Floyd Mayweather: Muhammad Ali Was ‘A Pioneer, A True Legend, And A Hero’

Floyd Mayweather is one of the greatest boxers of all time, but he knows his career probably wouldn’t have skyrocketed to its current fame without the work of Muhammad Ali.

Ali died Friday at age 74 after a 32-year battle with Parkinson’s disease.

“Words cannot explain what Muhammad Ali has done for the sport of boxing,” Mayweather told ESPN. He’s one of the guys who paved the way for me to be where I’m at today. We lost a legend, a hero and a great man.”

Mayweather also posted a message on Ali to his Instagram account.

View this post on Instagram

Today my heart goes out to a pioneer, a true legend, and a hero by all means! Not a day went by entering the gym that I didn't think of you. Your charisma, your charm and above all, your class are all of the elements that will be greatly missed by myself and the world. You are someone that inspired me greatly throughout my boxing journey and words cannot express how great you were as a person! Thank you for everything you've done for Black America, in the the world of sports & entertainmen and for the legacy you leave behind! My sincerest condolences to the Ali family!

A post shared by Floyd Mayweather (@floydmayweather) on Jun 4, 2016 at 12:00am PDT

Ali is considered by many as the greatest boxer of all time. He was an Olympic gold medalist, a heavyweight champion and owned a 56-5 career record with 37 knockouts.

Thumbnail photo via  John David Mercer/USA TODAY Sports Images