Overpower Joe Frazier to beat him and Foreman had that in abundance, to why he was successful in beating him. Fraziers defence he was in no physical condition or endurance to fight Foreman. The Frazier of 1st Bonavena & Manuel Ramos fight fought Foreman it would’ve been a different outcome.
@@clevelandwilliams5922I doubt it, sure Frazier got dropped by Bonavena & barley won the fight. Frazier is just all wrong for Foreman, he's made for Foremans style.
Frazier hurts every time he thinks of Ali. His hostility still rages within. It's a consuming, ugly bitterness he has carried for decades, the result of the hurtful things Ali has said. He insulted his intelligence, his character and his lack of black pride. Ali called Frazier ugly and ignorant and, most disturbingly, an Uncle Tom. Frazier, the son of South Carolina sharecroppers, was deeply wounded by Ali's ridicule which was accepted as socio-political fact and isolated Frazier from the black community. Ali somehow succeeded in making a fight between two African - American men a matter of black and white. Throughout the black community, he was an object of derision and scorn because of the way Ali treated him, it was cruel. The hatred grew intensely within Frazier. He was unable to compete with Ali's eloquence, but he had a left hook that could do the talking for him. Frazier, with loating in his heart and thunder in his Everlast gloves, punished Ali for the things he said. Notice after Ali vs Frazier 1 fight announcers said Frazier was feeling sic in his corner and he just wanted to go back to dressing room. That's because Joe couldn't slow his heart and nervous system back down to a resting state. Joe already had history of high blood pressure and diabetes, he spent nearly two weeks in the hospital for exhaustion, blood pressure, diabetes and kidney problems.. BUT BUT when he was in his 40s Joe was out dancing and singing in the clubs while Ali couldn't talk and his tremors were getting worse. Younger folks haven't a clue what Ali actually did to Joe, let me explain by saying it's exactly like today's Hollywood liberal cancel culture. Frazier hated that Louisville Lip and before fight he got on his knees and prayed to God that he could make Ali perish. Personally i have to admit, everytime Frazier smacked Ali i cheered, We All Cheered, MILLIONS CHEERED "We locked up three times. He won two, and I won one. But look at him now. I think I won all three." -- Joe Frazier
@@stand.6008What about George Chuvalo? Who never has been knocked down for 93 matches, including fights with Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, and George Foreman.
@@stand.6008 When Jose Ribalta fought Mike Tyson, he took about 1000 hydrogen bomb punches from Tyson, and ate them all as if they were fingerfood entrees LOL.
Won the 1964 Olympic Gold despite having a broken thumb Fought through two knockdowns to beat Oscar Bonavena, and then beat him again Went through hell in 1971 and 1975 to achieve the two greatest efforts in boxing history Severely outmatched, showed tremendous heart in rising from 5 crushing knockdowns at the hands of one of (if not the) the heaviest punchers in history, then wore contacts for the rematch because his eyesight was shot Did all this while suffering from diabetes, low blood pressure, and being half-blind for most of his career...truly a great, great man
Don't forget that old Farm injury that hampered mobility in one of his Arms. ( I think it was his left ) I can't remember exactly.. I apologize. Regardless, Frazier was one TOUGH, Son of a Gun.
Reading about this man changed my life, he taught me that discipline, willpower and sheer dogged determination are necessary for success in many facets of life not just boxing. He's the reason I got my life on track.
Joe Frazier is one of the best examples of hard work, determination, courage and resolve. He’ll always be remembered for defeating the much more gifted Muhammad Ali because on that special night he was just not going to lose! Great documentary Rich.
Yeah Frazier was made from the mold they used to make role models. They truly don't make them like him anymore. What a great man who was treated so unfairly to and by the public
Frazier and Ali's Rivalry will never be topped honestly, thanks to their bouts they both became the greatest heavyweights in their division and sparked a boom period in boxing history. Heck you can't mention one of these guys without saying the other, that's how synonymous their bouts truly were. Joe is one of THE all time greats, a true legend that will never be forgotten. RIP Joe
Hammering Hanks style efficiently utilized by a Heavyweight! A most Remarkable and Unique Champion! Joe Frazier thanks for those fantastic and fabulous memories ❤️
I met him once when I was a courier in Philly. He held the elevator for me, shook my hand and was really gracious. Dressed in all white from fedora to shoes. The city should've saved his gym as a historic landmark. Hated seeing him live off of canned food at the end of his life.
Another awesome episode. Frazier doesn't get the credit he deserves as a top heavyweight. Tremendous heart, technique and the one of the best hooks ever.
When you look deep into Joe's life and talk with the people who knew him intimately, you'll find Joe found solace in the bottle. Even during his reign, he was a very heavy drinker. In the years before his death, Bob Foster, when asked what were his memories of Frazier as a fighter and a man replied "Man...that guy could drink". He advised Joe many times he needed to slow down or he was going to kill himself. The diabetes, hepatitis and the alcohol led to the liver cancer. To his last days, he drank from a pint of brandy spiked with cough drops. The image of him in his final years living in a room above the gym, all the money gone is so so very sad.
That explains a lot mate. I think Joe looked real out of shape vs Foreman in the first fight. Ali said he looked fat vs Foreman and I believe him. He just didnt look like the same fighter that battered Ali in 71. Maybe it was the drinking 🤔. Although I think George would have always beaten Joe.
