RIP: Smokin’ Joe Frazier

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Last night the world lost one of the greatest fighters to ever enter a boxing ring.  Smokin’ Joe Frazier passed away at the age of 67 from liver cancer.

Joe Frazier only lost 4 times [twice to Muhammad Ali and twice to George Foreman] in his career which saw him crowned the heavyweight champion of the world.   Joe Frazier will forever be remembered as the first man to beat Muhammad Ali.

Although he fought Ali two more times [losing by decision in the first rematch], it is their third meeting, The Thrilla in Manilla that many consider to be the greatest boxing match ever.   After the fourteenth round, with Joe’s eyes swelling shut, his trainer, Eddie Futch called the fight.  Futch then said to Joe, “Sit down, son. “It’s all over. Nobody will ever forget what you did here today.”

And we won’t.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Joe Frazier’s family, friends and fans.