Muhammad Ali Refuses the Vietnam War Draft | PBS

Official Website: | #MuhammadAliPBS Prior to his match against Foley, Ali received news he had been drafted to fight in Vietnam. When Ali arrived to be inducted in the United States Armed Forces, however, he refused, citing his religion forbade him from serving. The cost for his refusal would prove to be drastic: the stripping of his heavyweight title, a suspension from boxing, a $10,000 fine, and a five-year prison sentence. For more excerpts from Muhammad Ali, check out our playlist: Watch the full film at This program is made possible by viewers like you. Support your local PBS station: Subscribe to the PBS channel for more clips: Enjoy full episodes of your favorite PBS shows anytime, anywhere with the free PBS Video App: FOLLOW US: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram: Shop: Muhammad Ali brings to life one of the most indelible figures of the 20th century, a three-time heavyweight boxing champion who captivated millions of fans across the world with his mesmerizing combination of speed, grace, and power in the ring, and charm and playful boasting outside of it. Ali insisted on being himself unconditionally and became a global icon and inspiration to people everywhere.