Joes first fight against Jimmy Ellis is one scary showing of how dangerous frazier could be.. The Venom in his left hooks is bone chilling to watch.. Eddie Futch did a fantastic job with Frazier.. 👊🔥
I Know you like to focus on some of the lesser known fighters, which I love, but thanks for covering Smoking Joe. He definitely deserves the fight historian’s perspective. Joe was a man’s man and a fighter’s fighter. I hope you have a lot of young followers. They need to know.
What can I say Rich.That is one massive effort on your behalf.Your hard work is much appreciated. This has to be the most comprehensive documentry that I have seen on Joe.Thank you.Enjoyed this immensely. 🤗👍🥊🇦🇺
9 consecutive title defenses between 1968 - 1973 in the golden age. Top 5 HW of all time with Big George & Muhammad We will always remember the trilogy with Muhammad as the greatest in sports history. Smokin Joe Rest in Peace 👍
Curiously, Frazier was allowed to keep his heavyweight title in the 2 years after his first fight with Ali in 1971, he only fought 2 tomato cans in Ron Stander and Terry Daniels, and the rule should be that the champion must fight the top contender every year, yet Frazier didn’t fight any legit top contenders for two years after Ali, until he was forced to fight Foreman in 1973, don’t know how Frazier was able to get away with that.
@@Cychopath99 I mean Ali in 1978 too fought an unknown boxer to defend his title. Ali was given many decisions unfairly in 1976 (Young + Norton III). Plus Frazier cleaned out the division the only missing contender was Foreman at that time. Frazier beat Quarry twice. Bonnavena twice. Bugner already. Ellis once. In 1972 the only possible serious contender was only George and it has been agreed the fight takes place the very begining of next year.
@Cychopath99 thank god someone else sees my flaws in frazers record... meanwhile Ali fought 8 times in the same period and was number one contender.. frazer turned down 3 million to fight Ali in a rematch and instead took 850 k to fight foreman !!?? Also frazer wouldn't fight liston in late 60s and he never fought, lyle, Norton or shavers... all facts
@@alangrace8628 you are 100 % right, after the First Ali fight, Frazier and his management was ducking Ali and everybody of significance for 2 years, Meanwhile Ali was cleaning up the division for him. Frazier didn’t even fight Bugner, his only other opponent of significance until he got blown away in 2 rounds by Foreman, and by that time, Bugner had already lost to Ali anyway
@Cychopath99 and many believe frazer lost the fight to bugner... Joe was a great fighter but he is overrated...just look at his resume.. I believe liston would have destroyed him in 68/69 if sonny had prepared properly
Brings a tear to my eye just considering what a great, magnificent champion and man Joe Frazier was. Just when you think it cannot get any better Rich The Fight Historian produces this. Thank you.
Incredible man. Huge heart. Talent, hard work, determination. He grew up working class the hard way, never played victim when life dealt him a shitty card, he still fought through it, it only made him stronger. and those who knew him said he was a really nice man. We can all admire a humble man that came from nothing Plus he gave Ali his first loss. Ali knew Joe would take him to deep waters. Machine. R.i.p the real Rocky.
Much THANKS to Rich, the Fight Historian. For all of the hard work that he does by passionately putting out the excellent presentations of boxings RICH HISTORY. Bravo!👏 Keep on keeping on, Rich. Life has many battles, and battlefields, and we all need to learn how to Fight the good fight of faith. We all need a strategy, a plan, and an attitude of courage and determination. This channel helps develop all of those things. Tune in, and get ready to learn from the many experiences that Rich brings to us. Enjoy the journey, and learn to fight. ✝🥊🙏
@@RichtheFightHistorian As you say, "Its my pleasure." I wanted to make a larger donation, but I was restricted to $15 bucks. I'll be sure to make some more contributions; you deserve it. Sincere THANKS, Rich.
If Tyson had the heart and character of Frazier he would he would have been an all time great HW instead of an all time great puncher Joe was a great man
Agreed.tho to look at they’re styles might look similar I think that tyson was more a well oiled machine.I have to say tho I don’t think Tyson had a poor chin just didn’t have the heart especially later on.No one could ever question fraziers heart
@@darrenstopper1806 I think in a computer simulated match between Ali and Tyson , Tyson would have won if he had the benefit of studying this fight . Cus D'Amato would have had all the answers Iron Mike needed to beat Ali .
Great job rich, you can't do enough on joe Frazier, such a great and interesting life 😊. I first learned about him because of wwf wersling when he was Mr T's trainer. Watched several different DOCS this is a great one. Thanks
Joe Frazier has a giant statue at the xfinity live at the sports stadiums, the rocky statue was a prop from rocky 3 left behind after the film wrapped the city had nothing to do with the rocky statue it moved around several times until they put it at the bottom of art museum stairs since tourist identified the stairs with Rocky I agree that his old gym should designated as a historic place
If you haven't please read Ghost of Manila. Love how the author Mark Kram talks about Frazier. He writes that Eddie Futch says after the Thrilla in Manila that it was the best body attack he'd ever seen a heavyweight deliver. Kram said, agreed, no words could describe the sound of the flamenco on Ali's body. The aural effect was horrendous.
