Joe Frazier or Muhammad Ali, who was the champion in 1971?

My feelings exactly.

 

I think the concept of an Emeritus champion is suitable for these situations. Ali was the champion, but was unable to defend his title so became the Emeritus champion. Fraser won the title in his absence, and was the undisputed champion, but upon Ali’s return his Emeritus status cast some doubt on Frazier’s position, which thankfully was resolved when they fought.

 

The belt is only a symbol for the concept.

I see Terrell as the first alphabet HW champ. There was nothing wrong with him as a second champion but Ali was still the active champ at this time and there was no(boxing related) reason to crown a second champion.

 

But the WBA was the more stronger body back then, Ali had his license stripped from him on April 28 1967 following his refusal to accept military service by refusing to take the oath into the military, Ali was also arrested by the FBI, booked and fingerprinted that very same day, Draft Evasion was a Federal Offense during the Vietnam War. And one cannot box without a license, New York State was very powerful in 1967.

 

The one and only champ in 1971 was,, "Smokin Joe Frazier"

 

And that was a fact.

 

I say Mike Tyson

 

It was Feb 3 1970.