53 years ago
Joe Frazier vs Muhammad Ali
Date: 8th March 1971
Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York, New York
Title: WBC & WBA World Heavyweight Titles
Promoter: Jerry Perenchio
Tv: Closed Circuit Television
Joe Frazier
(
26
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0
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0
)
Weight: 205 1/2 lbs
Muhammad Ali
(
31
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0
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0
)
Weight: 215 lbs
Ali challenged for Frazier's undisputed world heavyweight crown at Madison Square Garden in the fight known as "The fight of the century."
Frazier won a unanimous decision to retain the title. He knocked down Ali in the 15th round with a left hook.
Scores: Arthur Mercante 6-8 | Artie Aidala 6-9 | Bill Recht 4-11.
Referee Arthur Mercante described the following conversation he heard between Ali and Frazier at one point during the bout;
Ali: "You know, you're in here with the God tonight"
Frazier: "If you are God, you're in the wrong place tonight"