Muhammad Ali's well-known verse Muhammad Ali has died: "Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee" and other famous poems from the legendary boxer. Ali was one of the most significant sports stars in American history and the world over. He was born Cassius Marcellus Clay on January 17th 1913 and raised by his mother after his father died when he was six years old. He started boxing at age 14 and won his first fight using only one hand because of injury. After winning more than 50 fights, he decided to change his fighting style from orthodox to southpaw which made him even more popular with fans. In 1967 he became the first person to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his work with charities helping African Americans who had been affected by slavery and segregation. After retiring from boxing in 1981, he continued to be involved in politics and religion and was also known for his witty remarks and inspirational speeches. His death today at 74 years old is still being mourned by people all over the world. Clay joined the US Army at age 18 and served during World War II. When he returned home he found that many black Americans had not taken up arms against their white oppressors and so he began to do so himself. This led to several fights where he defended his title against various opponents including Jose Torres, John Tate, and Sonny Liston.