Muhammad Ali has died aged 74, a family spokesperson has confirmed.
The one-time world heavyweight boxing champ – probably the most famous sportsperson the world has ever known – passed away at a hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, after being admitted on Thursday. He had been suffering from a respiratory problem, an illness complicated by his Parkinson’s disease, and was on life support for the past 24 hours.
The sad news has produced an enormous outpouring of reaction and tributes from leading figures across all fields. His former opponent George Foreman led the way:
Ralph Ali, Frazier & Foreman we were 1 guy. A part of me slipped away, "The greatest piece" https://t.co/xVKOc9qtub
— George Foreman (@GeorgeForeman) June 4, 2016
It's been said it was Rope a dope, Ali beat me with no his beauty that beat me. Most beauty I've know loved him pic.twitter.com/G64WX3eyZC
— George Foreman (@GeorgeForeman) 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
Rest In Peace Muhammad Ali. Inspiration in and out of the ring. Loved his character/personality #peopleschamp #goat pic.twitter.com/aYWacyxwKN
— jarryd hayne (@JarrydHayne) June 4, 2016
Muhammad Ali represents and symbolises greatness for all the world over. His name and story will live on forever. RIP!
— Cathy Freeman (@CathyFreeman) June 4, 2016
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
https://twitter.com/ShaunKing/status/738809830521982976
Muhammad Ali, born Cassius Clay, born 17 January 1942; died 3 June 2016
