In 1970, Muhammad Ali was permitted to fight again. With the assist of a state senator, he was given a certificate to box in Georgia as at that time it was the single state in America with no boxing commission. In 14 October 1970, he bunged Jerry Quarry on a cut after three sturdy rounds. Soon after the Quarry fight, the New York State Supreme Court ruled that Muhammad Ali had been unfairly deprived of a boxing license. So, once again capable to fight in New York, he bravely fought Oscar Bonavena at Madison Square Garden in December 1970. And after a strong 14 rounds, Muhammad Ali stopped Bonavena in the 15th, paving the way for a title fight in opposition to Joe Frazier, who was himself undefeated at that time.

On March 8, 1971, Mr. Ali and J. Frazier met in the ring at Madison Square Garden. Undoubtedly, that fight, famous as ‘”The Fight of the Century,” was one of the most excitedly expected bouts of the entire time and remains one of the utmost renowned. It marked two experienced, unbeatable fighters, both of whom had rightful claims to the heavyweight crown. The fight lived up to the excitement, and then Frazier punctuated his victory by flooring Ali with a solid left hook in the 15th and last round. Frank Sinatra took photos of that historic match for Life magazine. Famous boxing anchor Don Dunphy and actor and boxing enthusiast Burt Lancaster called the momentous action for the broadcast, which ultimately reached millions of people.