Boxing legend Muhammad Ali has passed away aged 74 it was confirmed on Saturday (4th June). SNTV takes a look at the early part of his career.

Muhammad Ali has died aged 74 it was announced on Saturday (4th June).

The boxing legend was born Cassius Marcellus Clay in Kentucky, on 17th January 1942.

He later changed his name to Muhammad Ali after his involvement in the Nation of Islam civil rights movement.

Ali was first introduced to boxing at the age of 12, after seeking revenge for the theft of his bicycle.

The police officer he reported the theft to was called Jo Martin, and he suggested Ali take up the sport.

After impressing as an amateur Ali shot to national fame after winning the light-heavyweight gold medal at the Rome Olympic Games in 1960.

Following the games Ali turned pro and won all 19 of his fights over a three year period.

In 1964 Ali faced Sonny Liston for the world heavyweight title. At the weigh-in Ali claimed he would "float like a butterfly and sting like a bee."

And that's exactly what the underdog did, stunning Liston to become the heavyweight champion of the world.

Successful title defences were made in rematches against Liston and Henry Cooper, and Floyd Paterson was another notable name dispatched during this era.