Muhammad Ali

It wasn't what you think, but it was certainly a story. I was lucky enough to meet him a few times over several decades, but the first time was the most memorable.

He was a great athlete and humanitarian. He was also a symbol of defiance for black men around the world.

A life that transected America's defining issues — race and religion; war and sports — also inspired writing that was nearly as captivating as the man himself.

The man considered the greatest boxer of all time inspired millions by standing up for his principles during the 1960s, and by always entertaining — in the boxing ring and in front of a microphone.