Thrilla in Manila – Ali vs Frazier – Watch the Entire Historic Bout

This truly unforgettable fight happened in Manila, the Philippines on October 1, 1975 between two of the greatest fighters to ever grace the boxing ring. The bout is considered by many boxing afficionados as the most brutal and relentless fight in boxing history.

There was no love lost between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier across the course of their careers with Ali in particular trash talking Frazier with the harshest, unrelenting tirades whenever he could.

As they grew older Ali softened and showed the great Frazier the respect he deserved and apologised for the treatment he gave his rival. The two boxing greats ultimately became good friends after almost killing each other in the 3 brutal fights they shared in the ring.

What were the 3 fights in the Ali vs Frazier trilogy?

The first fight

The first meeting between the two is often referred to as “The Fight of the Century. It was held at the legendary boxing venue of New York City’s Madison Square Garden on March 8, 1971. Both Ali and Frazier went into the fight undefeated for the heavyweight title.

As expected the bout was a serious fight which went the full 15 insane rounds of intensity with Joe Frazier being awarded a unanimous decision. The stunning left hook which Frazier floored Ali with in the final round perhaps put an exclamation point on his victory.

With the nature of the win not being a knockout there were always going to be a call for a rematch and so it proved.

The second fight

The rematch happened January 28, 1974 also at the legendary Madison Square Garden with the fight being known as “Super Fight II”. This time the fight was not for any world titles and Ali had learned from the first fight as the second edition played out quite differently.

Ali danced and moved and tied up Frazier on the inside where he had done the most damage in the first fight. Ali out-thought Frazier neutralising his most powerful weapons.

Again the fight was won by a unanimous decision this time clearly won by Ali but this time over 12 rounds. With the scores at 1-1 a trilogy seemed inevitable.

The third fight

The Thrilla in Manila happened in the oppressive heat and humidity of Quezon City, Philippines on October 1, 1975 and again was for the undisputed heavyweight championship of the world.

The bout was a 15 round contest and was the third instalment in the trilogy and if you have not watched it before we won’t ruin it by telling you the result. Watch and enjoy two genuine warriors go at it.

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