Ali among boxing greats paying respect to Frazier

DAN GELSTON,AP Sports Writer

Joe Frazier was remembered as a great heavyweight champion and a city icon at a funeral attended my longtime rival Muhammad Ali.

Former heavyweight champions Ali and Larry Holmes and promoter Don King were among those to pay respects at the private funeral Monday. The 67-year-old Frazier died last week after a short battle with liver cancer.

The Rev. Jesse Jackson gave stirring remarks, asking fans to stand and “show your love” for Frazier.

For the only time in the more than two-hour service, Ali rose and vigorously clapped for his fallen rival. Wearing a dark suit and sunglasses, Ali held hands for assistance in and out of the Baptist church.

Mike Tyson, Donald Trump and actor Mickey Rourke sent videotaped messages of condolences.

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press

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