Muhammad Ali marks 40th anniversary of epic 'Thrilla In Manila' fight

Louisville (Kentucky): Legendary boxer Muhammad Ali celebrated the 40th anniversary of his third fight with Joe Frazier in the Philippines in his Kentucky hometown in the United States.

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Notable erstwhile opponents Larry Holmes and George Foreman and other celebrities including former NBA star Shaquille O'Neal were present on Thursday to honour the three-time world heavyweight champion, Xinhua reported.

(Left to right) Larry Holmes, Muhammad Ali, and George Foreman attends the Sports Illustrated Tribute to Muhammad Ali at The Muhammad Ali Center on October 1, 2015 in Louisville, Kentucky. Pic/AFP

Ali's fight with Frazier was a 14-round battle known as the "Thrilla in Manila". Ali earned his second victory over Frazier when the former champion didn't come out for the final round, and that fight is considered one of the greatest events in boxing and sports.

Ali, 73, is battling Parkinson's disease. He did not speak during the ceremony.