Differences between Joe Frazier and Muhammad Ali
Joe Frazier vs. Muhammad Ali[edit]
Joe Frazier and Muhammad Ali were American professional heavyweight boxers whose paths crossed in three fights during the 1970s.[1] Their first bout in 1971, won by Frazier, was the first time two undefeated heavyweight boxers fought for the title.[2] Ali won the subsequent two fights.[2] The boxers presented contrasting physical attributes and fighting styles. Ali was taller with a longer reach, known for his speed and movement, while Frazier was a shorter, more compact fighter recognized for relentless pressure and punching power.[1][3]
Initially, the two boxers were friends. While Ali was suspended from boxing for refusing to be drafted into the military, Frazier provided him with financial support and advocated for the return of his boxing license.[4][5] Their relationship changed as they prepared to fight each other, with public insults contributing to personal animosity.[4][5]
Comparison Table[edit]
| Category | Joe Frazier | Muhammad Ali |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 5 ft 11.5 in (182 cm) | 6 ft 3 in (191 cm) |
| Reach | 73.5 in (187 cm) | 78 in (198 cm) |
| Stance | Orthodox | Orthodox |
| Fighting Style | A pressure fighter who used bobbing and weaving to get inside and attack the body and head.[3] He applied constant forward movement to wear down opponents. | Utilized speed, agility, and footwork to control distance and pace.[3] Often used a technique known as the "rope-a-dope" to tire opponents. |
| Signature Punch | Left hook. This punch was responsible for many of his knockouts, including a knockdown of Ali in their first fight. | Jab and right cross. He used a quick, sharp jab to set up other punches and control the distance from his opponents.[3] |
The Trilogy[edit]
Their first fight, held on March 8, 1971, at Madison Square Garden, was promoted as the "Fight of the Century."[1] Frazier won by a unanimous 15-round decision, handing Ali his first professional loss. Frazier effectively attacked Ali's body and landed a critical left hook in the 15th round that put Ali on the canvas.
The second fight, "Super Fight II," took place on January 28, 1974, also at Madison Square Garden.[2] Ali won by a unanimous decision after 12 rounds.[2] The fight was noted for a high number of clinches initiated by Ali. Before this match, the two scuffled during a television interview with Howard Cosell after Ali called Frazier "ignorant."[1]
The final bout, the "Thrilla in Manila," occurred on October 1, 1975, in the Philippines.[1] Ali won when Frazier's trainer, Eddie Futch, stopped the fight before the 15th round because of the severe swelling around Frazier's eyes.[1] Ali later stated that this was the closest he had ever come to dying.[4] Both fighters endured considerable physical punishment in a contest that saw momentum shift between them multiple times.[1]
References[edit]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 "wikipedia.org". Retrieved November 23, 2025.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 "wikipedia.org". Retrieved November 23, 2025.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 "quora.com". Retrieved November 23, 2025.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 "quora.com". Retrieved November 23, 2025.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 "youtube.com". Retrieved November 23, 2025.
