By Sam

November 10, 2011 11:05 AM | Link to this

Great story. If Mohammed Ali is the greatest fighter of all time, then Joe Frazier has to be #2!

By Roos33

November 9, 2011 5:35 PM | Link to this

Great story! The fights between Ali and Frazier are one of my first recollections of sports. I choose to be a fan of Ali over Frazier and that meant no disrespect to Frazier. It’s disappointing to read some of the blogs today supporting Frazier because when Frazier needed to hear those words no one stated them. Now that he’s gone we have a lot to say in Frazier’s honor at the expense of Ali. My point is – Ali or Frazier could never be what they are to society without the other! I thank God for both men for illustrating to me what competition and determination are when it comes to sports and to know that you don’t have to win every time to be a winner. Rest In Peace Mr. Joe Frazier – a job well done!

By Turf

November 9, 2011 11:49 AM | Link to this

Arch, Joe Frazier was always above Ali. He had class and like you say was a man’s man. I wish I could have met him too. Turf

By mark willis

November 9, 2011 10:46 AM | Link to this

Great article about an overlooked champ. I am a big Ali fan but always thought he did Frazier wrong and disappointed the two could not reconcile in later years. Frazier would walk over any heavyweight in the last 20 years.

By jd

November 9, 2011 8:28 AM | Link to this

Joe Frazier was always and will be forever, the better man. I find it ironically fitting that the mouth of the 60’s and 70’s who insulted so many is now forever silent.

By sayerofthings

November 9, 2011 8:27 AM | Link to this

A great story and yet another exhibit of your extraordinary skill as a story teller. Remarkably well written and joyful to read. Thank you, Mr. Archdeacon.

By Raoul

November 9, 2011 8:05 AM | Link to this

Nice article Tom. Ali was a great fighter and a huge symbol of the 60’s and 70’s. Unfortunately, he gobbled up all the press. The press glorified him and forced him down our throats. Meanwhile, Smokin’ Joe quietly showed a different American character that means a lot more to me than anything Ali ever did. I bet all takers that Joe would win that 1st fight and I got a lot of satisfaction when he did. After the Thrilla, Joe was asked what he thought of Ali’s ability to take a punch. Joe said “I hit him with shots that would have crumbled mountains and he still didn’t go down”. Both men are heroic for different reasons. For my sake, give me Smokin’ Joe over Ali any time. So long Joe, may you rest in peace.

By Randy

November 9, 2011 5:42 AM | Link to this

Great article about one of the greatest of all time! Joe was a mans man in the ring before the sport was ruined by Don King!!

By bill

November 8, 2011 11:58 PM | Link to this

Great story about Joe Frazier. It is tragic he had to fight the greatest draft evader who beat the rap because he had money outside the USA ALI.

By mike

November 8, 2011 10:28 PM | Link to this

great article that ties together history and boxing memories..remembering where i was during those times..

By Gerry

November 8, 2011 8:55 PM | Link to this

A great story that gives Smokin Joe his props without disrespecting Ali.