Continuing our look at the biggest fights in the Heavyweight division we are entering into the golden era of the 1970’s Joe Frazier (Champion) v s Muhammad Ali 1 Date 8th March 1971 Location – Madison Square Garden, NY USA The 'Fight of the Century' between Joe Frazier and Muhammad Ali in 1971 was one of the most highly publicised heavyweight boxing matches. It was the first time two undefeated boxers fought each other for the heavyweight title. The fight was broadcast to 35 foreign countries; promoters granted 760 press passes. Ali had been stripped of his title and suspended from boxing for refusing to be drafted into the army during the Vietnam War. Upon his return to the sport, he sought to reclaim his title. Frazier, who had won the title during Ali's absence, was determined to prove his worth. The fight was a brutal and intense affair, lasting the full 15 rounds. Both fighters gave their all, but it was Frazier who emerged victorious, scoring a unanimous decision win. Frazier managed to knock Ali down in the 15th round, which played a significant role in his victory. Despite the loss, Ali's performance was commendable. He demonstrated his remarkable skill and resilience, taking Frazier's best shots and still standing. The fight marked a significant moment in Ali's career, as it was his first professional loss. The 'Ali vs Frazier 1' fight was not just a sporting event, but a cultural phenomenon. It transcended the sport of boxing and became a symbol of the social and political tensions of the time. The fight was watched by millions around the world and remains one of the most iconic bouts in boxing history. Fight link This content is protected Muhammad Ali vs George Foreman (Champion) Date 30th October 1974 Location – Kinshasa, Zaire Another unforgettable clash was the 'Rumble in the Jungle' in 1974, featuring George Foreman and Muhammad Ali. The fight took place in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo) and was watched by an estimated 1 billion people worldwide. Ali, a former heavyweight champion, was attempting to regain his title from Foreman, who was undefeated and considered by many to be unbeatable. The fight was watched by an estimated 1 billion people worldwide, making it one of the most-watched live television broadcasts at the time. Ali used a strategy that later became known as the 'rope-a-dope'. This involved leaning against the ropes and covering up, allowing Foreman to throw punches, most of which were absorbed by Ali's arms and body. The aim was to tire Foreman out, while conserving his own energy. By the eighth round, Foreman was visibly exhausted. Ali seized the opportunity and launched a series of punches, culminating in a five-punch combination that sent Foreman to the canvas. The referee counted Foreman out, and Ali was declared the winner by knockout, regaining his heavyweight title. The 'Rumble in the Jungle' is considered a defining moment in Ali's career. It demonstrated his tactical genius, physical durability, and mental toughness. The fight also had significant cultural impact, as it took place in Africa at a time when African nations were gaining increased international visibility and respect. Fight link This content is protected Muhammad Ali (Champion) vs Joe Frazier 3 Date 1st October 1975 Location – Quezon City, Philippines The third and final bout between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, known as the 'Thrilla in Manila', took place on 1st October 1975 in the Philippines. This match is considered one of the greatest boxing matches in the history of the sport. Ali and Frazier had previously fought twice, with each claiming a victory. The 'Thrilla in Manila' was the tie-breaker and was a brutal test of endurance and will. The fight was scheduled for 15 rounds, but it ended after 14 rounds when Frazier's trainer, Eddie Futch, refused to let Frazier continue due to the severe damage he had sustained. Ali was declared the winner by technical knockout (TKO). The fight was a brutal affair, with both fighters giving their all. Ali later stated that the fight was the closest thing to dying that he had ever experienced. Despite the intense rivalry, the fight cemented the respect between the two fighters. The 'Thrilla in Manila' had a significant impact on both fighters' careers. For Ali, it was a testament to his skill and endurance, solidifying his status as one of the greatest boxers of all time. For Frazier, despite the loss, his performance showcased his incredible heart and determination. Overall, the 'Thrilla in Manila' is remembered not only for its athletic spectacle but also for its human drama. It was a fight that pushed both Ali and Frazier to their limits and beyond, and it remains a defining moment in the history of boxing. Fight link This content is protected
