Muhammad Ali passed away on June 3, 2016. Ali sported a 56-5 record during his professional boxing career. He fought in the heavyweight division and was known by himself and others as "the greatest." With notable wins over George Foreman and Joe Frazier, Ali was known for being the biggest draw in the sport of boxing.
Born Cassius Clay, Ali grew up in Louisville, the same location that Ali's funeral service was held. At the service, many gathered to share stories of Ali's greatness as a humanitarian and as a fighter: as a boxer and a fighter against Parkinson's disease. During his funeral service, many notable people—such as Billy Crystal, Bill Clinton, and Lonnie Ali—told stories of Ali's life and character.
"He was the most perfect athlete you ever saw, and those were his own words," said Crystal, who spoke about his lifetime friendship with Muhammad Ali. Whether you agree with what Ali fought for, his passion and commitment to his beliefs were unmatched.
Crystal performed his Cosell and Ali impersonation. When he did his first impersonation in front of Ali, Crystal was met with "You're my little brother" from Ali. From that day forth, Crystal was called little brother by Ali, as they supported each other in their humanitarian efforts.
Ali inspired the greats that came behind him, such as Mike Tyson and Floyd "Money" Mayweather. Using his rope-a-dope technique, Ali would endure a beating from his opponent, waiting for the precise moment to strike. When his opponent would become tired, Ali would strike.
This strategy, although effective, took its toll on Ali. Taking such beatings led to traumatic effects on the superstar's life. Many link his Parkinson's disease to this strategy, as taking that amount of punishment cannot be good for the body.
Crystal spoke of Ali inviting him to run with him one day. Ali was planning on running on a golf course located at a country club. Crystal was forced to decline his friend's invitation, as the country club did not accept Jewish people. Ali never ran at the country club again. That's the kind of man Muhammad Ali was—he was a man dedicated to his cause and inclusive of all races and religions. And that's how we should remember him.