I was fortunate to hang out with Butch Lewis at the Tyson vs. Holmes fight. He told me saw multiple sparring partners spitting blood while sparring with Joe.
Frazier was tough as nails. Gave Ali all he could handle. But Big George was just a little too much for em but still went out like a man. RIP to one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.
Joe Frazier was alway a personal hero of mine, that I did report on him for a speech class in college. It’s been years so my memory could be a little off… The story I came across on why he left home when he was 15, was this… It might be a friend or just a random kid from a share cropping family. But the other boy did something to up set a white man. I don’t remember what it was, in those days it could be anything. And the man started to get physical with the boy and started to beat him. Well Frazier who was very strong from work on his family’s farm, didn’t like this and intervened. Joe started to fight the man and ultimately knocked him out. In those days, a black boy knocking out a white man was pretty much a death sentence. For that reason, his family decided he should go. The story I heard on why his left hand was so strong, was this… His father in a farming accident hurt one of his arms (not sure which one), and it was either amputated of damaged permanently. The family needing to make money, Joe would go out and work with his dad who had 1 functioning arm. In helping his father on the farm, he had to be on the opposite side of his father to help him lift things. In doing this, he had to utilize his left arm more than his right. Which made his arm extra strong, giving him that insane left hook.
There will never be a greater era of heavyweights. Any of these warriors would beat todays so-called champs. They fought toe-to-toe, blow for blow with very little clenching. Thanks for another great presentation, Rich. You are a Boxing CHAMP in your own right, as your videos will live on as a tribute to the greatest fighters of all time!!!
Rich, I'm sure people say this all the time, but thank you for documenting the history of both the titans and lesser known competitors in the sport. For someone like me who boxes for exercise, I love learning about the sport and your editing, footage, and narration make it great!
What a story. I loved Smokin Joe. I remember as a teen growing up Watching on a small black and white TV on my front porch in Brooklyn those fights. He had such a clean short fast tight left hook. God bless and thanks Rich
I was a little kid when Joe Frazier was about past his prime. I personally think Frazier was never the same after the first Ali fight. It took a big chunk out of his prime years. After the 3rd Ali fight, he was finished as a serious contender. I did love his fighting spirit. It's a shame that Frazier hated Ali for all of those years, but I totally understand. Ali was not nice to his opponents and knew how to hit (not literally) their nerves.
Ali crossed the line. He called Frazier a gorilla, and people laughed. Howard Cosell called a football player a 'monkey' on MNF, and was excoriated. Ridiculous double standard.
thank you Rich for this informative piece..... and the extended fight footage. heavyweight contests in that era were such wars, and it's not surprising to see how f*cked up those boxers were in later life, with the exception of George Forman. brutal, I but can't help but be impressed....
Frazier is my favorite heavyweight! Not only his style (Smokin'!) but above all his heart. You can just tell this is an awesome dude. The fact he did all he did for Ali only to call him every horrible insult imaginable (his kids were even bullied, and he received death threats) and never once did he bring up everything he did for him, and that tells you all you need to know about the man. Lastly, I have to give a shoutout to his trainer and the clip at 23:54. I feel for this guy when he answers the reporter about everyone thinking their entitled to *his* money that he earned the hard way. As if he should be ashamed to have made some dough. People are pathetic. "And I'm not givin' up nothin'." Hell yea bro, nor should you have too.
Another EXCELLENT doc. Let me tell you when Frazier got smokin, that hook was quick and had tremendous snap. They talk about Mt Rushmore chins. But when it comes to a Mt Rushmore of will and determination, Joe as well as Ali, would definitely be carved in. Reliving that 1rst fight, you realize how brutal it was. Both fighters lost a couple year off that fight. Personal observation. I know that knock down of Ali was a good shot, but that shot at the 49:02 almost broke Ali's neck. Even Joe thought he would fall. Dream match-up, Frazier vs Marciano. What a fight that wouldn't have been. Id go with Frazier. Just too big.
Always liked and respected Joe Frazier. He was a class act, he always gave 100%. In conducting himself as a gentleman. He also have one of the most underrated left hooks in the history of boxing. He was small for a heavyweight and that eventually caught up with him. He had tremendous heart like all great champions. And just a great guy. And he totally lived the hardships of being a black American of his time. You are a great man Joe. And a great former champion. God bless you sir!
If you look closely at Cloverlay sponsoring group photo, I believe you can see Joe Hand Sr, early investor, friend , sometimes sparring partner and quality fight promoter.
Interesting personal story. In 1972 at ten years old. I ran away from home i lived in Victoria BC Canada. My father caught up to me Spokane Washington. My father and I had a rare disagreement. I was a stubborn kid my father called the Philadelphia gym and finally convinced them his stubborn son was headed to Philadelphia I was hitch hicking and the family that picked me up convinced me my family would be worried about me and kindly had me call my father. This family stayed with me in Spokane Washington until my father arrived and took me home. My father wasn't mad at me but extremely worried about me. I realised what i had done . How extremely selfish my actions where. My relationship with my father was extremely close, he recently passed, I was blessed to have such a great father and mother. Of Smokin Joe Frazier called my father to make sure I was found safe and sound. My father put me on phone with Mr Frazier. Mr Frazier with kindness explained that my actions worried many people. He was gentle and kind with me. Then I met his son briefly when ge demolished Wille DeWitt of Canada. I ened my boxing at 17 years old. Cheers
TH-cam has been deleting comments I leave for some reason but I left one yesterday talking about how great this doc was. They're all great I watch em all but this one was extra great. Thx rich
Oba Carr from Detroit would be a good documentary. In the mid to late 90's gave all three welterweight champs good fights despite losing to Delahoya, Trinidad, and Ike Quartey.
