BREAKING: Muhammad Ali has died at age 74

June 3rd, 2016
By Elijah Solidum
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Update: 11:22 PM CDT

A family spokesman has confirmed that boxing great Muhammad Ali has died at age 74 at a Phoenix hospital. The legendary athlete, known to many as "The Greatest," lived a historic life full of incredible achievements and courageous activism. Ali was an expert showman, as skillful at speaking and inspiring crowds as he was in the boxing ring.

​A three decade-long battle with Parkinson's and deteriorating health kept Ali out of public spotlight in his later years, but Ali never failed to make sure his voice was heard when it was needed. Actively speaking out and fighting against racism and Islamophobia and using his influence to bring about change, Ali was just as active outside of the ring as he was inside of it. A funeral service is being planned for Ali in his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. Rest in peace to The Greatest.


Update: 8:04 PM CDT
Sources close to the boxer's family say that Muhammad Ali, one of the greatest athletes of all time, is on his deathbed. Ali has suffered from Parkinson's for three decades, and earlier this week was suffering from a respiratory ailment that sent him to the hospital.

Bob Gunnell, the spokesman for the family, has said that Ali is in fair condition. However, other sources have stated that Ali is in rapidly failing health and might be fighting his last fight. The unnamed source, who has spoken to Ali's wife, has said that it was a matter of hours before Ali may be taking his last breaths. Ali is currently in a Phoenix-area hospital.

Muhammad Ali, one of the most recognizable figures in all of sports, has kept a low profile in recent years. Dubbed "The Greatest" by sports fans, Ali fought in 56 fights, winning 37 by knockout and only losing 5 times. He was diagnosed with Parkinson's shortly after fighting his final fight in the ring in 1981. Despite suffering from the disease, he was able to light the Olympic torch in 1996, and made another Olympic appearance in London 2012. He was wheelchair-bound, looking weak and frail.

Ali is currently 74 years old. Beyond being a spectacular athlete, Muhammad Ali was a revolutionary figure. He has inspired millions of people throughout the decades, stood up to every challenge he faced, and has had more than his fair share of incredible successes. The Greatest, we are all rooting for you.

Source: Reuters