Joe Frazier, the former world heavyweight champion who famously defeated Muhammad Ali in the 'Fight of the Century', has died at the age of 78. Frazier passed away after a brief battle with liver cancer, his family confirmed.
Frazier's legacy extends beyond his Olympic gold medal and undisputed world title. He fought 12 world-title bouts, boasted a 73% knockout record, and was renowned for his devastating left hook. Despite a damaged arm and blindness in one eye, he achieved greatness in a career defined by his rivalry with Ali.
The rivalry with Ali was both a blessing and a curse. While it elevated Frazier's status, it also left him feeling overshadowed. Ali's taunts, including calling Frazier an 'Uncle Tom', were deeply wounding. Yet Frazier later softened, saying in 2009, 'I'd do anything he needed for me to help.'
Their first fight in 1971 at Madison Square Garden was a brutal 15-round war. Frazier knocked Ali down in the 15th round and won a unanimous decision. However, Frazier never recaptured that form, suffering two knockout losses to George Foreman.
Frazier's death marks the end of an era in boxing. He is survived by his children and grandchildren.
