Former world champion Chris Eubank has paid tribute to "inspirational" Muhammad Ali after the legendary boxer's death at the age of 74.

Ali competed in some of the greatest fights in the sport's history, winning the world heavyweight title on three occasions to become an iconic figure across the globe.

Many past and present boxing stars have weighed in with tributes since his passing was confirmed by his family on Saturday morning, with Eubank hailing Ali's achievements both inside and outside the ring.

"He said he was the greatest and he proved he was. Everyone was talking against him but he smiled and stayed positive - that was so inspirational to me," he told Sky Sports News. "But while it takes courage to fight another man, it takes real courage and fortitude to stand up against a government and inspire people.

"These milestones are what make people want to do more, to be better. I always had it in my mind about his flair. That vibrancy and that electricity inspired me. I wanted to be the maverick that he was. I effectively stood on the shoulders of a giant to make a little bit of noise myself.

"I'm a by-product of Muhammad Ali. The Rumble in the Jungle was a feat which could not be believed. He beat George Foreman, a monster, with his craft and his ringmanship. It was just brilliant."

Ali, who retired from boxing in 1981, had suffered from Parkinson's disease since 1984.