Pele is the latest sporting personality to pay tribute to Muhammad Ali, following the boxing legend's passing, last night.
The pair became close friends during the Brazilian's time with the New York Cosmos in the 1970's, when the duo were arguably the two most popular sportsmen on the planet. When asked about Ali last year, the three time World Cup winner said, "He was a completely different character - more fun, making jokes all the time. We used to get together for dinner and he would tease me, saying he was more famous than me."
Now, in the hours after the former three time World Heavyweight Champion's death, his friend has once again made a moving testimony to the Greatest Of All Time, via his official Instagram account:
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"The sporting universe has just suffered a big loss. Muhammad Ali was my friend, my idol, my hero.
"We spent many moments together and always kept a good connection throughout the years. The sadness is overwhelming. I wish him peace with God. And I send love and strength to his family."
Ali passed away at the age of 74 after a 32 year battle with Parkinson's Disease.
(H/T Goal.com)
Topics: Football, Boxing, muhammad ali, Pele