Muhammad Ali, perhaps world's greatest ever sporting legend, passed away on Friday, aged 74. Ali had spent previous few days in hospital in Phoenix, Arizona with breathing problems. His children flew to Phoenix to join their father for his final days. Ali is thought to be best boxer in history. He was world heavyweight champion three times. He is widely known by his nickname – The Greatest. However, many people believe he was greatest because of what he did outside boxing ring, not inside it. He was civil rights hero and strong opponent of Vietnam War in 1960s. He was ambassador for world peace and worked tirelessly for charities for five decades after.
World leaders, sporting figures and celebrities have been paying tribute to Ali. Boxing promoter Bob Arum said: "Ali transformed this country and impacted world with his spirit. His legacy will be part of our history for all time." U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon praised Ali for changing world. He said Ali used his charm, wit and grace to fight for better world, "and used his platform to lift up humanity". The daughter of Martin Luther King wrote: "You were champion in so many ways." Ali once said: "I would like to be remembered as man who won the heavyweight title three times, who was humorous and who treated everyone right… As man…who tried to unite all humankind through faith and love."
