Every top star in the sports business probably takes some inspiration from popular figures during their initial stages. It seems like a WWE legend has disclosed one of his supposed heroes through their inspiring story. That legendary name is none other than perhaps, the greatest boxer in history, Muhammad Ali.

There is no second thought that boxing has been synonymous with his name for years. But did you know that building that legacy came at the expense of Ali’s own well-being and health?

Who spoke about Muhammad Ali’s phase of going “through hell?”

During his ascend to the top, Ali was battling his own personal demons. Ali started facing health issues at the age of 30. The phase saw his weight drop down, slur in speech, and his hands shaking. It became evident that he suffered from Parkinson’s disease. Many people cited it to develop due to boxing. Moreover, some doctors even reported that head trauma could have also been a factor.

Despite his ailing health, Ali continued to get in the ring for the love of the sport, admiration of fans, and his need for money to provide for himself and his family. WWE legend Jake “The Snake” Roberts recently spoke about Ali’s will to fight again and again during the time he was going “through hell”. He also credited him the best ever for putting boxing on the map during the recent edition of his ‘The Snake Pit’ podcast.

Roberts said, “I was growing up when he was going through hell … you know going to gym, everything else … it’s amazing what he did …it boggles the mind … he lost probably the best years of his life … you know certainly for boxing anyway …still came back and did it … so what can you say about Ali except he’s the best ever … still is.”

READ MORE: ‘You Got 10 Minutes to Get Out of Town…’: Former Mayor Once Detailed Incident Where Boxing Legend Muhammad Ali Rendered Him Speechless

Ali was visibly not at 100%, as seen in many of his fights, but the fire inside continued to push him through and fight like a true warrior.

Has Ali ever encountered Jake Roberts who had massive praise for him?

The paths of Muhammad Ali and Jake “The Snake” Roberts once crossed during a wrestling event in 1985. Roberts was scheduled in Mid-South Wrestling against The Snowman. Ali came out in support of Jake’s opponent. Furthermore, he nailed both Jake Roberts and his associate, The Barbarian to help The Snowman secure the pinfall and the win.

Jake once spoke about the incident on his podcast. He also disclosed what Ali told him backstage during their interaction after the match.

He revealed, “I shook his hand and he pulled me in closely, ‘You’re a very smart young man. I’ll be gone tomorrow, you’ll be here next week. I understand. Very smart young man, you’re very smart.’ He respected what I did.”

Muhammad Ali was not only a Man of Steel on the outside, but inside as well. He fought even during his illness for the sport of boxing and millions of fans who watched. Are you too inspired by Muhammad Ali’s greatness like many others?

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