The Muhammad Ali Center for the Associated Press, 2012

It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Muhammad Ali Saturday morning. My love and condolences go out to his family, friends and the people who worked with him, along with the public at large. He was an international icon loved and respected by all, and Louisville will miss him the most. But his presence will last forever.

While I’ve never been introduced to Muhammad Ali or had my photo taken with him, I’ve been near him on many occasions on assignment for the AP or shooting the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards for the Ali Center. Many of my AP file photos from a 2012 assignment are being used now.

Rest in peace, Ali.