A red-and-white Schwinn bicycle launched his boxing career
At the age of 12 Ali’s beloved bicycle was stolen in October 1954, he then reported the theft to Louisville, Kentucky, police officer Joe Martin and insisted to punish the culprit. Martin, who was also a boxing trainer, then suggested the upset angry youngster should first learn how to fight, and so he decided to take Clay under his wing. Six weeks later, little Ali won his first bout in a split decision.