Back when America still cared about boxing in the 1960s and 70s, Frazier's career was fought in the shadow of Ali. When Ali was relieved of his heavyweight titles because he refused to enter military service during the Vietnam War, Frazier became the new champion. Once Ali was reinstated, he and Frazier fought in two of the most historic matches in the sport. Frazier won the "Fight of the Century" at New York's Madison Square Garden in March of 1971. In 1975, Ali earned a TKO in the "Thrilla In Manila" when Frazier's swollen eye prevented him from making the 14th round.
Frazier may have been an intimidating presence in the ring--he was, after all, nicknamed "Smokin' Joe" because his punches tended to leave a puff of smoke on his gloves. But Ali, a worldwide figure with his larger-than-life personality, ridiculed Frazier for being more of a "white man's champion" in an era of Black Power. Frazier resented Ali for that for a long time.
Frazier kept the heavyweight title from 1970-73, until he lost it to George Foreman in a bout at Kingston, Jamaica. It was best known for ABC's Howard Cosell shouting "Down goes Frazier!" multiple times after he hit the canvas, which led to Foreman's second round knockout.
Boxing has devolved into a chaotic mess long after Frazier hung up his gloves. Too many anonymous champions in too many organizations. Pay-per-view pricing out average fans and casual viewers. champions' refusal to face a worthy opponent unless the money is right. The increasing popularity of Ultimate Fighting. Joe Frazier may not have floated like a butterfly or stung like a bee like his more famous rival, but he more than held his own in the ring.
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