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Wade praises Ali: 'He made me believe I could become him'

Dwyane Wade/Instagram

The death of boxing legend and former heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali has brought the sporting world, and the world as a whole, almost to a standstill.

Ali passed away Friday at the age of 74, and since then, countless eulogies have poured in from individuals who were fortunate enough to brush shoulders with "The Greatest."

Miami Heat All-Star Dwyane Wade expressed his thoughts about Ali, the impact he had on his life, and his overall legacy in a post on Instagram:

A photo posted by dwyanewade (@dwyanewade) on

Muhammad Ali and I share the same birthday and that alone made me feel I had purpose. Yes, he was a great boxer, the greatest of all but as a courageous humanitarian, that is where his brilliance spoke loudest to me. He made me believe I could become HIM. I could be my own man, use my own voice, stand up for my beliefs AND be respected for what I do on my battle field which is the court.
He was strong, proud and vocal ... a black man who lead by words and action. Misunderstood and unappreciated for most of his life. Thanks for standing for all but especially your own. It was always my honor to be in his presence and I am a better man for it. #RIPALI

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