My son, who never saw Frazier fight, played a video boxing game. He described Frazier as 'that guy that never stops.'
Overpower Joe Frazier to beat him and Foreman had that in abundance, to why he was successful in beating him. Fraziers defence he was in no physical condition or endurance to fight Foreman. The Frazier of 1st Bonavena & Manuel Ramos fight fought Foreman it would’ve been a different outcome.
😂 accurate
@@clevelandwilliams5922I doubt it, sure Frazier got dropped by Bonavena & barley won the fight. Frazier is just all wrong for Foreman, he's made for Foremans style.
Smokin' Joe, fought in some of the most exciting, important and memorable boxing matches in history. The stuff of legends.
Frazier hurts every time he thinks of Ali. His hostility still rages within. It's a consuming, ugly bitterness he has carried for decades, the result of the hurtful things Ali has said. He insulted his intelligence, his character and his lack of black pride. Ali called Frazier ugly and ignorant and, most disturbingly, an Uncle Tom. Frazier, the son of South Carolina sharecroppers, was deeply wounded by Ali's ridicule which was accepted as socio-political fact and isolated Frazier from the black community.
Ali somehow succeeded in making a fight between two African - American men a matter of black and white. Throughout the black community, he was an object of derision and scorn because of the way Ali treated him, it was cruel. The hatred grew intensely within Frazier. He was unable to compete with Ali's eloquence, but he had a left hook that could do the talking for him. Frazier, with loating in his heart and thunder in his Everlast gloves, punished Ali for the things he said.
Notice after Ali vs Frazier 1 fight announcers said Frazier was feeling sic in his corner and he just wanted to go back to dressing room. That's because Joe couldn't slow his heart and nervous system back down to a resting state. Joe already had history of high blood pressure and diabetes, he spent nearly two weeks in the hospital for exhaustion, blood pressure, diabetes and kidney problems..
BUT BUT when he was in his 40s Joe was out dancing and singing in the clubs while Ali couldn't talk and his tremors were getting worse. Younger folks haven't a clue what Ali actually did to Joe, let me explain by saying it's exactly like today's Hollywood liberal cancel culture. Frazier hated that Louisville Lip and before fight he got on his knees and prayed to God that he could make Ali perish.
Personally i have to admit, everytime Frazier smacked Ali i cheered, We All Cheered, MILLIONS CHEERED
"We locked up three times. He won two, and I won one. But look at him now. I think I won all three." -- Joe Frazier
Don't know how Ali ate that hook clean and got up, unreal toughness. Smokin Joe was a legend for sure, love the guy.
Ali could take a punch...maybe better than any heavyweight during his era and most other eras.
As Ron Lyle said about Ali in the documetary “Facing Ali”
“Man was no joke, Man could fight”
@@stand.6008What about George Chuvalo? Who never has been knocked down for 93 matches, including fights with Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, and George Foreman.
sergiusfidenas6650
Its got to be genetic, like you alluded to most fihhters would be sparko
@@stand.6008
When Jose Ribalta fought Mike Tyson, he took about 1000 hydrogen bomb punches from Tyson, and ate them all as if they were fingerfood entrees LOL.
Won the 1964 Olympic Gold despite having a broken thumb
Fought through two knockdowns to beat Oscar Bonavena, and then beat him again
Went through hell in 1971 and 1975 to achieve the two greatest efforts in boxing history
Severely outmatched, showed tremendous heart in rising from 5 crushing knockdowns at the hands of one of (if not the) the heaviest punchers in history, then wore contacts for the rematch because his eyesight was shot
Did all this while suffering from diabetes, low blood pressure, and being half-blind for most of his career...truly a great, great man
Don't forget that old Farm injury that hampered mobility in one of his Arms. ( I think it was his left ) I can't remember exactly.. I apologize. Regardless, Frazier was one TOUGH, Son of a Gun.
So much respect for this man. His family must’ve been so so proud
@@nervosadustbolt9642
Yes, I think it was his left arm, which gave him a 'natural', permanent left hook.
A perfect encapsulation of Joe Frazier. Great comment.👍
Reading about this man changed my life, he taught me that discipline, willpower and sheer dogged determination are necessary for success in many facets of life not just boxing. He's the reason I got my life on track.
Which books about him did you read?
True measure of overcoming adversity & challenge. He moved mountains because of that courage he displayed in & out of the ring.
Such an admirable man. We need these men to give the young men inspiration
Same for me ❤️🔥
Joe Frazier is one of the best examples of hard work, determination, courage and resolve. He’ll always be remembered for defeating the much more gifted Muhammad Ali because on that special night he was just not going to lose! Great documentary Rich.
It's hard to say, but he was a better person than Ali through and through.
