s, he became a Black Muslim and then a leader in the Nation of Islam. His assassination in 1965 left a legacy of self-determination and racial pride.
Night Of 100 Stars III
Self
A celebrity benefit for The Actors' Fund of America, featuring music, songs, dance and comedy.
Champions Forever
Self
No other film has the sweeping review of Ali's greatest fights, the legendary fight footage, and the real time relevant comments and conversations with the men who made him "The Greatest." Muhammad Ali was simply the greets and he proved by going up against the most incredible fighters of all time, together they made the world of sports stand still as they battled for dominance.
Doin' Time
Himself
Duke Jarrett is sent to jail at the John Dillinger prison. However, the prison looks more like a zoo, more or less ruled by the prisoners themselves.
WrestleMania
Referee
The first annual WrestleMania professional wrestling pay-per-view event taking place on March 31, 1985, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The show featured nine professional wrestling matches with the main event match pitting Hulk Hogan and Mr. T against Roddy Piper and Paul Orndorff.
Best of the WWF Volume 1
Himself
The best action that the WWF has to offer.
James Bond: The First 21 Years
Self
A look back at the first 21 years of Britain's most successful film series.
Body and Soul
Himself
A young man struggles to become a boxing champ, but success blinds him. It is only through the love of his girlfriend that he is brought back to reality.
Diana
Self
Diana Ross' 1981 TV special featuring live concert footage from The Forum mixed with studio performances.
Muhammad and Larry
Through the poetic lens of visionary filmmakers Albert and David Maysles, Muhammad and Larry explores the unique and poignant relationship between two great boxers and two remarkable men who were more than just competitors. They were once teacher and student, and remain close friends.
Freedom Road
Gideon Jackson
Ex-slave and former Union soldier Gideon Jackson represents other ex-slaves at the constitutional convention, and is soon elected to the U.S. Senate despite opposition from white landowners, law enforcement and the KKK. He unites with sharecropper Abner Lait, who helps Jackson unite ex-slaves and white tenant farmers.
Leon Spinks vs Muhammad Ali II
Leon Spinks vs. Muhammad Ali II, was a professional boxing match contested on September 15, 1978, in New Orleans for the WBA and Lineal Heavyweight Championships. The fight was estimated to have been watched by a record 2 billion viewers worldwide,in some 80 nations. Ali entered the rematch as a 2½ to 1 favorite. ABC televised the fight live in the United States. The network paid $5.3 million for the rights. An estimated audience of 90 million viewers watched the main event in the United States.The bout drew a 46.7 rating, meaning 46.7 percent of TV sets in the nation were tuned in. The attendance at the Superdome was 63,350 which at the time was the largest indoor attendance ever for a boxing match.
The Greatest
Novel
Muhammad Ali's life story up to the late 1970s, which includes his Olympic triumphs as Cassius Clay, his conversion to Islam, his refusal of the Army draft and the legal battle after being stripped of his World Title.
The Greatest
Cassius Clay / Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali's life story up to the late 1970s, which includes his Olympic triumphs as Cassius Clay, his conversion to Islam, his refusal of the Army draft and the legal battle after being stripped of his World Title.
Muhammad Ali vs. Joe Frazier III
Himself
The Thrilla in Manila was the third and final famous boxing match between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier for the Heavyweight Boxing Championship of the World, fought at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines on October 1, 1975. The bout is often ranked as one of the greatest fights of 20th century boxing, and is the climax to the bitter rivalry between Ali and Frazier. When Ali was stripped of the title in 1967 over his refusal to join the armed forces when drafted during the Vietnam War, Frazier had petitioned President Nixon to restore Ali's right to box and even lent Ali money.
Funny Girl to Funny Lady
Self
A benefit concert for the Special Olympics and an opportunity to promote Streisand's upcoming film (Funny Lady), this special was a combination of Streisand interview with Dick Cavett and Streisand concert. Attended by President Gerald Ford and a star-studded audience, the concert section features a handful of Funny Lady songs and a couple of Barbra standards. Streisand's Funny Lady co-star James Caan also makes an onstage appearance for a duet of Paper Moon / I Like Him and Muhammed Ali presents Barbra with a special award.
