"The Greatest of All Time," Muhammad Ali, turned 70-years-old today and we would be remiss not to make sure to mention him in this space. He was, after all, one of the greatest boxers who ever lived but he was also likely the most famous non-pro wrestler to admit to the fact that most of the skills he acquired on the microphone came from watching pro wrestling and, more specifically, Gorgeous George.
The influence was obvious and served to make Ali one of the biggest stars of his era.
His participation in the very first WrestleMania as a guest referee for the main event between Hulk Hogan and Mr. T vs. Roddy Piper and Paul Orndorff helped make that event such a smashing success. His connection to the pro wrestling world will always exist but his accomplishments as a pugilist are unmatched.
So we would just like to say happy birthday to Muhammad Ali.