Muhammad Ali, the charismatic, three-time world heavyweight champion has died at the age of 74. Ali was hospitalized in the Phoenix-area on Thursday for a respiratory condition. He was placed on life support as his condition worsened and later passed away on Friday.
Ali, born Cassius Clay, made his mark on the world at an early age. At 22, he fought Sonny Liston who was the world reigning heavyweight champion. Ali won by a TKO and, in doing so, became the youngest ever to take the title from a reigning champion. After the historic fight, Ali, always one to speak his mind, ran ringside and began shouting his own praises.
“I am the greatest! I shook up the world! I shook up the world!”
He shook up the world with his life, and then again with his death. Millions from around the world, including friends of Ali, took to social media to share their condolences and memories of the icon.
RIP @muhammadali, a legend who transcended sport and was a true champion for all. #thegreatest #MuhammadAli pic.twitter.com/vjmXlXaHip
— Oscar De La Hoya (@OscarDeLaHoya) June 4, 2016
Until Ali no one said "I'm beautiful" he was royalty, yet common man was his pal. That is beauty. Greatest kind pic.twitter.com/uX7htKHrGc
— George Foreman (@GeorgeForeman) June 4, 2016
God came for his champion. So long great one. @MuhammadAli #TheGreatest #RIP pic.twitter.com/jhXyqOuabi
— Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) June 4, 2016
Ali will be buried in his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. The town has begun paying tribute to the legend with residents flocking to the Muhammad Ali Center to leave flowers and notes of condolence.
The world is mourning the loss of a legend. Ali changed the world with his passion, his words, and his skill in the ring. We at CelebMix offer our deepest condolences to Ali’s family and wish them peace during this difficult time.
Rest well, legend.
