Conversation so far:
What started Muhammad Ali's career?
Muhammad Ali was first directed toward boxing by boxing coach Joe E. Martin, who encountered the 12-year-old fuming over a thief's having taken his bicycle.
Did Muhammad Ali have anyone who influenced him?
Muhammad Ali credits trainer Fred Stoner with giving him the real training, eventually molding my style, my stamina and my system.“
Did Muhammad Ali get any recognition during his amateur career?
Muhammad Ali went on to win six Kentucky Golden Gloves titles.

Question: Was he ever sponsored?
Self-contained rewrite: Was Muhammad Ali ever sponsored?