Yeah Frazier was made from the mold they used to make role models. They truly don't make them like him anymore. What a great man who was treated so unfairly to and by the public
I admire Ali- But if i had a wish to have lunch with Ali or Frazier i would go with Joe..@Manny-nm8dh
Joe would have beat any Heavyweight in the World on that night!
Thanks for the documentary of Joe Frazier
Joe will always be my favourite heavyweight
Epitome of Philly badassness and grit. True guts wiping out true talent. Every. Time.
My favorite too!
He's always been my favorite ever.2nd is Iron Mike.
Me too!!! Me too!!! Hell, he is my favorite fighter of ALL time of ANY Weight Class.
He is my favorite, too! He was a much better person than Ali
Frazier and Ali's Rivalry will never be topped honestly, thanks to their bouts they both became the greatest heavyweights in their division and sparked a boom period in boxing history. Heck you can't mention one of these guys without saying the other, that's how synonymous their bouts truly were. Joe is one of THE all time greats, a true legend that will never be forgotten. RIP Joe
Joe Frazier moulded his style on Henry Armstrong, both fantastic fighters,
Hammering Hanks style efficiently utilized by a Heavyweight! A most Remarkable and Unique Champion! Joe Frazier thanks for those fantastic and fabulous memories ❤️
I met him once when I was a courier in Philly. He held the elevator for me, shook my hand and was really gracious. Dressed in all white from fedora to shoes. The city should've saved his gym as a historic landmark. Hated seeing him live off of canned food at the end of his life.
Another awesome episode. Frazier doesn't get the credit he deserves as a top heavyweight. Tremendous heart, technique and the one of the best hooks ever.
Thank you, John.
Thank You Rich! Smokin Joe exemplifies the sport of Boxing. He was a very dangerous man in the ring. A gentleman outside of it.
Sure thing, TheBatugan
When you look deep into Joe's life and talk with the people who knew him intimately, you'll find Joe found solace in the bottle. Even during his reign, he was a very heavy drinker. In the years before his death, Bob Foster, when asked what were his memories of Frazier as a fighter and a man replied "Man...that guy could drink". He advised Joe many times he needed to slow down or he was going to kill himself. The diabetes, hepatitis and the alcohol led to the liver cancer. To his last days, he drank from a pint of brandy spiked with cough drops. The image of him in his final years living in a room above the gym, all the money gone is so so very sad.
That explains a lot mate. I think Joe looked real out of shape vs Foreman in the first fight. Ali said he looked fat vs Foreman and I believe him. He just didnt look like the same fighter that battered Ali in 71. Maybe it was the drinking 🤔. Although I think George would have always beaten Joe.
Joes first fight against Jimmy Ellis is one scary showing of how dangerous frazier could be.. The Venom in his left hooks is bone chilling to watch.. Eddie Futch did a fantastic job with Frazier..
👊🔥
Thank you for another great job Rich . Your boxing documentaries are some of the best content on TH-cam .
Thanks so much, Philip.
I Know you like to focus on some of the lesser known fighters, which I love, but thanks for covering Smoking Joe. He definitely deserves the fight historian’s perspective. Joe was a man’s man and a fighter’s fighter. I hope you have a lot of young followers. They need to know.
My pleasure, whitehurstcomic. Yes, it's a shame that the younger fans only know him from video games, if at all.
What more can I say that hasn't already been said.
Great man great fighter. RIP Smokin Joe 🙏
I’ve been trying to find a good Joe Frazier documentary on TH-cam forever I’m so happy you made one he was such a legend
Glad to provide one, Tacitus.
Marvin Hagler, and Joe Frazier are my favorite pugilist!!
What can I say Rich.That is one massive effort on your behalf.Your hard work is much appreciated. This has to be the most comprehensive documentry that I have seen on Joe.Thank you.Enjoyed this immensely. 🤗👍🥊🇦🇺
Thanks so much, Darryl.
9 consecutive title defenses between 1968 - 1973 in the golden age.
Top 5 HW of all time with Big George & Muhammad
We will always remember the trilogy with Muhammad as the greatest in sports history.
Smokin Joe Rest in Peace 👍
Curiously, Frazier was allowed to keep his heavyweight title in the 2 years after his first fight with Ali in 1971, he only fought 2 tomato cans in Ron Stander and Terry Daniels, and the rule should be that the champion must fight the top contender every year, yet Frazier didn’t fight any legit top contenders for two years after Ali, until he was forced to fight Foreman in 1973, don’t know how Frazier was able to get away with that.
@@Cychopath99 I mean Ali in 1978 too fought an unknown boxer to defend his title. Ali was given many decisions unfairly in 1976 (Young + Norton III).
Plus Frazier cleaned out the division the only missing contender was Foreman at that time. Frazier beat Quarry twice. Bonnavena twice. Bugner already. Ellis once. In 1972 the only possible serious contender was only George and it has been agreed the fight takes place the very begining of next year.
@Cychopath99 thank god someone else sees my flaws in frazers record... meanwhile Ali fought 8 times in the same period and was number one contender.. frazer turned down 3 million to fight Ali in a rematch and instead took 850 k to fight foreman !!??
