Muhammad Ali: Peers, Fans, Friends React To Passing Of Boxing Legend

With the news that legendary boxer, philanthropist and civil rights icon Muhammad Ali died today at 74, celebrities, peers, fans and those who knew and worked with him are mourning the man universally acknowledged as “The Greatest”.


Among them is George Foreman, Ali’s adversary in the “Rumble in the Jungle” bout in Zaire and later friend, who mourned the champ as part of himself, saying that “the greatest piece” of him had slipped away.

The mayor of Ali’s hometown Louisville, Kentucky was among the first to pay his respects on social media, announcing that tomorrow the city will fly flags at half mast in tribute to the icon. “Thank you, Muhammad,” he said, “for all you’ve given to your city, your country, and the world.”

Kentucky Congressman John Yarmuth offered his own tribute, calling Ali “a champion for peace, a champion for justice, and a champion for equality.”

“He was a man who gained fame in a violent game, but immortality as a gentle and caring soul. In the ring, there was no one better, but his contributions to humanity managed to eclipse his boxing prowess… I am just one of the many in Louisville whose heart aches for the loss of my friend, and yet, every corner of our community is better for his impact. At a time when fame so often comes with questionable character, Muhammad Ali is an ever present reminder that the most famous person in the world can be a real life hero. He really was the greatest.”