There is only one Muhammad Ali

Boxing legend, gold medal winner and Louisville, Kentucky native, Muhammad Ali celebrates his 70th birthday on January 17th 2012.

Muhammad Ali was born Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr on January 17th 1942 in Louisville, Kentucky - a place in which he still calls home. Throughout his boxing career Ali clocked up 56 wins and only 5 defeats.

In 1999 Ali was names BBC Sports Personality of the Century and Kentucky Athlete of the Century at a prestigious ceremony at the Galt House Hotel in Louisville.

On November 19th 2005 the Muhammad Ali Centre in Louisville was opened. In addition to housing his boxing memorabilia including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the centre also focuses on core themes of peace, social responsibility, respect and personal growth.

The Muhammad Ali Centre is open Tuesdays through to Sundays and entrance is US$9 for adults and US$4 for children. There is an opportunity to learn the full history of Ali's life and interact with many of the exhibits including shadow boxing with the Champ to practice rhythm on the speed bag and a chance to learn the techniques of the sport from Muhammad Ali's daughter, Laila Ali. For more information visit alicenter.org.

Experience Ali's hometown of Louisville staying at the Galt House Hotel with America As You Like It. Packages start from £735 per person and include flights and accommodation for five nights. For more information and reservations visit americaasyoulikeit.com.

For more information about Kentucky visit kentuckytourism.co.uk.