First man to beat Ali dies

Sports legend and former world heavyweight boxing champion Joe Frazier has died at the age of 67.

­The icon was diagnosed with incurable liver cancer just a month ago.

Frazier, who won the 1964 Olympic gold, was also included in the international Boxing Hall of Fame.

The American, known as Smokin’ Joe, became the first man to beat Muhammad Ali.

The bout, which was later called the “Fight of the Century,” took place in 1971.

“I will always remember Joe with respect and admiration,”
Muhammad Ali said in a statement. “My sympathy goes out to his family and loved ones.”

Frazier passed away at home in Philadelphia, surrounded by his family.

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