Muhammad Ali's Greatest Hits

The Greatest turns 70.

The Greatest in the Game - Former heavyweight champion boxer Muhammad Ali is known as much for his sharp jab as his sharp tongue. On Jan. 17, 2012, The Greatest, as he will forever be known, celebrates his 70th birthday. Take a look back at his biggest accomplishments so far.—Britt Middleton
A Legend Is Born - Muhammad Ali, whose given name is Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr., was born on January 17, 1942, in Louisville, Kentucky. The boxer, who proclaimed himself “The Greatest” fighter of all time, learned to fight after having his bicycle stolen as a boy. (Photo: EMPICS /Landov)
Olympic Gold - In 1960, Clay earned a spot on the U.S. Olympic Boxing Team and traveled to Rome, Italy, to compete. The six-foot-three Ali was known for his lightning-quick footwork and powerful jab. After dominating his first three bouts, he defeated Zbigniew Pietrzkowski from Poland to win the gold medal.(Photo: Henry Cooper.  EMPICS /Landov)World Heavyweight Champion - Never short on confidence, Clay had earned the nickname, "The Louisville Lip.” In 1964, the 22-year-old backed up his big talk and defeated Sonny Liston after six grueling rounds, becoming the world heavyweight champion. Upon his iconic win, the champion repeatedly yelled "I'm the greatest!" and "I shook up the world!"(Photo: Central Press/Getty Images)

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The Greatest in the Game - Former heavyweight champion boxer Muhammad Ali is known as much for his sharp jab as his sharp tongue. On Jan. 17, 2012, The Greatest, as he will forever be known, celebrates his 70th birthday. Take a look back at his biggest accomplishments so far.—Britt Middleton

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