The best of The Greatest: a tribute to Muhammad Ali

“I am the greatest, I said that even before I knew I was. I figured that if I said it enough, I would convince the world that I really was the greatest.”

Muhammad Ali, who has died aged 74, is perhaps the most iconic sports star of the 20th Century.

More than just a boxer, he was more than a sportsman; he seemed to transcend his profession through force of will and sheer charm. The world now says goodbye to The Greatest.

Read the BBC’s obituary

Rumble in the Jungle

Turning professional at 18 in 1960 after winning Olympic gold in Rome, he went on to win three heavyweight championships, including his defining fight, 1974’s Rumble In The Jungle in Zaire. The Mirror has more.

Civil rights

“Cassius Clay is a slave name. I didn’t choose it, and I didn’t want it. I am Muhammad Ali, a free name, and I insist people using it when speaking to me and of me.”

Away from the ring, his outspoken stance on civil rights — including his refusal to fight in the Vietnam war which cost his career dearly — endeared him to millions across the globe. The Nation looks back at his activism.

The Greatest in his own words

“I had a good time boxing…I enjoyed it. And I may come back.”

Perhaps the finest tribute to Ali comes from his own words. The Daily Telegraph have compiled some of his best quotes.

Ali’s life in pictures

The Guardian have compiled more than 50 photographs, including some lesser known images, chronicling the life of the legendary boxer.

Follow @updayUK on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Words: Tom McArthur

Top image credit: PA