Joe Frazier defended his world heavyweight titles against George Foreman

Date: October 10, 1972

Venue: National Stadium, Kingston, Jamaica

Frazier stance: orthodox

Foreman stance: orthodox

After winning a gold medal at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, George Foreman seemed destined for greatness as a pro boxer. He turned pro in the summer of 1969, and in just his fourth outing he stopped Chuck Wepner. For the next three years, Foreman stayed busy, fighting a steady stream of journeymen, with George Chuvalo the main name on the list. By January 1973, he had a record of 37-0, with 34 of those wins coming inside the distance. His 38th fight would be against world champion, Joe Frazier in Jamaica.

Joe Frazier won his Olympic gold medal at the 1964 games in Tokyo, overcoming a broken thumb in his semi-final bout. He turned pro a year later, and racked up 24 wins in a raw before facing Jimmy Ellis for the vacant world titles (Muhammad Ali had been stripped of his titles in a decision that had nothing to do with boxing) in February 1970. Ellis retired in the fourth. Frazier went on to make four defences before sharing a ring with Foreman, including his first fight with Muhammad Ali in March 1971. This dramatic points win over Ali propelled Frazier to the ranks of all time greats in the heavyweight division.

Frazier started his fifth world titles defence as a 3:1 favourite. Foreman was several inches taller, and had a reputation as a very hard puncher, but Foreman had beaten better opposition, especially after his famous victory over Ali.

For an in depth look at their respective records, visit:

Joe Frazier - https://boxrec.com/en/box-pro/147

George Foreman - George Foreman - https://boxrec.com/en/proboxer/90

Please note this video is silent because someone from Hollywood bought the copyright to the commentary.