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LONDON. – Two of Muhammad Ali’s daughters say their father is laughing at the rumours of his demise.

Boxing legend Ali (72) has had Parkinson’s disease since 1984 and there has been constant speculation that his health is deteriorating.

But his daughters Maryum and Hana have told BBC Sport that their father is in good spirits.

“He likes being talked about. He thinks it is funny and says he isn’t dying,” said Hana.

“Even when these stories come out he gets excited and thinks he is going to make the front page of the papers.”

Ali appeared frail when he attended the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympics but Maryum and Hana say that despite his condition, he remains alert and active. – BBC Sport.