Important figure in Shia Islam (3)

I believe the answer is:

ali

(Other definitions for ali that I've seen before include "Ring' specialist" , "Mohammad . . ., . . . Hewson" , "Muhammad ___ (or MacGraw?)" , "Muhammad --, US boxer" , "Lepidopterous floater, apian stinger, d. 2016" .)

I've seen this clue in the LA Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.