I think both Frazier and Norton would still be tough even for 60s Ali. Gun to my head I think Ali's faster legs and more movement in the 60s could be enough.
An absolute warrior who unfortunately came along at the general same time as the GOAT but who gave that GOAT hell and plenty of payback for the way that GOAT mistreated him.
Frazier was a great, great fighter ... too small to be all time top ten heavyweight H2H but absolutely top ten P4P ... then keep in mind he fought most of his career w compromised eyesight, insane for a small swarmer ... an amazing warrior.
It is so rare for a HW to represent the very best of his style on film. I think that Joe might be the only one - i'm not sure there's a better pressure fighter on film at any weight, ever. The loping pressure, the absurd toughness, the punching power, the absolute identity, there are some candidates but I think he's the best of his kind on film. I don't even think Joe Louis can lay claim to such a thing.
Do you think Frazier was a better pressure fighter than Duran or do you not consider Duran a pressure fighter?
Given you wrote - "I'm not sure there's a better pressure fighter on film at any weight, ever" - I'm curious, how would you categorise Duran's fighting style, if not pressure fighter?
When you watch the films, Frazier’s one of those guys who makes you literally feel the pain of his opponent. Even in your wildest, most fanciful dreams, you would never think that you’d have a hope against him. It seems he isn’t one of the names that comes up most often when talking intimidators but if any his opponents weren’t actually intimidated at the prospect of facing Joe - well, my hat goes off to them. I’d be shitting bricks.
Remember Foreman’s description of the very glee you referred to, describing Joe during his first fight vs Quarry? - hilarious but right on the money.
I’m always wary of people who employ facts and logic. They’re not to be trusted and should be avoided at all costs.
I couldn’t find a mirror handy but I did just look into a brutally honest puddle, the next best thing: - This content is protected