Joe Frazier Biography

Joseph William Frazier, born January 12, 1944, was an American professional boxer who competed from 1965 to 1981. He was nicknamed Smokin’ Joe and was known for his strength, durability, formidable left hand, and relentless pressure fighting style. Frazier became undisputed heavyweight champion in 1970 after emerging as a top contender in the late 1960s. Two years later, he lost his title to George Foreman. In 1975 Joe Frazier faced Muhammad Ali in their final world-title bout, which took place in Manila and ended in a loss for Frazier. He retired in 1976 after a second loss to Foreman but made a one-match comeback in 1981, retiring for good with a record of 32 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw. The Ring magazine named him Fighter of the Year in 1967, 1970, and 1971, and the Boxing Writers Association of America named him Fighter of the Year in 1969, 1971, and 1975.