Muhammad Ali thought there was only one fighter in boxing history who could stand next to him as the greatest of all time: Joe Frazier.
Ali, the late-great heavyweight icon, made this bold statement after his third and final fight with Frazier in October 1975. The bout, known as the "Thrilla in Manila," was the last chapter in their intense rivalry that spanned from 1971 to 1975.
The fight turned out to be one of the most grueling in boxing history. Ali won when Frazier's trainer, Eddie Futch, stopped the fight after 14 brutal rounds. After the match, Ali didn't hold back his praise for his rival.
"That was the closest thing to dying that I know. Why would I want to go back and see Hell? He's the greatest fighter of all times next to me."
Ali's career spanned 21 years, from 1960 to 1981. He captured the world heavyweight championship three times and racked up notable victories against boxing legends like Ken Norton, Sonny Liston, and George Foreman.
One of Ali's most memorable moments came in 1974 when he faced George Foreman in the "Rumble in the Jungle." But it was his trilogy with Frazier that seemed to leave the deepest impression on the champ.
After the Thrilla in Manila, Ali defended his world heavyweight title six more times. He lost to Leon Spinks in February 1978 but regained the WBA crown from Spinks just seven months later.
Ali's high regard for Frazier speaks volumes about the intensity of their rivalry. Despite their fierce battles in the ring, Ali's words show a deep respect for Frazier's skills and toughness.
Ali's statement cements both his and Frazier's places in boxing history. It's a testament to the impact these two fighters had on each other and the sport as a whole.
