Rahaman Ali died on Friday the age of 82 in Louisville, Kentucky, the Muhammed Ali Center have confirmed today.
The younger sibling of boxing icon Muhammad Ali spent his final days in hospice care in his native city.
Born Rudolph Arnett Clay on 18th July 1943, he later adopted the name Rahaman after embracing Islam.
He pursued a professional boxing career between 1964 and 1972, competing as a heavyweight.
Rahaman Ali has died at the age of 82 | Getty
His record showed considerable success with 14 victories, three defeats and one draw. Despite his achievements in the ring, Rahaman chose to retire from competitive boxing to dedicate himself to supporting his famous brother's career.
The Muhammad Ali Center confirmed his passing on Saturday, though no specific cause of death was disclosed.
Throughout his brother's illustrious career, Rahaman served as a devoted training partner, sparring with Muhammad across the globe.
The Muhammad Ali Center described him as Muhammad's "lifetime companion", highlighting the depth of their professional and personal bond.
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Muhammad Ali (centre) with his brother Rahaman Ali (left) and wife Lonnie Ali (right) during the dedication of the Muhammad Ali Center | GettyFollowing his retirement from boxing, Rahaman channelled his experiences into writing. In 2014, he published his memoir "That's Muhammad Ali's Brother! My Life on the Undercard", offering unique insights into their relationship.
Five years later, he collaborated with journalist H. Ron Brashear on "My Brother, Muhammad Ali The Definitive Biography", providing an intimate portrait of the heavyweight champion.
DeVone Holt, president and CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center, emphasised Rahaman's significance: "You can't tell Muhammad's story without mentioning Rahaman.
"He was one of the most constant sources of support for Muhammad during his career and their relationship was a true example of what it means to be 'my brother's keeper.'"
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Muhammad's daughter Hana shared an emotional tribute to her uncle, whom she affectionately called "Rock".
She wrote: "My Uncle, lovingly known as Rock, was a sweet, gentle soul with a heart as big as the world. He had that same sparkle in his eye that my father had that same light, that same mischief, that same love."
She recalled their extraordinary childhood bond, noting how Muhammad would shield his younger brother from parental discipline.
"I can just picture them now, reunited in heaven playing Cowboys and Indians with the broomsticks they used to find in Mama Bird and Papa Cash's closet. Daddy always insisted on being the Cowboy, and Rock the Indian," she reflected.
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Rahaman Ali (left) followed brother Muhammad Ali thrughout his legendary boxing career
|Getty
Following Muhammad's death in 2016, Rahaman devoted himself to preserving his brother's legacy through the Muhammad Ali Center.
He regularly attended events to meet fans and spoke with young people in the community about his experiences.
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg paid tribute, describing Rahaman as "a generous, thoughtful, and kind man".
Ray Barker, speaking to local media, noted how both brothers "poured their hearts and soul into the community of Louisville".
Barker characterised Rahaman's approach: "He liked to be behind, but he always showed up to lend his hand and lend his famous name to encourage the youth. He was like a quiet thunder."