"This began with 'The Champ' a decade ago," spokesman Bob Gunnell told reporters at a news conference. "As he convened the meeting, he said, 'This is what I would like to see, this is the type of program that I would like to see, that is inclusive of everyone, where we give as many people an opportunity that want to pay their respects to me.' "
Ali also said it was important that the memorials be conducted in the Muslim tradition, Gunnell said.
