In the Face of Adversity: Muhammad Ali's Conscientious Objection

Muhammad Ali, once publicly Muslim and Heavyweight Champion of the World, faced backlash in many forms, especially in the news. In this era, people feared the Nation of Islam and those in the boxing world saw his religion as a threat to the sport's image. Ali still implored people to understand that his religion was one of peace and no one should worry about what he had going on in his personal life.

In November of 1965, Ali was in Las Vegas, Nevada, to face a former Heavyweight Champion, Floyd Patterson. Leading up to the November 22 fight, newspapers reported that Patterson was experiencing discomfort attributed to the Nation of Islam, which was often referred to by reporters as the "Black Muslims", as there were rumors that his training camp was threatened. Patterson stated, "I would like to bring the title back to America and free boxing from the Black Muslims." His statements would earn him support from those who disapproved of Ali's faith. 

Patterson Longs to Free Boxing from Muslims - The Louisville Times, November 17, 1965