Thursday 9 June 2016 19:47, UK
David Haye has vowed to continue his campaign to grant Muhammad Ali an Honorary Knighthood in the wake of the heavyweight great's death.
Ali died last Friday at the age of 74, four months after two-weight champion Haye opened a petition on change.org to mark Ali's contribution to boxing in Great Britain.
The petition attracted more than 25,000 votes in favour, and Haye is determined to at least have the subject discussed at the highest of levels in Government - the original petition was backed by celebrities and politicians, but was only acknowledged by Downing Street.
The granting of a Posthumous Knighthood would require a change in legislation, with previous petitions having called for World Cup-winning England captain Bobby Moore to be honoured - he was not knighted before his death from cancer in 1993.
Speaking on the eve of Ali's funeral in Louisville, Haye said: "This week we lost a legend, a true global icon - phrases I don't use lightly. Muhammad Ali transcended the world of boxing, inspiring so many, including me, to believe 'Impossible is Nothing.'
"Like millions of others around the world, Muhammad Ali is a hero of mine and inspired me to box. Added to this his humanitarian work over many years which had a huge impact across the world, I couldn't think of a more fitting person to be granted an Honorary Knighthood.
"The current laws do not allow for a posthumous Knighthood, but Ali throughout his career challenged what was deemed possible so it's quite fitting that current rules should be reviewed for 'The Greatest of all time.'
"Although Muhammad was not well enough to travel to the UK as planned earlier this year, I met with his wife Lonnie who said what an honour the award, from a country he so loved, would mean to him. With such huge public demand and support from his family I truly hope we can make this happen.
"I believe Muhammad Ali is the perfect recipient. Whilst it is a huge shame this did not happen when he was alive, to award it posthumously in honour of the incredible legacy he leaves would be perfectly fitting."
