Muhammad Ali, the legendary American boxer, was a cultural icon. Renowned for his charisma, speed, and agility, Ali became a three-time world heavyweight champion. Beyond the ring, he made an indelible mark with his powerful social and political stance during the civil rights movement and the Vietnam War as well.

Fans can never forget the boxing icon. He holds just as much value today as he did in his prime boxing days. Such is the influence of Ali. In a resurfaced picture of Ali celebrating his 50th birthday, which appeared online, fans showed their love and respect for the star.

Muhammad Ali in his 50s

The legend retired at the age of 39 in 1981. Muhammad Ali grappled with Parkinson’s disease throughout his post-boxing years. While noticeable changes in speed and speech emerged in the late 1970s, the official diagnosis came in 1984 at age 42, three years after his retirement. Speculation suggests a connection between his boxing career and the onset of Parkinson’s symptoms, evident in his slurred speech and trembling hands after a significant bout at age 38. Even at 50, Ali refused to accept that aging was a thought for concern.

In his 50’s the disease had already started to show its grip on the late champ. He would sporadically go off to sleep, struggling with issues of the night. However, all these issues didn’t lessen his intense energy. Ali lost weight and gained muscle while maintaining a youthful appearance and strength through exercise.

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Still, Ali was not one to be pitied. One forgot about his illness quickly while they were around him. As evident from the image posted online to an Instagram dedicated to him, his cheeky and boyish smile is more than evident as he holds up a birthday cake.

Fans remember Muhammad Ali through his 50th birthday portrait

The post on the Instagram account was captioned, “Portrait of Muhammad Ali with a 50th birthday cake during a photoshoot in December 1991.” Neil Leifer, who had photographed Ali on multiple occasions, took the picture which showed Ali holding a cake on his 50th birthday. Fans could not help but pour out their admiration for the champion after seeing the old picture.

“He will always be alive,” said one fan remembering the legacy of the boxer.

“And he STILL the greatest,” said another fan, reiterating what was written on the birthday cake.

“May allah grant him the jannah,” said one fan praying for the champ to receive his rightful place in heaven.

“Always the greatest,” declared a user, highlighting Ali’s status cemented at the top as the best of the best.

“The world misses you men,” lamented one fan, capturing the essence of his inimitable role in all the lives he touched.

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Though boxing started unexpectedly in Ali’s life, it took him to the greatest heights. Seeing a 50-year-old Ali celebrating his birthday just like he would if he was any younger is bound to make any boxing fan emotional. More so now that the world lacks his philanthropic heart and boxing prowess.

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