Also frazer wouldn't fight liston in late 60s and he never fought, lyle, Norton or shavers... all facts
@@alangrace8628 you are 100 % right, after the First Ali fight, Frazier and his management was ducking Ali and everybody of significance for 2 years, Meanwhile Ali was cleaning up the division for him. Frazier didn’t even fight Bugner, his only other opponent of significance until he got blown away in 2 rounds by Foreman, and by that time, Bugner had already lost to Ali anyway
@Cychopath99 and many believe frazer lost the fight to bugner... Joe was a great fighter but he is overrated...just look at his resume.. I believe liston would have destroyed him in 68/69 if sonny had prepared properly
YES...thank you Rich. Love me some Smokin'.
My pleasure, GetSmart
Brings a tear to my eye just considering what a great, magnificent champion and man Joe Frazier was. Just when you think it cannot get any better Rich The Fight Historian produces this. Thank you.
Thank you for the kind words, GEGBoxing. Yes, Frazier was one helluva champion.
Joe still doesnt get the credit he deserves. No one beat Ali more convincingly. The first fight he was unbeatable.
Frazier is one of my all time favourites. He was a great Boxer and even better Person.
You've out done yourself today Rich I didn't expect two videos especially one being about a legend.Your amazing man
Hey thanks, a-above
My favorite fighter, all time, bar none. Looking forward to watching this Rich. Thanks in advance.
My pleasure, TheBatugan.
My favorite heavyweight champ , great video thanks Rich🥊🥊
Sure thing, Vinny.
One of the best hooks in the history of the sport.
Incredible man. Huge heart. Talent, hard work, determination. He grew up working class the hard way, never played victim when life dealt him a shitty card, he still fought through it, it only made him stronger. and those who knew him said he was a really nice man.
We can all admire a humble man that came from nothing
Plus he gave Ali his first loss. Ali knew Joe would take him to deep waters. Machine. R.i.p the real Rocky.
Much THANKS to Rich, the Fight Historian. For all of the hard work that he does by passionately putting out the excellent presentations of boxings RICH HISTORY.
Bravo!👏
Keep on keeping on, Rich.
Life has many battles, and battlefields, and we all need to learn how to Fight the good fight of faith. We all need a strategy, a plan, and an attitude of courage and determination. This channel helps develop all of those things. Tune in, and get ready to learn from the many experiences that Rich brings to us. Enjoy the journey, and learn to fight. ✝🥊🙏
Wow, thank you very much, Chris. I appreciate all that.
@@RichtheFightHistorian
As you say, "Its my pleasure." I wanted to make a larger donation, but I was restricted to $15 bucks.
I'll be sure to make some more contributions; you deserve it. Sincere THANKS, Rich.
If Tyson had the heart and character of Frazier he would he would have been an all time great HW instead of an all time great puncher
Joe was a great man
So true because to me tyson did everything better than Frazier, but Frazier had a chin and was mentally stronger.
Agreed.tho to look at they’re styles might look similar I think that tyson was more a well oiled machine.I have to say tho I don’t think Tyson had a poor chin just didn’t have the heart especially later on.No one could ever question fraziers heart
@@darrenstopper1806 I think in a computer simulated match between Ali and Tyson , Tyson would have won if he had the benefit of studying this fight . Cus D'Amato would have had all the answers Iron Mike needed to beat Ali .
@@marymary83436
Smoking Joe got up six times against young George Foreman. Tyson never came close to doing that against anyone.
Thats a great comment.
Great job rich, you can't do enough on joe Frazier, such a great and interesting life 😊. I first learned about him because of wwf wersling when he was Mr T's trainer. Watched several different DOCS this is a great one. Thanks
My pleasure, Jesse. I have a friend who only knows him from Wrestlemania & Starrcade as well.
@@RichtheFightHistorian after that the cameo in Rocky 🥊 then al burns tines classic fight shows on ESPN
Wow...100+ minute from Rich on Joe Frazier..? Could me in!
Right on, John.
It boggles my mind that they have a statue of a make believe boxer in Philly, but let a true LEGEND, Mr. Frazier’s gym close.
Joe Frazier has a giant statue at the xfinity live at the sports stadiums, the rocky statue was a prop from rocky 3 left behind after the film wrapped the city had nothing to do with the rocky statue it moved around several times until they put it at the bottom of art museum stairs since tourist identified the stairs with Rocky I agree that his old gym should designated as a historic place
Frazier vs Quarry 1 was an insane fight. Very underrated slugfest 👊🏻👌🏻
Frazier& Marciano would have been barn burner!🥊😯
Best body punching heavyweight ever
If you haven't please read Ghost of Manila. Love how the author Mark Kram talks about Frazier. He writes that Eddie Futch says after the Thrilla in Manila that it was the best body attack he'd ever seen a heavyweight deliver. Kram said, agreed, no words could describe the sound of the flamenco on Ali's body. The aural effect was horrendous.
I was fortunate to hang out with Butch Lewis at the Tyson vs. Holmes fight. He told me saw multiple sparring partners spitting blood while sparring with Joe.
I had the pleasure to meet Mr fraser in Liverpool great boxer.
Frazier was tough as nails. Gave Ali all he could handle. But Big George was just a little too much for em but still went out like a man. RIP to one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.
