In Loving Memory :: Legendary Joe Frazier Passes

At the age of 67, legendary boxer Joe Frazier has passed. Frazier lost his battle with liver cancer. Known as Smokin’ Joe, Frazier was well-known for being an undisputed world heavyweight boxing champion, with a career that lasted from 1965 to 1976. During his career, Frazier and Muhammad Ali had an epic rivalry, with their first fight taking place at Madison Square Garden on March 8, 1971 (the famed “Thrilla in Manila” fight took place in 1975). Frazier also fought, George Foreman, Joe Bugner, Bob Foster, and many others. Frazier passed at his Philadelphia home, surrounded by family. Frazier’s family released the following statement:

“We The Family of the 1964 Olympic Boxing Heavyweight Gold Medalist, Former Heavyweight Boxing Champion and International Boxing Hall of Fame Member Smokin’ Joe Frazier, regrets to inform you of his passing. He transitioned from this life as “One of God’s Men,” on the eve of November 7, 2011at his home in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. We thank you for your prayers for our Father and vast outpouring of love and support. Respectfully, we request time to grieve privately as a family. Our father’s home going celebration will be announced as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding.”

Meanwhile, when the news hit, lots of athletes and celebrities shared expressions of sympathy on Twitter. Floyd Mayweather, Jr. Tweeted:

#TheMoneyTeam, though?

[NYTimes]