Joe Frazier

Joseph “Smokin’ Joe” Frazier defeated Muhammad Ali for the World Heavyweight boxing championship in the heralded 1971 “Fight of the Century.” He held the title for two years before losing to George Foreman by knockout. While most of his professional fights were between 1965-1976, he made a brief comeback in 1981 before retiring for good. Much of his career was outlined by his tenuous relationship with Ali. In all, he would meet Ali for three legendary bouts (losing two), including the world famous “Thrilla in Manila.” Later in life, with a renowned gym in Philadelphia, he trained his son and daughter. After a battle with liver cancer, Frazier passed away at the age of 67 on November 7, 2011.