Watch Muhammad Ali have fun sparring with Sylvester Stallone at 1977 Oscars

Nick Birdsong

Watch Muhammad Ali have fun sparring with Sylvester Stallone at 1977 Oscars image

Muhammad Ali was the ultimate showstopper. 

MORE: Classic Muhammad Ali photos | Ranking Ali's best fights 

The three-time heavyweight champion, who died late Friday night (US time), captivated audiences the world over for more than 50 years. Affectionately known as the "Louisville Lip," he was known as much for his gift of gab as his stiff jab. 

Ali's appearance alongside "Rocky" star Sylvester Stallone at the 1977 Oscars encapsulated his greatness and star appeal like few others. The inspiration for the character Apollo Creed, Rocky Balboa's arch nemesis in the cult classic films, Ali made an unforgettable cameo as Stallone presented and made the movie star put up his dukes. 

That's the greatest at his finest folks. 

Nick Birdsong