RIP Smokin' Joe

Smokin Joe Frazier, 1944-2011

Every now and then someone famous dies that is above our mockery. No, not Chris Henry or Corey Haim, or Steve Jobs. But it does happen, and this is one of those rare moments.

Smokin Joe was from Philly, which despite irrational booing from fans, countless race riots, Marvin Harrison's gun collection, the Broad St. Bullies, Temple University, a dog-fightin pothead and sandwich blood feuds, is described as the City of Brotherly Love.

[Insert other facts about Joe growing up here]

[Insert boxing rise stories here]

Then came time for Joe to fight Cassius Clay. Cassius had turned to Islam and black power and berated Smokin Joe before their fights. Taunting him by calling him a gorilla and an Uncle Tom, certainly descriptions which did not fit Joe Frazier. He let his fists do the talking, and even though he did not get the better of their battles, many believe their final bloody fight was the beginning of the end for Ali's steady hand.

[Insert stuff about losing all his money]

[Insert stuff about broke Frazier living in his boxing gym]

Yeah, that dude right there deserves some admiration today. Especially since PA sports is currently home to a rapist, a pedophile, a dog-killin son-of-a-bitch, a bunch of old men covering for a pedophile, and the Phillies. Thanks Joe.