モハメッド・アリ 黒い魂 STAND UP LIKE A MAN
Self
1974 Toei documentary about Ali
The Fight
Himself
In 1971, maverick filmmaker William Greaves trained his cameras on both Muhammad Ali and his opponent, Joe Frazier, ahead of the “Fight of the Century” at New York’s Madison Square Garden. The epic battle was supposed to be Ali's big comeback following the suspension of his boxing license in 1967. In addition to the media circus surrounding both combatants, Greaves shot the match in its entirety from a dizzying array of camera angles, making the director's cut of The Fight both an invaluable historical document as well as a virtuosic piece of filmmaking
Money Talks
Self
From Allen Funt, the creator of TV's "Candid Camera." The hidden camera is pointed at people dealing with money in all sorts of human and, often, hilarious circumstances.
Malcolm X
Self (archive footage)
James Earl Jones narrates this fascinating and moving documentary about the life of the assassinated black leader through various sources.
Black Rodeo
Self
Documentary about a rodeo that takes place, for the most part, in Harlem.
Fight of the Century
Self
a.k.a. Cassius Clay
Himself
The study of crazy brilliance and flamboyant sincerity. a.k.a. Cassius Clay presents a fascinating look at the incredible life and achievements of one of the most courageous, outspoken and charismatic figures of boxing: Muhammad Ali. Born Cassius Clay in 1942, Ali soon rose to become a renowned athlete, an articulate author and a compelling political; leader. Audacious, ambitious and totally fearless, Ali became a symbol of pride, a legend of hope and one of the most extraordinary cultural icons of the 20th century.
The Super Fight
Himself
Retired, undefeated Heavyweight World champion Rocky Marciano and the then current undefeated Heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali, sparred together with the footage then being edited to the instructions of a computer that had been designed to work out the result of this fantasy fight.
Muhammad Ali: The Greatest
Himself
Universally accepted as a true icon of the 20th century, Muhammad Ali’s phenomenal achievements spanned sport, politics and religion. One man – photographer William Klein had comprehensive access to the events that shaped Ali’s legend. In 1964, the young gregarious Cassius Clay successfully defeated the seemingly invincible Heavyweight Champion of the World Sonny Liston – the manner of Clay’s victory and his amazing persona made him an instant superstar. Through this incredible period, and Clay’s subsequent rematches with Liston, William Klein enjoyed unrivalled access top Clay’s camp – witnessing at first hand Cassius Clay becoming Muhammad Ali and angering the American people with his allegiance to Islam. Forward to Zaire 1974, and the return of Muhammad Ali to the world stage to face another invincible champion George Foreman. As Ali reclaimed the crown for a second time, Klein was ever present, capturing the full story at close quarter.
Muhammad Ali vs Sonny Liston II
Himself
Because of the unexpected ending of the first bout, the World Boxing Council ordered a rematch, this time with Liston as challenger. The World Boxing Association disagreed, as immediate rematches were against its rules, and stripped Ali of his title. Originally scheduled for the Boston Garden in Boston, Massachusetts in November 1964, the fight was postponed six months when Ali needed emergency surgery for a strangulated hernia.
Cassius le grand
Portrait of American boxer Cassius Clay.
Muhammad Ali vs Sonny Liston I
Himself
The 32 year old Liston defended his title against the 22 year old Clay on February 25, 1964, in Miami Beach, Florida, Clay weighed in at 206lbs while Liston was 218 lb. Many of those watching were surprised during the referee's instructions to see that Clay was considerably taller than Liston, the so called 'Big Bear'.
Requiem for a Heavyweight
Himself (as Cassius Clay)
Mountain Rivera is a veteran heavyweight and near-champion who suddenly finds himself washed up in the only trade he knows—prizefighting. Yet, threatened by gangsters for welshing on a gambling debt, Mountain’s opportunistic manager, Maish Rennick, schemes to get the ex-boxer into a phony wrestling match to make some quick money. Although he and his loyal trainer, Army, oppose the degrading proposition, the disillusioned Mountain begins to wonder if he has any options left.