Muhammad Ali lights Olympic torch at 1996 Games

Ali, who was dealing with Parkinson's disease, was also awarded an honorary gold medal to replace the one from 1960 that he claims he tossed in the river in frustration after being denied service at a restaurant.RANK: 68 LOCATION: Centennial Olympic Stadium | Atlanta, Ga. DATE: 7/19/1996 CATEGORY: Summer Olympics

Muhammad Ali shocked the world when he was revealed as the surprise cauldron lighter at the 1996 Olympic Games opening ceremony.