I just watched HBO's new documentary Thrilla in Manila about the three classic boxing matches between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier. From 1971 to 1975 the Frazier/Ali rivalry transformed the world of sports. HBO's documentary, to my surprise, portrayed Ali as a villain who's mean spirited actions would haunt Frazier indefinitely. Ali used many derogatory terms to describe his once friend such as "gorilla", "ugly", "unintelligent", and even an "uncle Tom". Frazier who publicly supported Ali's decision to avoid the draft and even helped him get his boxing license back felt betrayed by these attacks. Frazier to this day is said to still hold a grudge. What a powerful documentary that shed a new light on one of the greatest boxers of all-time, Muhammad Ali. I lost a lot of respect for Ali after this documentary. It is a must watch for classic sports fans.
Top 5 Best Boxing Rivalries
1) Muhammad Ali vs Joe Frazier
2) Marvin Hagler vs Thomas Hearns
3) Jake Lamatta vs Sugar Ray Robinson
4) Mike Tyson vs Evander Holyfield
5) Oscar De La Hoya vs Shane Mosely
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