Muhammad Ali
Sunday, Sept. 19-Wednesday, Sept. 22, at 8 PM
A new four-part documentary directed by acclaimed filmmaker Ken Burns follows the life of Muhammad Ali, one of the most consequential men of the 20th century. The new series, which was in development for six years, was also written and co-directed by Sarah Burns and David McMahon.
Drawing from an extraordinary trove of archival footage and photographs, contemporary music, and the insights and memories of eyewitnesses—including family and friends, journalists, boxers and historians—Burns, Burns and McMahon have created a sweeping portrait of an American icon. The series details the story of the athlete who called himself ”the greatest of all time” and competed in some of the most dramatic and widely viewed sporting events ever.
Round One: The Greatest (1942-1964)
Sunday, Sept. 19, at 8 PM
Repeats Sunday, Sept. 19, at 10:15 PM and Monday, Sept. 20, at 2 AM
Airs on Fusion on Sunday, Sept. 26, at noon
Boxer Cassius Clay rises up the amateur ranks to win gold at the 1960 Olympics. He turns professional, sharpening his boxing skills and honing his genius for self-promotion.
Round Two: What’s My Name? (1964-1970)
Monday, Sept. 20, at 8 PM
Repeats Monday, Sept. 20, at 10 PM and Tuesday, Sept. 21, at 1 AM
Airs on Fusion on Sunday, Sept. 26, at 2:25 PM
Cassius Clay publicly joins the Nation of Islam and takes the name Muhammad Ali. When he refuses induction into the Army, he is stripped of his title and forced into exile.
Round Three: The Rivalry (1970-1974)
Tuesday, Sept. 21, at 8 PM
Repeats Tuesday, Sept. 21, at 10 PM and Wednesday, Sept. 22, at 1 AM
Airs on Fusion on Sunday, Sept. 26, at 4:20 PM
Muhammad Ali battles his fiercest rival, Joe Frazier, as he attempts to regain the heavyweight title. He will also have to beat George Foreman.
Round Four: The Spell Remains (1974-2016)
Wednesday, Sept. 22, at 8 PM
Repeats Wednesday, Sept. 22, at 10 PM and Thursday, Sept. 23 at 1 AM
Airs on Fusion on Sunday, Sept. 26, at 6:20 PM
Muhammad Ali shocks the world by defeating George Foreman, winning back the heavyweight title and becoming the most famous man on earth. After retiring, he becomes a symbol of peace and hope.