As Muhammad Ali leaves ring for last time, the Internet bows its head

The death of Muhammad Ali, boxing's poet laureate, prompted a blanket of elegies on the Internet on Saturday, as everyone from fellow fighters to heads of state took to social media in celebration and remembrance of the fighter's life.

Ali -- whose uncompromising moral stances, brash and stylish way with words, and three heavyweight championships made him one of the most recognized figures of the late 20th century -- died Friday at 74. He'd suffered from Parkinson's disease.

Social media was covered with quotes by Ali, along with photos and clips, all of which served as an impressive reminder of the athlete's accomplishments and his stature as a cultural icon. And of course people posted their own words of tribute. Hashtags trending on Twitter included #TheGreatest, #RIPMuhammadAli and #RumbleInTheJungle.

The sporting community stepped up in a big way, with posts from famous foes, younger fighters inspired by the champ, Olympian peers, and fellow sports legends.

But Ali was, of course, far more than an athlete. His larger-than-life personality and his agile tongue made him a global media darling, and his insistence on civil rights and his refusal to fight in the Vietnam War made him a political focal point during the '60s era. World leaders were quick to note his death, as were fellow celebrities.