Any extra footage of Smokin Joe Is appreciated 🥊💯
I'm 67, Joe Frazier is the Boxer I admire most. Huge Heart and Integrity. Great Expose Rich🤙
Thanks, D Man.
Joe Louis the referee, In Joe Fraziers second fight With Jerry Quarry. That's crazy, He was a boxing legend.
this is prolly one of my favorite 1hr:45min:48sec of my life and have watched this several times. i enjoyed this long format docu. very much, ty rich.
My pleasure, Robert, thanks.
Still one of the best TH-cam documentaries I've ever watched.... great job Rich!
Thanks so much, Jason.
I could watch Smokin' Joe Frazier hit the speed bag all day!!! He was just different, he will always be in my top 5
He was my first favorite fighter. Thank you, Rich.
My pleasure, Michael.
Joe Frazier was alway a personal hero of mine, that I did report on him for a speech class in college. It’s been years so my memory could be a little off…
The story I came across on why he left home when he was 15, was this…
It might be a friend or just a random kid from a share cropping family. But the other boy did something to up set a white man. I don’t remember what it was, in those days it could be anything. And the man started to get physical with the boy and started to beat him. Well Frazier who was very strong from work on his family’s farm, didn’t like this and intervened. Joe started to fight the man and ultimately knocked him out. In those days, a black boy knocking out a white man was pretty much a death sentence. For that reason, his family decided he should go.
The story I heard on why his left hand was so strong, was this…
His father in a farming accident hurt one of his arms (not sure which one), and it was either amputated of damaged permanently. The family needing to make money, Joe would go out and work with his dad who had 1 functioning arm. In helping his father on the farm, he had to be on the opposite side of his father to help him lift things. In doing this, he had to utilize his left arm more than his right. Which made his arm extra strong, giving him that insane left hook.
Ali/Frazier 1. The pinnacle of boxing. They will never be anything close to that matchup. Never.
There will never be a greater era of heavyweights. Any of these warriors would beat todays so-called champs. They fought toe-to-toe, blow for blow with very little clenching. Thanks for another great presentation, Rich. You are a Boxing CHAMP in your own right, as your videos will live on as a tribute to the greatest fighters of all time!!!
Thank you very much, Britt.
Rich, I'm sure people say this all the time, but thank you for documenting the history of both the titans and lesser known competitors in the sport. For someone like me who boxes for exercise, I love learning about the sport and your editing, footage, and narration make it great!
That's very nice to hear, Ben. Thank you.
Joe Frazier the nicest left hook I've ever seen
Best heavyweight fight of all time,two undefeated heavyweights and Smoking Joe got him!!!
Another banger from Mr. Rich! I really enjoy these long form videos. Impeccable research and footage. You’re the man, Mr. Rich. Thank you.
Thanks so much, Holy_Braille
My favorite fighter of ALL time.!! Thank you, so much!!
Sure thing, Nervosa.
Missing the "Down goes Frazier!.." call from Frazier vs Foreman 1. One of the most iconic calls in history of sports.
Yes, I know. I could not use that version.
@@RichtheFightHistorian
I figured something like that must be.
@RichtheFightHistorian
Still very good documentary.
@@davidsandall Thanks ,David.
Very underrated smokin joe true great for me 👍
Bravo, Rich! Another masterpiece. You are still winning on all of my score cards. The best of TH-cam all the way!
Thank you, emokellen, I appreciate it.
小学生の時、担任の先生がボクシング好きで このビッグファイトのTVを 授業中に皆に見せてくれました。白黒テレビでしたが 眩しいライトと 漆黒の汗に光る肌の2人のファイトに感動して夢見る思いでした。
この時のフレイジャー選手は最高に輝いてました。
Punch output wow
Thanks for the amazing video Rich ❤
Sure thing, John.
Joe Frazier is my favorite boxer. Very hard working.
Wonderful documentary Rich ! Lots of research and hard work involved much appreciated buddy.
Thanks, Kim. Yes, this one took awhile.
What a story. I loved Smokin Joe. I remember as a teen growing up
Watching on a small black and white TV on my front porch in Brooklyn those fights. He had such a clean short fast tight left hook. God bless and thanks Rich
My pleasure, Christopher.
Nice! - Smokin' Joes episode was overdue
I was a little kid when Joe Frazier was about past his prime. I personally think Frazier was never the same after the first Ali fight. It took a big chunk out of his prime years. After the 3rd Ali fight, he was finished as a serious contender. I did love his fighting spirit. It's a shame that Frazier hated Ali for all of those years, but I totally understand. Ali was not nice to his opponents and knew how to hit (not literally) their nerves.
Ali crossed the line. He called Frazier a gorilla, and people laughed. Howard Cosell called a football player a 'monkey' on MNF, and was excoriated.
Ridiculous double standard.
@@TheBatugan77 shaddup 🤡
@@marcus.g.4273
Shovit.
I really like 'ol Frazier, he never got the big kudos he deserved and rightfully earned, you da man Fraiz! ;-)
Love me some Smokin Joe, Amazing Rich
Thank you, Open1
All salute Rich the Fight Historian the undisputed King of boxing channels on TH-cam no easy feat.
this is one of my favorite shows on earth. thank you very much for what you do rich, i appreciate you.
Hey thanks, Robert.
Brought me to tears.
