Muhammad Ali hospitalized with respiratory issue

Legendary boxer Muhammad Ali has been hospitalized with a respiratory issue, his representation said in a statement.

Legendary boxer Muhammad Ali has been hospitalized with a respiratory issue, his representation said in a statement.

Ali, 74, suffers from Parkinson’s disease. According to the statement, he is in fair condition, and expected to be released from the hospital soon.

“A brief hospital stay is expected,” family spokesman Bob Gunnell wrote. “At this time, the Muhammad Ali family respectfully requests privacy.”

The Associated Press reported Thursday night that Ali is hospitalized in Phoenix with a condition that “may be more serious than his previous hospital stays.” The respiratory issues are reportedly complicated by his Parkinson’s.

Ali is a three-time heavyweight champion. He retired from the sport in 1981, and has been hospitalized in each of the last three years with a urinary tract infection.