Former Heavyweight champion, “Smokin” Joe Frazier passed away from Liver cancer on Monday night.
Frazier was at his home in Philadelphia.
Frazier, who basically is responsible for being coined the term “Philadelphia Fighter” is best known for his trilogy with Muhammad Ali, which most sports writers and historians believe is the greatest rivalry in sports.
Frazier won an Olympic Gold Medal in 1968.
Frazier won the title when he defeated Jimmy Ellis in 1970 and defended against Bob Foster before the first of his three bouts with Ali.
In that bout, which was the most anticipated boxing match off all time, Frazier defeated Ali via 15 round decision.
Frazier defended the title two more times before being dropped six times in two rounds in losing the crown to George Foreman.
Frazier lost the second and third fights to Ali with the third fight being the famous “Thrilla in Manila”
Frazier would receive one more shot at the title as he was sopped in five to Foreman. he took a five year hiatus and fighting to a draw with Floyd Cummings in 1981.
Frazier finished his carer with a mark of 32-4-1 with twenty-seven knockouts.