Muhammad Ali, RIP

 

 

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Muhammad Ali and Baseball Photo Gallery
Click on any image below to start Photo Gallery:

Muhammad Ali, RIP

“Champions aren’t make in gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them – a drive, a dream, a vision. They have to have the skill and the will. But the will must be stronger than the skill” -Muhammad Ali

We’re all saddened today to hear of the passing of Muhammad Ali, a true champion — and not just in the boxing ring.

Muhammad Ali had many connections to the game of baseball. In addition to his personal relationship with many ball players from the past, including Hank Aaron and Jackie Robinson, he also served as an inspiration to many of the current generation of players. Many chose him as their role model. In addition, some of his most memorable bouts were fought in baseball stadiums, including going undefeated in four title fights at the Astrodome, the former home of the Astros. As my partner Ron mentioned in his post earlier today, he also defeated Ken Norton at Yankee Stadium. In a fitting connection to baseball, the news of his passing was broken by legendary broadcaster Vin Scully during the Dodgers-Braves telecast.

Many baseball players — past and present — paid tribute to him today on Twitter. I’ve collected a few notable ones here:

 “We’ve lost a giant in Muhammad Ali. He did things his own way and I am so appreciative to have known him for so long. God rest his soul.” – Hall-of-Famer Hank Aaron

“He just brought that swag, not just to boxing but to all sports. He was smart, man. The way he talked, the way he carried himself, he was cocky, but in a cool way. Everybody enjoyed his presence. I think he was a lot of people’s hero, and he’s definitely going to be missed.” -Padres Matt Kemp

“The best there ever was and ever will be! Rest easy, Champ” –Nationals Bryce Harper 

“He pioneered sports, kind of set the mark for boxing. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to see his boxing matches, but he was a thrill to watch. He means a lot to the sports world and is a big, big loss.” Padres’ Melvin Upton, Jr.

“We lost not only the greatest boxer of all time but one of the greatest athletes and human beings ever. Thank you for everything you gave us champ!” – Astros Carlos Gomez

“Forever a champion. #RIPAli” – Pirates Andrew McCutchen.

“RIP Muhammad Ali. An inspiration for all!” – Justin Verlander

“Rest in peace to the greatest of all time. ‘Float like a butterfly sting like a bee.’ Wish I got to see you fight live. A true champion and the greatest ever. May u rest in peace.” –Rangers Derek Holland

I was hoping to find some connections to baseball and I was rewarded with the great photo below of Ali and Hank Aaron, two of the best athletes of the 20^th century. In addition, I also put together a photo tribute with has a few more surprises and showing his connections to baseball. Click on the link to see it:

-Gary Livacari

Photo Credits: All from Google Search

Information: Edited from article today on MLB.com: http://m.mlb.com/news/article/182056854/baseball-mourns-death-of-boxer-muhammad-ali

Subscribe to my blog for automatic updates and Free Bonus Reports: “Memorable World Series Moments” and “Gary’s Handy Dandy World Series Reference Guide.”