The death of boxing legend Joe Frazier on Nov. 7 from liver cancer has had a strong impact on the boxing community. At the age of 67, Frazier was only recently diagnosed with liver cancer. Responses to the news began to flood his website, Twitter and Facebook. Although his last fight was in 1981, I think it is wonderful that the community has not forgotten him.
Response from Floyd Mayweather Jr.
Floyd Mayweather Jr. seems to have been deeply affected by the death of Joe Frazier. On his official Twitter account, Mayweather initially expressed his sadness about the passing of the boxing legend. Calling him “an all time great,” he mentioned his family. Floyd Mayweather Jr. later tweeted again and offered to “pay for his [f]uneral services.” I did not expect Floyd to react so strongly to the news or make a generous offer to help the family.
Response on Twitter
Floyd Mayweather Jr. was not the only member of the boxing community to turn to Twitter. Many boxing champions and fans used the site to express their thoughts after hearing the tragic news. George Foreman posted, “Good night Joe Frazier. I love you dear friend.” Both Sugar Shane Mosley and Oscar De La Hoya posted their thoughts about Joe Frazier. Even USA Boxing remembered the legend.
Boxing legends were not the only people who were affected by the death of Joe Frazier. Even Jason Alexander remembered the fighter fondly. Shaq referred to him as the “great” Joe Frazier while LeAnn Rimes called him “amazing.” Celebrities have not neglected Joe Frazier’s son in their thoughts, and many have sent their condolences to him though Twitter.
Response on Facebook
After his management team urged people to use Facebook, fans have turned to Joe Frazier’s official Facebook page. There has been an overwhelming response from fans. Although his professional boxing career ended decades ago, they have reacted strongly to the news of his death. Reactions have ranged from watching his old tapes to wanting a statue created for the boxing legend. The memory of Joe Frazier will live on through his fans.
Lana started following boxing before Manny Pacquiao began his professional career. Follow her @Lana_Bandoim on Twitter.