Reports surrounding Muhammad Ali being sick are false, according to an Ali family spokesman.
Speaking with The Courier-Journal, Bob Gunnell confirmed that plans never called for the boxing legend to leave his home in Louisville to appear at the Hollywood premiere of the new “I Am Ali” documentary last week. In fact, Ali was and still is in Louisville.
“Muhammad is doing fine at this point,” Gunnell told the newspaper Monday. “His speaking style is lower in tone, and as the day goes on, he doesn’t speak as well as he does in the morning. But Muhammad’s a strong person for his age and for the disease he has.”
Showcasing another side of Ali is “I Am Ali.” The film, which features phone conversations and clips of the sports great speaking to his children, shines a light on Ali as a father, with an inside glimpse into his life provided by his family.
“He’s not at a point where we’re at all worried,” Gunnell said, regarding Ali’s overall health. “If Muhammad were having major health issues, we would issue something.”
Gunnell’s comments come after speculation of Ali’s health surfaced when his brother Rahman said the former heavyweight world champion was too sick to attend the premiere.
“I have not been able to talk to my brother about this because he is sick,” Rahman mentioned to Sunday People during the premiere. He doesn’t speak too well. But he is proud that we are here for him. He has given this film his blessing.”
Since Ali was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1984, the 72-year-old Louisville native’s health has been on a gradual decline.
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(Photo Source: AP)
