I am a huge boxing fan. One of the few left. UFC too, I guess anytime 2 guys consent to beating each other up for me to watch I have alot of respect for the athletes (real athletes).
Smoking Joe! Was a legendary fighter in an era with legendary boxers.
This guy fought George Foreman, Ali, Buster Mathis, Jerry Ellis.
His only 4 losses came to Ali and Foreman. (2 to each)
that says alot
I heard a story, before the Thrilla in Manilla, Ali was just being a jerk. Just the usual insults, and swipes at Joe in the media that Ali is famous for.
After the slugfest that ensued, he whispered in Frasiers ear "They told me you was all washed up, Joe"
Shows the heart of one man (Smokin Joe) and the grace of Ali, who has always caught a bad rap for being a jerk off due to his swagger.
Truly a loss.
Joe was always a class act, from start to finish.