by Mike Hazelwood

Created on: February 28, 2007   Last Updated: May 02, 2007

I am the greatest.
-Muhammad Ali

Kentucky, the Bluegrass state, has birthed many famous black figures, but the most famous in sports history came out of Louisville, Kentucky. The fabulous and famous black figure was the one and only Mohammed Ali.

I figured that if I said it enough, I would convince the world that
I really was the greatest.
-Muhammad Ali

Growing up I could not wait to watch Mohammed Ali fight. My dad and I never failed to watch the Ali fights, which were broadcast on Network TV back in those days. Some of the greatest memories I have with my father, was watching the greatest fighter in history prance his stuff across the ring.

It's just a job. Grass grows, birds fly, and waves pound the sand.
I just beat people up
-Muhammad Ali

I remember watching Mohammad Ali fight many great fighters back in the day. Another of my favorite fighters was George Forman.

"The Rumble in The Jungle." The world-renowned fight was fought October 27,1974. This fight was one of the most famous fights in Mohammad Ali's career. I remember Mohammad Ali's quick punches, and his hysterical comments made after his fight. My conscious and memory still burns with Mohammad Ali's, famous saying, ""I Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee."

It's lack of faith that makes people afraid of meeting challenges,
And I believe in myself
-Muhammad Ali

Watching Mohammad Ali and growing up with his charisma, made me the person who I am today. Mohammad Ali was never afraid to meet the challenges he faced in his fights and his life. Even today, after being stricken Parkinson's disease since 1984, Mohammad Ali still stands as an icon in my mind.

The man who has no imagination has no wings.
-Muhammad Ali

My challenge to you during black history month, find someone who has influenced your life. The biggest thing to remember is, dare to dream! If you can imagine something, you can achieve it!

Mohammad Ali, you are loved by my family and you will continue to be loved forever.

Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali was born Cassius Clay in Louisville, Kentucky. Ali is considered the greatest boxer of all time. Ali won a Gold Medal in the 1960 Rome Olympics and that same year won his first professional fight. In 1964, Ali defeated Sonny Liston to gain the title of "Heavyweight Champion Of The World." In 1967, Ali was stripped of his boxing title, because his Muslim faith was against the war in Vietnam. After winning an appeal by the U.S. Supreme Court, Ali defeated Heavyweight Champion George Foreman. Ali became the first boxer in heavyweight history to win the World Title Championship three times. (History)

Learn more about this author, Mike Hazelwood.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.