Ali

(2001)

In Ali (2001), Cassius Clay, a confident and bold pro boxer, emerges onto the sports scene after winning an Olympic gold medal in 1964. Clay becomes famous for his self-assured attitude and his conviction that he is the greatest boxer of all time, breaking barriers for African Americans in the sport. As he rises to prominence, his agile and forceful style earns him the heavyweight championship. Clay's personal life is equally captivating, as he aligns himself with the Nation of Islam, forms a friendship with the controversial Malcolm X, and changes his name to Muhammad Ali.

However, Ali's life takes a dramatic turn when the draft rules are altered, making him eligible for military induction during the Vietnam War. Despite being offered a cushy deal to avoid combat, Ali refuses on the principle that he will not support an unjust war fought by a racist nation that has treated his people unfairly. This decision comes at a high cost, with Ali being unable to legally box in the United States as his case is challenged in court.

Ali tells the story of a man who sacrifices everything for his beliefs and stages an epic comeback that solidifies his status as one of the greatest sports figures of all time.