Muhammed Ali, one of the greatest boxers ever, is likely to be the guest of honour at next month's boxing extravaganza in Dubai.

The organisers, Golden Globe Promotions, yesterday revealed that they had extended an invitation to Ali and were awaiting a favourable reply.

"We are trying to bring him to Dubai," said Sammy Retta who will fight on the undercard and has also helped organise the event. "We have been in contact with him and we're hoping he will agree.

"Ali is a great goodwill amabassador of the sport and will do anything and everything to help promote it. Provided he's fit and healthy he will be in Dubai to watch us fight. It will be a great occasion for all."

Ali, whose boxing career lasted 20 years during which he won 56 fights and scored 37 knockouts, turned 60 earlier this year.