Ex-heavyweight champ Joe Frazier has died

[The Straight Story]

Ex-heavyweight champ Joe Frazier has died

PHILADELPHIA - November 7, 2011 (WPVI) -- Late Monday night, the family of Smokin' Joe Frazier issued the following statement on the death of the former heavyweight champion to Action News:

"We The Family of the 1964 Olympic Boxing Heavyweight Gold Medalist, Former Heavyweight Boxing Champion and International Boxing Hall of Fame Member Smokin' Joe Frazier, regrets to inform you of his passing. He transitioned from this life as "One of God's Men," on the eve of November 7, 2011at his home in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. We thank you for your prayers for our Father and vast outpouring of love and support.

Respectfully, we request time to grieve privately as a family. Our father's home going celebration will be announced as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding. "

He beat Muhammad Ali in the Fight of the Century, battled him nearly to the death in the Thrilla in Manila. Then Joe Frazier spent the rest of his life trying to fight his way out of Ali's shadow.

http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/story?section=news/sports&id=8422638

[Electric Monk]

1. Yes (23 recs and counting)

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=439x2260781

R.I.P.

[MADem]

2. Awww, shit. I knew he was bad off, but that was faster than I thought. Nt

[GiveMeFreedom]

3. RIP Joe n/t