Joe Frazier was an American professional boxer and former World Heavyweight Champion with a net worth of $100,000 at the time of his death in 2011. Known as “Smokin’ Joe,” he competed professionally from 1965 to 1981 and became the first fighter to defeat Muhammad Ali, holding the undisputed heavyweight title from 1970 to 1973. Frazier finished his career with 32 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw.
- Joe Frazier Net Worth: $100,000
- Date of Birth: January 12, 1944
- Place of Birth: Beaufort, South Carolina
- Nationality: American
- Career: professional boxer
Early Life
Joseph William Frazier was born on January 12, 1944, in Beaufort, South Carolina, the fourth of children in a sharecropping family. Raised in rural poverty, he began working on farms at a young age and later moved north to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, seeking better opportunities.
Amateur Boxing
Frazier had a standout amateur career, winning three Golden Gloves Heavyweight Championships between 1962 and 1964. In 1964, he earned Olympic gold in Tokyo after stepping in as a replacement and defeating Germany’s Hans Huber in the final. His amateur record was 38-2.
Professional Career
Frazier turned professional in 1965, winning his debut fight by first-round technical knockout. A training accident left him legally blind in his left eye, but he trained under Eddie Futch, developing his signature bob-and-weave style. He quickly rose through the ranks with victories over notable fighters like Buster Mathis, Manuel Ramos, and Oscar Bonavena.
World Heavyweight Champion
In 1970, Frazier defeated Jimmy Ellis to win the WBA World Heavyweight title. He defended it successfully, including a victory over Bob Foster. His most famous fight came in March 1971, when he faced Muhammad Ali in the “Fight of the Century” at Madison Square Garden, winning by unanimous decision.
Later Career
Frazier lost the title to George Foreman in 1973 but continued fighting, including two more bouts against Ali:
- 1974: Non-title fight – Ali won
- 1975: “Thrilla in Manila” – Ali won by TKO
He retired in 1976, briefly returned in 1981, then retired permanently.
Life After Boxing
After retiring, Frazier ran a boxing gym in Philadelphia, formed the Smokin’ Joe Frazier Foundation to support troubled youth, and even appeared as himself in The Simpsons. He also pursued music, forming Joe Frazier and the Knockouts, releasing several singles.
Personal Life
Frazier married Florence Smith in 1963; they divorced in 1985. He had five children with her and several more from other relationships. His children, including Jacqui Frazier-Lyde, followed in his boxing footsteps.
Death
In late 2011, Frazier was diagnosed with liver cancer and passed away on November 7, 2011, at age 67. His funeral was attended by sports legends including Muhammad Ali, Don King, and Magic Johnson.
Joe Frazier Net Worth
Joe Frazier net worth was estimated to be $100,000 when he died in 2011.
Author: Andrew Walyaula
Andrew Walyaula is a seasoned multimedia journalist. Email: [email protected]
