These days when I think of fight fan fashion my mind automatically
takes me to a combination of bad denim and 90s leather, tight t-shirts,
head to toe kappa trackies and cross-trainers. They're not an overly
glamorous bunch, but it hasn't always been the case. Through the eyes
of LIFE Magazine photographer Billy Ray and John Shearer, I'd like you to cast your mind
back to New York in the 1970s. A time where Cassius Clay aka Muhammad
Ali was re granted his boxing license after years of suspension due to
refusing to step forward when called for duty in the Vietnam War. A
time where the so called "Fight of the Century" took place between Ali
and Joe Frazier with Frazier flooring Ali in the 15th round at Madison
Square Garden.
The fight was from all accounts amazing, but by the looks of some of images from the time no where near as amazing as some of the pimped out outfits
of the audience. Check out some samples of images from and
leading up to the fight and for the fight fans amongst you check out
this footage of the 15th round from the legendary bout.
Muhammed Ali vs Jo Frazier (Round 15)
Madison Square Garden 1971