A NUMBER of Thurrock boxers have paid tribute to three times World Heavyweight Champion Muhammad Ali, who died on Friday aged 74.
Horndon-based John McDermott was English Heavyweight champion until he retired a few years ago.
Speaking to YT, John said: "What a boxer and what a man. I would firstly like to pay tribute to the man’s sheer ability to box. His leg speed and the way he fought put him so far ahead in the first part of his career.
In the seventies, he had to use his head more. That is why the Rumble in the Jungle against George Foreman in 1974 is one of my favourites.
"He put heavyweight boxing on the map and made you proud to say that you were a heavyweight boxer
"I do not think we will see the likes of Ali again."
Up and coming Grays boxer Jack Healy also reflected on the great boxer’s legacy.
Jack said: "Ali was an inspiration to ALL not just boxers. In my eyes one of the greatest human beings to walk the earth and most definitely the greatest sportsmen lever."
