When it comes to possessing a great outlook on life and sports, Muhammed Ali was an inspiration to the world. He was undoubtedly the best, and he proved it over and over again. In or out of the ring, he was an artist. He was a terror to his opponents whose famous poetic words were so gentle, touching countless lives of athletes everywhere. He showed us the balance between being a butterfly and a bee. He will forever remain an inspiration to sports fans and the general public alike for having such a way with words.

He was a fighter, but not just in the sports world. He battled, but always passed along wisdom, and for that we are grateful. He went valiantly in the direction of his goals, and he didn't stop for anything. Nothing got in his way. He was vocal about his opinions and stayed true to himself which is something we can all take away from his legacy. He gave the world the tools through words that they needed to teach the youth and continue persevering through whatever life through at them. He encouraged people to dodge the punches and to work for everything.

He was the true example of working, not wishing, for what you want. He was the epitome of excellence. Striving to be champion is the legacy he leaves. It is a constant reminder that you can do whatever you want to, regardless of any adversity that may try to slow you down.

He taught us to believe in ourselves while working day in and day out to get to be where you want. Challenges were nothing that he couldn't overcome. He did not sugar coat things often. He would speak his mind regularly, and passion came from his every word. The beauty of believing in your own dreams never really fades away when you do everything in your power to accomplish what you want and make those dreams reality.

He taught us that an imperative part of being a champion was that work ethic had to match the plans of dreams. Champions are the best at what they do for a reason.

Even those of us who are too young to have seen him fight in the ring will always be able to look back on his life and admire the legacy he left behind. Upon hearing of his passing, it is unbelievable how apparent it is that one man could reach out to such an enormous crowd in a short 74 years of life.

Thank you, Muhammed Ali, for inspiring athletes everywhere, regardless of the sport, to be the ultimate champion of their own battles. We will defend your legacy forever.

“Champions aren’t made in gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them – a desire, a dream, a vision.” - Muhammed Ali