Work & Influence

During his retirement, Ali spent most of his time to philanthropy and he supported the Special Olympics and the Make-A-Wish Foundation, between other organizations.

Ali travelled to many countries including Mexico and Morocco to help out people in need. He was chosen to be a United Nations Messenger of Peace because of his work in developing nations.

In 2009, for his public service efforts, Ali received the President`s Award from the NAACP soon after Obama`s inauguration.

In 2005, Ali opened the Muhammad Ali Center in his hometown Kentucky and he said "I am an ordinary man who worked hard to develop the talent I was given, many fans wanted to build a museum to acknowledge my achievements. I wanted more than a building to house my memorabilia. I wanted a place that would inspire people to be the best that they could be at whatever they chose to do, and to encourage them to be respectful of one another."

After retiring from boxing career, Ali became involved in social causes and politics. He campaigned for democratic political candidates addressing poverty and the needs of children. He also helped American Government, releasing four kidnapped Americans in Lebanon in 1985.

In 1990, Ali went to Iraq to negotiate and successfully released fifteen American hostages.

Muhammad Ali has raised over fifty million dollars for charities throughout the world.