You might remember the iconic Joe Frazier, often overshadowed by his legendary rival Muhammad Ali, finally getting his due recognition in HBO’s outstanding documentary “Thrilla in Manila” back in 2007. Now, the equally fantastic “I Am Joe Frazier” offers an even grander tribute, showering him with the admiration he rightfully deserves, albeit posthumously.
Joe passed away in November 2011 after a battle with cancer, but he’d probably be thrilled with this new film—and trust me, you’ll love it too.
Directed and written by Pete McCormack, this documentary is generously available for viewing now. It features insights from the likes of Thomas Hauser, Tim Witherspoon, George Foreman, Larry Holmes, Al Bernstein, and many more. There’s even archival footage of Ron Lyle woven in.
The story kicks off right at the beginning, shedding light on Joe’s challenging early years. The film labels it ‘Southern Uncomfort,’ capturing the struggles he faced. At 15, Joe was sent alone by bus to New York from Beaufort, due to “racial problems,” as he would recount. He ended up living with his aunt and working in a slaughterhouse, eventually joining a gym to shed some weight. It was there Joe realized he had a knack for boxing.
It was Yank Durham who discovered Joe’s potential, thus beginning Frazier’s remarkable career that captivated fans worldwide. Even if you know Joe’s journey, this film uncovers new aspects, reminding us of his greatness, humility, and authenticity.
A significant segment of the film delves into Frazier’s legendary rivalry with Ali, revealing some fascinating tidbits. Did you know that shortly before their ‘Fight of the Century’ at Madison Square Garden, Joe claimed a mysterious figure in white entered his dressing room? Despite tight security, this solitary visitor assured Joe he’d be forgiven if he ended Ali in that ring, a presence Joe believed to be divine.
George Foreman adds in the film that Joe was prepared to die rather than lose to Ali on that night in March 1971, where Frazier famously won by unanimous decision after 15 grueling rounds. Yet, somehow, he remained in Ali’s shadow. The match, described as one of the greatest ever, “halted the world” according to artist Richard T. Slone. In places like Northern Ireland, amid their own strife, people paused everything to watch.
Witherspoon calls it “the greatest fight of all-time,” one that Frazier indisputably won.
After their brutal bout, Joe was hospitalized mainly due to soaring blood pressure. The legendary rematch with Foreman awaited next, but before that, Joe and Ali faced off once more in the savage “Thrilla in Manila” in October 1975.
Michael Bentt, a fellow fighter, vividly describes how Joe’s water bottle turned “no longer water, but blood” as they battled to the bitter end. Joe, already blind in one eye, was pulled out by his trainer, Eddie Futch, before the 15th round, a decision Joe accepts without resentment. “I can see. I can walk; I can talk. I can have a good time,” he remarks, showing no anger about that day.
Joe Frazier continued fighting, taking on Foreman again in 1976 and later facing Jumbo Cummings in 1981, a memorable year for him and Ali for different reasons: Joe and Cummings fought to a draw, while Ali lost to Trevor Berbick. Transitioning to a trainer role, Joe’s story continued, with the film delving into the fates of his family members.
In 2001, Ali extended an olive branch, apologizing for the harsh words he once hurled at Joe, proposing an alliance if a holy war ever broke out. Joe, characteristically, rebuffed the apology. Despite this, a touching moment in 2001 finds the two old rivals together, leaning on one another, a testament to their complicated bond.
Their epic love-hate-respect dynamic never truly faded away, showcasing the depth of their connection.
And one last intriguing note: for all of Ali’s teasing, Joe Frazier could indeed carry a tune!
Make sure you find time to watch this remarkable documentary. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in the incredible tale of Joe Frazier.
