February 25, 1964: Who was the loudmouth who beat Sonny Liston? (more) Today in History—February 25: Muhammad Ali Becomes the Undisputed World Champ Written by Michele Metych Michele Metych is the lead editor for Today in History at Encyclopædia Britannica. Michele Metych Fact-checked by Britannica Editors Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Britannica Editors Last updated Feb. 23, 2026 •History February 25, 1964: Who was the loudmouth who beat Sonny Liston?© Bettmann/Getty Images; Photo Illustration Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc. On this day in 1964 Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr., shocked the boxing world: The unpredictable and often showy amateur took on Sonny Liston, the reigning heavyweight champion—and won. Today in History is a daily newsletter from Britannica.Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc. Want to learn more about what happened on February 25, or any other day of the year? Sign up...

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