4 June 2016The Muslim Council of Britain today adds its tribute to Muhammad Ali, who passed away last night. He was the greatest boxer of all time, and as a Muslim, a role model to us all.
Leading the tributes on behalf of MCB, Secretary General Dr Shuja Shafi said: “Muhammad Ali was not just a great boxer but a great human being. He inspired people around the world. His struggle to stand up for what was right and speak truth to power, even when unpopular, typified his courage not only inside the ring but also outside. That quality led him to be lauded wherever he visited around the world, particularly in the Muslim world.
The love for Muhammed Ali here was so widespread that he was voted the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Century, winning more votes than all the other nominees combined; he too had a special place in his heart for the UK.
Muhammad Ali was famous for his ready wit, and I remember particularly two memorable quotes amongst many. He once said: ‘Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.’ And commenting on his long-term illness, he said ‘God gave me this illness to remind me that I’m not number one, He is’.”
British Muslims will join other Muslims around the world in remembering Muhammad Ali as an outstanding ambassador for Islam, he will be missed by us all.”
Indeed we are all from God and to Him we will all return.
ENDS