Muhammad Ali (left) and Manny Pacquiao. AFP FILE PHOTOS
Muhammad Ali’s contributions transcended boxing and his greatness won’t be appropriately defined alone by his heavyweight titles and the epic battles he had won inside the ring.
Ali, 74, passed away Saturday (Manila time) after a long struggle with Parkinson’s disease and as the tragic news of his death broke, heartfelt tributes to the greatest poured.
READ: Boxing world mourns death of legendary Muhammad Ali
Retired Filipino boxing champion Manny Pacquiao was one of those who immediately voiced out his prayers to the three-time heavyweight champion and his family.
“We lost a giant today. Boxing benefited from Muhammad Ali’s talents but not nearly as much as mankind benefited from his humanity,” Pacquiao said in a statement.
“Our hearts and prayers go out to the Ali family. May God bless them.”
READ: Muhammad Ali dies at 74
Pacquiao, who was elected senator in May a month after he announced his retirement, had Ali’s support during the biggest fight of his career when he fought former pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather Jr. last year.
Ali had classic duels in the ring, including a third fight with his longtime rival Joe Frazier held here in October of 1975, known as the “Thrilla in Manila.” Ali won by technical knockout in the 14th round.
A banner remembering that historical bout can be seen in the Araneta Coliseum rafters.