Parks pays tribute to Muhammad Ali: He served his purpose on earth

MANILA, Philippines – The entire world received sad news on Saturday, June 4, when it was officially announced that 3-time heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali had passed away after spending two days at a hospital near his home in Phoenix, Arizona.

Ali, who had been battling Parkinson’s disease since 1984, was 74. Aside from being considered by many as the greatest boxer of the sport, he’s also lauded for his activities outside the ring.

Although 23-year-old Gilas pool forward Ray Parks was unable to witness the limelight of Ali’s prime, he, like many others, was saddened by the departure of one of the world’s most influential people.

“He served his purpose here on earth,” Parks told Rappler following Gilas practice on Sunday at the Meralco Gym, “and we are all blessed to be witnesses of the life he lived and everything he contributed not only just to the United States but to all over the world.”

Ali, who announced his conversion to Islam after winning the heavyweight title in 1964, was also known for his candor about civil rights, helping the advancement of gender equality in society today.

“He opened doors for a lot of athletes – not just boxing, but also athletes of all nature,” Parks said. “For him just to be that role model and to pursue that career that he chose, it really opened all the doors for everybody.”

Ali was also well known for his rivalry with Joe Frazier, whom he faced in 3 thrilling bouts. The final instalment of the trilogy took place in Manila, famously labelled as the “Thrilla in Manila.”

“It’s just a blessing that he was able to do what he did and the impact that he had was able to influence the world,” Parks added. “He opened people’s eyes to it’s not about race; it’s about the love of the sport, it’s about the love of the game.

“Muhammad Ali’s passing is truly sad,” added the Filipino-American athlete, a former UAAP MVP. “I woke up [yesterday] and I was like, ‘That’s crazy.’ One of the greatest is just gone, and it’s crazy it’s the same year as we lost Prince.” – Rappler.com