The Legendary Career of Boxer Joe Frazier
Joe Frazier: Smokin' Joe
Joe Frazier (born January 12, 1944 – died November 7, 2011) was an American professional boxer who competed from 1965 to 1976. He reigned as the undisputed heavyweight champion from 1970 to 1973. Frazier was known for his aggressive, come-forward fighting style and his devastating left hook. He was also known for his toughness and his ability to take a punch.
Frazier was born in Beaufort, South Carolina, and grew up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He began boxing at a young age and won the Olympic gold medal in the heavyweight division in 1964. Frazier turned professional in 1965 and quickly rose through the ranks. He won the WBC and WBA heavyweight titles in 1970 by defeating Jimmy Ellis.
Frazier made his first title defense against Muhammad Ali in 1971. The fight, which was billed as "The Fight of the Century," was one of the most anticipated and exciting fights in boxing history. Frazier won the fight by unanimous decision after 15 rounds.
Frazier made two more title defenses before losing to George Foreman in 1973. He lost a rematch to Ali in 1974. Frazier retired from boxing in 1976 with a record of 32-4-1.
Frazier was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990. He was also named one of the greatest boxers of all time by Ring Magazine.
Frazier died of liver cancer on November 7, 2011, at the age of 67. He is survived by his wife, Florence, and 11 children.
Frazier's legacy
Joe Frazier is one of the most celebrated boxers of all time. He was a two-time heavyweight champion and is considered one of the greatest fighters of his era. Frazier was known for his aggressive, come-forward fighting style and his devastating left hook. He was also known for his toughness and his ability to take a punch.
Frazier's most famous fight was against Muhammad Ali in 1971. The fight, which was billed as "The Fight of the Century," was one of the most anticipated and exciting fights in boxing history. Frazier won the fight by unanimous decision after 15 rounds.
Frazier's legacy is one of greatness and determination. He was a true champion who never gave up, even in the face of adversity. He is an inspiration to boxers and athletes around the world.
Here are some of Frazier's most notable achievements:
- Olympic gold medalist in the heavyweight division (1964)
- Undisputed heavyweight champion (1970-1973)
- WBC and WBA heavyweight champion
- Won 32 of 37 professional fights
- Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame (1990)
- Named one of the greatest boxers of all time by Ring Magazine
Joe Frazier vs. Muhammad Ali (1971)
The "Fight of the Century" was held on March 8, 1971, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The fight was for the undisputed heavyweight championship of the world. Frazier was the undefeated champion, while Ali was the challenger.
The fight was a brutal affair, with both fighters landing numerous hard punches. Frazier's left hook was particularly effective, as it opened up a cut on Ali's eye and caused him to bleed profusely. Ali was also able to land some hard punches, but Frazier was able to take them and keep coming forward.
The fight went the full 15 rounds, with Frazier winning by unanimous decision. The fight was declared a classic, and it is considered one of the greatest boxing matches of all time.
Joe Frazier vs. Jerry Quarry (1969)
Frazier won the fight by technical knockout in the seventh round. Quarry was knocked down twice in the round, and the referee stopped the fight.
Joe Frazier vs. Buster Mathis (1970)
Frazier won the fight by unanimous decision after 15 rounds. Frazier was able to land his left hook at will, and Mathis was never able to mount a serious challenge.
Joe Frazier vs. George Foreman (1973)
Foreman was a heavy favorite, as he was known for his devastating punching power. However, Frazier was able to withstand Foreman's punches and eventually knocked him out in the second round.
Frazier's victory over Foreman was one of the biggest upsets in boxing history. It also proved that Frazier was one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time.
Joe Frazier was a true boxing legend. He was a fierce competitor and a devastating puncher. He was also a man of great courage and determination. Frazier's legacy will live on for generations to come.
Frazier's impact on boxing
Joe Frazier had a profound impact on boxing. He was one of the most exciting and popular fighters of his era, and his fights were always must-see events. Frazier's aggressive, come-forward fighting style helped to revolutionize the sport of boxing. He was also a pioneer for African-American boxers, and he helped to pave the way for future champions like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson.
Frazier's legacy is one of greatness and determination. He was a true champion who never gave up, even in the face of adversity. He is an inspiration to boxers and athletes around the world.
