He was né Clay

Answer:

ALI

Hint:

This legendary boxer and activist famously declared "I am the greatest" after changing his name from Cassius.

Explanation:

This clue refers to Muhammad Ali, the legendary boxer who was born Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. The French word "né" means "born as," so "né Clay" hints at his original name. The answer is simply his more famous name: ALI.

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General solving tip

When a clue says 'informally,' 'slangily,' or 'casually,' think slang, clipped forms, or texting abbreviations. Try the short casual word you'd use in speech or a message.

More tips → General Hints