I have a huge amount of respect and love for Joe Fraser.
thank you Rich for this informative piece..... and the extended fight footage. heavyweight contests in that era were such wars, and it's not surprising to see how f*cked up those boxers were in later life, with the exception of George Forman. brutal, I but can't help but be impressed....
Thanks, Rich!
My pleasure, Jim.
Rich is back at it uploading the best historical boxing content on here as always. Hands down please. Hope you and family are well brother.
Hey thanks, Matthew. Hope all is good with you as well.
Thanks for this one Rich 🎉💢🔥💥✌️💯
My pleasure, outie
thanks for this video joe was great & beast
My pleasure.
nice work as usual Rich, thanks!
Thank you, Ovcharka.
I love Joe Frazier 🥊
Frazier is my favorite heavyweight! Not only his style (Smokin'!) but above all his heart. You can just tell this is an awesome dude. The fact he did all he did for Ali only to call him every horrible insult imaginable (his kids were even bullied, and he received death threats) and never once did he bring up everything he did for him, and that tells you all you need to know about the man. Lastly, I have to give a shoutout to his trainer and the clip at 23:54. I feel for this guy when he answers the reporter about everyone thinking their entitled to *his* money that he earned the hard way. As if he should be ashamed to have made some dough. People are pathetic. "And I'm not givin' up nothin'." Hell yea bro, nor should you have too.
LFG fans of Rich’s channel and scholars of the sweet science. Joe Frazier time.
Right on, Gerald.
The more I learn about Joe the more I admire him. A real champion of the people.
Another EXCELLENT doc.
Let me tell you when Frazier got smokin, that hook was quick and had tremendous snap.
They talk about Mt Rushmore chins. But when it comes to a Mt Rushmore of will and determination, Joe as well as Ali, would definitely be carved in.
Reliving that 1rst fight, you realize how brutal it was. Both fighters lost a couple year off that fight.
Personal observation. I know that knock down of Ali was a good shot, but that shot at the 49:02 almost broke Ali's neck. Even Joe thought he would fall.
Dream match-up, Frazier vs Marciano. What a fight that wouldn't have been. Id go with Frazier. Just too big.
Always liked and respected Joe Frazier. He was a class act, he always gave 100%. In conducting himself as a gentleman. He also have one of the most underrated left hooks in the history of boxing. He was small for a heavyweight and that eventually caught up with him. He had tremendous heart like all great champions. And just a great guy. And he totally lived the hardships of being a black American of his time. You are a great man Joe. And a great former champion. God bless you sir!
“ what is happening in his head I wish I knew” but his brain doctor knows sometimes these fights are sad
Best channel on youtube...thank you so much bro.
Hey thanks, Ali.
I am still in disbelief as to how Frazier got smoked twice, so easily, by George Foreman...
The only boxing t-shirt i printed myself says
" smokin' ",
Joe's picture underneath.
That was a sledgehammer from Quarry that hit Joe at 10:31. Frazier was a beast!
If you look closely at Cloverlay sponsoring group photo, I believe you can see Joe Hand Sr, early investor, friend , sometimes sparring partner and quality fight promoter.
Rip legend ♥️
One of the best documentary I’ve seen definitely the best one of Joe‼️Once again you hit a home run. 🫵🏽
Thanks very much,
Xxxx Big Rich
The combination that Quarry hit Frazier with at the 1:30 mark was a beauty. What a fight that was.
Interesting personal story.
In 1972 at ten years old.
I ran away from home i lived in Victoria BC Canada.
My father caught up to me Spokane Washington.
My father and I had a rare disagreement.
I was a stubborn kid my father called the Philadelphia gym and finally convinced them his stubborn son was headed to Philadelphia
I was hitch hicking and the family that picked me up convinced me my family would be worried about me and kindly had me call my father.
This family stayed with me in Spokane Washington until my father arrived and took me home.
My father wasn't mad at me but extremely worried about me.
I realised what i had done . How extremely selfish my actions where.
My relationship with my father was extremely close, he recently passed,
I was blessed to have such a great father and mother.
Of Smokin Joe Frazier called my father to make sure I was found safe and sound.
My father put me on phone with Mr Frazier.
Mr Frazier with kindness explained that my actions worried many people.
He was gentle and kind with me.
Then I met his son briefly when ge demolished Wille DeWitt of Canada.
I ened my boxing at 17 years old.
Cheers
Cool story, my condolences on losing your father. You met Marvis or Bert Cooper? Cooper knocked out Dewitt.
You're correct smokin Bert Cooper.
Best intro to a boxing documentary I have ever seen. That first 60 seconds makes Joe look like one of the greatest, which he was!
Thank you, racoobi.
TH-cam has been deleting comments I leave for some reason but I left one yesterday talking about how great this doc was. They're all great I watch em all but this one was extra great. Thx rich
My pleasure, kuwaitisnotadeployment, good to hear from you.
Oba Carr from Detroit would be a good documentary. In the mid to late 90's gave all three welterweight champs good fights despite losing to Delahoya, Trinidad, and Ike Quartey.
Great content Rich, thank you. RIP Smokin Joe
Sure thing, Steve.
Best channel on youtube
Thanks so much, Alby
Brilliant documentary
Thanks, Chris.