On this day, June 20, 1967, heavyweight boxing champion Cassius Clay was sentenced to five years for refusing to join the U.S. Army.
The fast talking 25-year-old Clay, now known by his Muslim name Muhammad Ali, became heavyweight champion of the world after defeating Sonny Liston in 1964.
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Clay appeared at the selective service office but refused to step forward when his name was called and take part in the Army induction oath. He said his religion prevented him from participating in the war. He was immediately stripped of his title.
Clay was vilified by many for becoming a conscientious objector to U.S. involvement in Vietnam.
The Supreme Court reversed his conviction in 1971.
Ali, now 70, was named “Sportsman of the 20th century” by Sports Illustrated.
