LOUISVILLE, Ky. — All week we've been taking a trip down memory lane, as local groups and organizations are paying tribute to the greatest of all time, Muhammad Ali.
It was just over forty years ago when Muhammad Ali was preparing for what was soon to be, one of the most important matches of his life. The moment in history he would be the heavy weight champion.
At the same time WHAS11's then sports Director, Dave Conrad, took a trip to Pennsylvania to see the legend in action and today those memories are just as crystal clear.
Sitting down with Dave, felt like witnessing a piece of history first hand, because the friendship they formed over the years went beyond the job description.
He even told us he was invited to Ali's wedding under one condition; no camera was allowed.
He was a man unlike any other, a one-of-a-kind talent, and even though he referred to himself as the greatest of all time, Dave says he still managed to stay humble, and would be today if he knew the legacy he left behind.
This wonderful relationship filled with many stories, all started at that training camp in Pennsylvania when he met Ali in person, for the first time.
"I was awe struck, most people were when they met him. He was so charismatic, and it was one of those things where 'am I really here seeing this," Dave said.
That was just the beginning.
Dave says he didn't realize he was watching history being made that day and over the years his appreciation for that time has only grown.
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