Joe Frazier is regarded as one of the greatest boxers to ever live. With a 32-4 boxing record, Frazier will forever be remembered for the greatest boxing trilogy of all time, Ali vs. Frazier. In this interview, Joe Jr. discusses his father’s legacy and the sport of boxing.
McElwain: What is your advice to anyone trying to make it in the sports world?
Frazier Jr: Decide early if you really want it bad and why. Keep a strong circle of people who will give it to you straight. Put all of your focus and energy into it.
McElwain: What is your view on your dad’s infamous fight trilogy against Muhammed Ali?
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Frazier Jr: That trilogy is, and will forever be, the greatest trilogy of fights boxing will ever see! Two men and warriors gave their all every time.
McElwain: What is your fondest memory of your dad?
Frazier Jr: The fondest memory of my father honestly was always seeing him take the time to interact and treat his fellow man and woman–not as fans–but as equals.
McElwain: When you were a college football player, was there any pressure to live up to the Frazier family name?
Frazier Jr: Yes, I did feel a lot of internal pressure to live up to the Frazier name. But that pressure was self-inflicted and was never cast down on me by anyone in my family.
McElwain: Describe boxing in one word.
Frazier Jr: “Brutal.”
McElwain: What do you hope your father will be remembered for?
Frazier Jr: I want my dad to be remembered exactly as he is remembered, which is ‘Smokin Joe.’ He was a beast in the ring, but he was the people’s champ, an average Joe, outside of the ring. He would break bread with you, talk, and sign autographs 24/7. He treated the janitor and CEO the same way–as equals.
McElwain: Jake Paul has been making a huge name for himself in the world of boxing. Do you view him as a real fighter?
Frazier Jr: I view any man who gets in the ring to battle as a real boxer. You cannot playbox. So, yes, there are different talent levels and abilities. But if you are in there and training for it, then you are a real boxer.
McElwain: Where do you see yourself in 30 years?
Frazier Jr: In 30 years, I will be 68. I see myself as a healthy, wealthy, and happy family man, husband, and grandfather, who continues to help youth in mind, body, and soul to maximize their potential. I am enjoying life and family, and seeing my children and their children enjoying the generation, wealth, and wisdom that my wife and I–among others–have helped them attain.
