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Public funeral for Muhammad Ali on Friday

Posted at 10:34 PM, Jun 05, 2016
and last updated 2016-06-05 22:34:28-04
Muhammad Ali’s family has revealed that a public funeral will be held Friday to commemorate the world-famous boxing legend, who died last week of "septic shock due to unspecified natural causes.”
 
The funeral – held of Ali's home city of Louisville, Kentucky – will be open to “anyone that is there from the world to say goodbye,” his family said, according to BBC News.
 
Former president Bill Clinton is expected to deliver a eulogy, alongside comedian Billy Crystal and sports journalist Bryant Gumbel.
 
 
While the funeral will be interfaith, will be held in the Muslim tradition, said the family of the three-time world heavyweight champion, 74.
 
"Muhammad Ali was clearly the people's champion," family spokesman Bob Gunnell said, according to People Magazine. "And the celebration will reflect his devotion to people of all races, religions and backgrounds."
 
Beforehand, Ali's body will reportedly be taken in procession through the main streets of Louisville.
 
A private funeral for Ali – who died in Phoenix, Arizona – will take place Thursday. His body will be flown to Kentucky within the coming days.
 
Confirming Ali’s death on Friday, Gunnell said, "After a 32-year battle with Parkinson's disease, Muhammad Ali has passed away at the age of 74.”
 
He added, "The Ali family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers, and support and asks for privacy at this time."