Muhammad Ali, the man considered by most boxing experts to be the greatest heavyweight in boxing history and among the greatest pound-for-pound boxers to ever live, died Friday at the age 74. A family spokesperson confirmed his death.
“The Greatest” had been taken to a hospital in Phoenix on Thursday for a respiratory issue and was initially reported to be in fair condition. Two family sources told the Associated Press on Friday afternoon that his condition had worsened and that the former three-time heavyweight champion was “barely breathing.” As Ali’s status became grave into the night, the reality of his imminent passing shook the boxing world to its foundation.