Ali
After the Spinks fight, Ali retired on June 26, 1979. He did fight Larry Holmes in 1980 and Trevor Berbick in 1981 but lost both fights. The fights were embarrassing; it was obvious that Ali should stop boxing.
After suffering increasingly slurred speech, shaking hands, and over-tiredness, Muhammad Ali was hospitalized in September 1984 to determine the cause. His doctors diagnosed Ali with Parkinson’s syndrome, a degenerative condition that results in decreased control over speech and motor skills.
After being out of the limelight for more than a decade, Muhammad Ali was asked to light the Olympic flame during the Opening Ceremonies of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia. Ali moved slowly and his hands shook; yet his performance brought tears to many who watched the Olympic lighting.
Since then, Ali has worked tirelessly to helping charities around the world. He also spends a lot of time signing autographs. He remains a hero and icon of the 20th century.
For similar stories, click on After sport’s career.
