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Muhammad Ali: Prince Charles Is 'The Greatest'

Muhammad Ali: Prince Charles Is 'The Greatest'

Muhammad Ali has said Prince Charles is "the greatest", as he welcomed the heir to the throne to his home city in Kentucky.

The 73-year-old boxing legend's tribute came in a letter read to the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall, as they visited Louisville on the last day of their US tour.

The three-time former world heavyweight boxing champion, recently treated for a bladder infection , was not well enough to personally greet the Royal tourists.

The couple were welcomed to the Kentucky Centre for African American Heritage on Friday by Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer.

He read Ali's letter: "(My wife) Lonnie and I welcome you to our hometown of Louisville, Kentucky, USA.

"We are honoured that you have come to explore, share and learn about new sustainable initiatives that are so close to your heart."

He added: "As you travel back to your homeland, we hope you know how much this city respects and admires the many contributions you have made in the world.

"We think you are the greatest."

The Royal couple were serenaded by a choir singing My Old Kentucky Home on their arrival earlier in the Bluegrass State.

Charles was shown how whiskey barrels are made in bourbon country.

The Prince's itinerary included a roundtable discussion on agriculture, a visit with environmental activists and a speech on health and the environment.

The Kentucky stop came after Charles and Camilla visited Washington DC .