Tributes flow for Smokin' Joe
Published:Tuesday | November 8, 2011 | 5:18 PM
Tributes are flowing in for former world and Olympic heavyweight champion Joe Frazier, who died of cancer at age 67.
Frazier, also known as Smokin’ Joe, had been receiving hospice care after being diagnosed with the condition just over a month ago.
A statement from Frazier family said he died yesterday at his home in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Muhammad Ali said the world has lost a great champion. Ali further says he will always remember Frazier with respect and admiration.
Frazier is perhaps most widely known for three great fights with Ali, including the epic ‘Thrilla in Manila’ in 1975.
He was the first man to beat Ali in 1971, but lost his next two bouts with Ali.
George Foreman said Frazier was the most amazing fighter.
The American also fought compatriot Foreman, another of boxing's heavyweight greats. They met twice, Foreman winning on both occasions.
Former heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis says Frazier was one of boxing’s great.
WBC champion Vitali Klitschko said Frazier was a huge fighter, huge champion and a huge personality.
Frazier held the world title between 1970 and 1973. He retired in 1976 after again being beaten by Foreman. He then made an unsuccessful comeback in 1981, fighting only once before ending his career for good.
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