Boxer Cassius Clay rises from the amateur ranks to win gold at the 1960 Olympics, and becomes a contender for the heavyweight championship title.

Cassius Clay joins the Nation of Islam and takes on the name Muhammad Ali; when he refuses induction into the US Army, he loses his title and is forced into exile.

After his return from exile, Muhammad Ali battles Joe Frazier and the US government as he attempts to regain the heavyweight title.

Muhammad Ali defeats George Foreman, winning back the heavyweight title; after retiring in 1981, he travels the world as a symbol of peace and hope.