Stevie Wonder Helps Muhammad Ali Celebrate 70th Birthday

Veteran American boxer Muhammad Ali's 70<sup>th birthday party was a month late (Ali was born on Jan. 17, 1942) but celebrated in style at the MGM Hotel in Las Vegas. The celebrations were led by Stevie Wonder, the singer - songwriter.

Approximately 2,000 people, including actors, singers, athletes and former opponents gathered at the bash and Ali was flooded with birthday wishes from across the world.

"Happy birthday, champ. As a fighter, you were something spectacular. You shocked the world, and you inspired it, too. And even after all the titles and legendary bouts, you're still doing it," said the U.S. President, Barack Obama, in a birthday message to Ali via a video link.

"Good evening, the man we celebrate tonight is a giant. Muhammad Ali has shown us one man can make a difference. His example of love, character, dignity, makes us want to be better. Muhammad Ali, you inspire me," Sky News quoted British football player David Beckham as saying.

The event had a charitable turn to it. The $1,500 per plate gala event donated its proceeds to the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, in Ali's hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. Ali is currently suffering from Parkinson's Disease.