Smokin' Joe. The Life of Joe Frazier

This gripping biography of Joe Frazier delves into his life beyond the famous rivalry with Muhammad Ali, which captivated boxing fans and left a lasting impact on American sports and society. Frazier's story is far more complex than merely being known as Ali's opponent. Acclaimed sports writer Mark Kram, Jr. provides an in-depth portrayal, beginning with Frazier's upbringing as the youngest of thirteen in a small farmhouse, facing the harsh realities of the Jim Crow South. At age fifteen, he moved north to Philadelphia to pursue boxing. Kram traces Frazier's journey through his iconic fights against Ali and George Foreman, highlighting how he became viewed as the anti-Ali by blue-collar America. The narrative also explores Frazier's retirement in 1981, his relationship with his son Marvis, and the complexities of his home life, including the lingering influence of Ali on his thoughts. This richly textured account not only chronicles Frazier's boxing career but also serves as a powerful commentary on race and class in America. With unparalleled depth and access, this biography promises to be the definitive account of a significant American figure whose life was shaped by conflict and whose legacy endures.