March 8th 1971 - Fight Of The Century

Johnny Griffin follow-up.

'I worked with Joe even in 1969. He was much quicker, not just in punching, but in
sliding and avoiding punches. That little bit of movement makes a big difference.
Now, he doesn't move as quick, and he's getting hit with the full impact of the punch.
Ray (Anderson) and myself are hitting him with ease. That ankle is really
bothering him.'

'I worked with Joe in helping him prepare for Jerry Quarry and Dave Ziggy.
Back then, he was so quick and his punches came in fast. They really hurt.
Now, you can see them coming, so you have a moment to brace yourself and adjust.
'Joe was better in 1969, no doubt. Ask any of us guys.'

Asked for a fight prediction;

'If you asked me who would win last year (before the Jimmy Ellis fight and ankle injury),
I would say Joe wins easy over Muhammad Ali.
Most likely by a knock-out within 7 or 8 rounds.

But now, I still will say Joe, but not so easy. Probably by a solid decision. But he's going to get hit much more, which may take a little out of him.

 

That to me was the most anticipated sporting event of all time. I watched via CCTV at Boston College's Robert Athletic Center. Think of it: Clay and Frazier were, undefeated Heavweight Champions (in my book both linear), Olympic champions in the same division, had the best trainers, both men guaranteed $2.5mil etc. etc.. I was the only person rooting for Joe Frazier. I bet $25 on Joe with a friend. Clay showed amazing heart. Sadly, it was in this fight that he found out he could really take a punch.