Ali improving from case of pneumonia—spokesman

In this Monday, Dec. 3, 2012, file photo, the former heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali, center, is crowned “King of Boxing” while accompanied by his wife, Lonnie, right, and Argentine boxer Sergio Martinez during the 50th convention of the World Boxing Council in Cancun, Mexico. AP

LOUISVILLE, Kentucky— A spokesman for boxing great Muhammad Ali says the former heavyweight champion’s condition has “vastly improved” since he was admitted to a hospital with a mild case of pneumonia during the weekend.

Ali spokesman Bob Gunnell said Monday that Ali’s doctors hope to discharge him soon from the hospital where he was admitted on Saturday.

Gunnell has declined to say where the 72-year-old Ali is hospitalized. He has indicated that Ali’s bout of pneumonia was caught quickly.

Ali’s relatives say they appreciate all the prayers and well wishes for the three-time world heavyweight champion.

Gunnell says no other details are being released because of the Ali family’s request for privacy.

Ali has battled Parkinson’s disease for years.

Ali and his wife, Lonnie, have homes in Arizona, Michigan and in Louisville.

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