Muhammad Ali Passes Away At The Age Of 74, WWE Issues Statement
A sad day for sports and entertainment, as boxing legend Muhammad Ali has passed away at the age of 74.
Ali was hospitalized this week and his conditioned worsened, with reports emerging Thursday that the former Heavyweight Champion was in 'grave condition.'
Ali, born Cassius Clay, had a history in professional wrestling as well. Clearly inspired by the entertainment aspects of wrestling, he had a segment with WWE Hall of Famer Gorilla Monsoon in which saw him fall victim to an airplane spin. Ali was also a guest referee during WrestleMania I for the main event.
Ali also participated in an infamous boxer vs. wrestler bout against Japanese legend Antonio Inoki. The unique rule set underwhelmed fans, but was an early precursor to mixed martial arts. Ali would suffer two blood clots and an infection in his legs due to Inoki's kicks.
WWE issued a statement, saying "WWE is saddened to learn that two-time world heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali passed away at age 74 on June 3, 2016."
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