Muhammad Ali 8th Death Anniversary: Boxing’s Legendary Family Pays Emotional Tribute

Muhammad Ali‘s stature as the greatest boxer in history is widely acknowledged within the community. Although his era of dominance in the heavyweight division has long passed, his influence remains profound, touching the hearts of millions. As the 8th anniversary of his passing arrived, his family members, including Rasheda Ali, Nico Ali Walsh, Maryum Ali, gathered to commemorate the life of the man, the legend, the myth.

Muhammad Ali, back when he was still Cassius Clay, kicked off his boxing journey way back when he was just 12 years old. Picture this: he hits up a neighborhood gym in Louisville, Kentucky, and that’s where the magic begins. Fast forward to 1954, still just a tween, and he’s stepping into the ring for his first amateur fight. But wait, the real deal starts in 1960 at the Rome Olympics, where he nails a gold medal in the light heavyweight division. That’s when things get real. Ali goes pro and boom, he’s suddenly the talk of the town in the boxing scene. 

Muhammad Ali, a champion in the ring and out

The heavyweight icon, who ended up becoming a cultural icon, started struggling with health concerns in the later part of his life. Mere three years after his retirement from the sport, the once lively and jovial Ali was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Some even say he was suffering from the disease when he fought some of his last opponents. 

Over the years, the disease had taken its toll on the legendary boxer, as his mobility and ability to communicate took the brunt of the trauma. Yet he kept up a brave face whenever seen in public—he went as far as to raise funds for Parkinson’s research through the 2000s. But sadly, ‘The Greatest of All Time’ met his end because of sepsis in June 2016, a common fate for those who suffer from the debilitating disease.

Eight years after the incident, Ali’s eldest daughter, Maryum Ali, took to Instagram to share a few lines from the Quran. She wrote, “O Allah, forgive him, raise his rank among those who are guided, and take care of those he leaves behind him. Forgive us and him, O Lord of the worlds; expand his grave for him and illuminate it for him. Ameen”.

Even Rasheda Ali joined her sister as she shared a picture with her father on Instagram, as she wrote in the caption, “Eight years ago today, I lost my Buddy and Father. I miss you every day, but your legacy continues to inspire us.”

Not just her, Rasheda’s son and professional boxer Nico Ali Walsh took to social media to share a picture and video of the late legend to remember his contributions to the sport and the community. Nico wrote, “8 years ago today. Long Live the King”.

Not to forget Muhammad Ali’s official Instagram account, which was created in honor of the greatest boxer in history. On the day of Ali’s eight death anniversary, Ali’s official Instagram account wrote, “Today, we commemorate and pay tribute to the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of the legendary Muhammad Ali”.

Ali’s renown stems primarily from his prowess in the ring, yet his post-retirement life also significantly contributed to his enduring legacy as a figure to be remembered.

Ali’s life after boxing

Ali finally bid farewell to the ring in 1981, leaving behind a legacy no one could replicate or come close to, even though many argue the decision should have come sooner rather than later. Ali was out of the ring, but not out of action—he remained in the limelight like it belonged to him and followed him around.

He dove headfirst into humanitarian work, and guess what? He was good at that too! Using his immense popularity, the once dancing and trash talking boxer promoted peace and social justice among the masses. How did he do that? Well, he did what every great personality does—travel!

Yep, he traveled extensively, giving speeches all while supporting charitable causes wherever he could find them. That shouldn’t be hard to believe, but just in case! Ali played a key role in negotiating the release of 15 United States soldiers taken hostage in Iraq during 1990. He fearlessly vocalized his stance against injustices, including the plight of Palestinians in the Middle East, often criticizing US involvement in the region’s politics.

With an admirable life such as this, how could anyone not remember the person he was and the legend he became? While the world might not see the likes of Muhammad Ali ever again, his legacy has inspired thousands to pursue the sport everyone knows so well as the sweet science. Do you have a few words for the man Ali was and the impact he had on the world?