Alright Stevie Yes I'd say that if they'd have fought in 74, it's a tough fight but Joe could maybe get the win . But after the thrilla then that's it, Joe's done for. Norton stops him in around 8 then imo.
Good morning,Fergy! Joe once said that if someone had come up with the right offer,he'd have been quite willing to fight Ken in spite of the friendship. I think I read that in Ring Magazine.
Remember reading that someplace myself mate. I'm sure they could have locked horns with the right money and motivation.
Like others said, post Manilla it's almost a guarantee Norton wins. Frazier was done as an elite fighter after that. Early 70's would be too early for Norton as he was still developing his skill and wasn't quite world class. Frazier was firing on all cylinders tearing through the division while Norton was struggling with guys like Jose Luis Garcia. Best time would've been if you swapped Ali of the 2nd Ali/Frazier fight with Norton when both guys were in decent shape. That would be one heck of a fight. Gun to my head, I think Frazier scores a knockdown and wins a very competitive and close decision..
He might of beat the Frazier who fought Foreman that's the earliest point i could see Norton winning, but Frazier hits hard and i'm not overly convinced Norton could withstand the pressure and power of Frazier even that version.
Lol. Using Ken as a surrogate for Joe’s true arch enemy and target for his baddest intentions. That’s the ticket! If Joe took in that very mindset against Norton, ala the pathological hatred he took into the FOTC, I’d be extremely worried if I was Ken: - “Why, all of the sudden, do you want to literally kill me Joe? I thought we’s was cool.” Haha.
