Muhammad Ali has celebrated his 70th birthday in Las Vegas.

A number of celebrities paid tribute to the legendary boxer at a star-studded party at the MGM Grand, which was attended by around 2,000 people, with soccer star David Beckham revealing the sportsman has been a big inspiration throughout his career.

The La Galaxy player said: ''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.''

Stevie Wonder also paid tribute to Ali, while US President Barack Obama sent his birthday wishes to the former world heavyweight champion - who has been battling Parkinson's disease since 1984 - via a video message.

The message explained: ''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.''