Multiple news outlets, including NBC News, are reporting that boxing legend Muhammad Ali passed away on Friday in a Phoenix, AZ area hospital. Ali had been in the hospital since June 2, being treated for respiratory complications.

Ali, who was born Cassius Marcellus Clay Junior in 1942, was an outspoken and successful figure in the sports world. Known as "The Greatest", he was a gold medalist in the 1960 Olympics and claimed the world heavyweight title three times through a career that spanned 61 total fights; with a record of 56-5 and 37 of those wins coming by KO.

Bugner Vs Ali
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Outside of the ring, Ali was an outspoken figure that was known for having a way with words that rivaled his skill in the ring. Along with producing famous quotes like "float like a butterfly, sting like a bee", the colorful fighter's outspokenness on a variety of social and political issues also earned Ali an international spotlight as an activist and social figure.

After Ali's death, a representative of the family shared that a funeral service for the late boxer will be held in his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky.

 

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