Muhammad Ali is no longer with us but on this day 41 years ago, he showed why he will always be the greatest boxer. Coming up against Joe Frazier in their third meeting, plenty was at stake with the world heavyweight belt on the line.

The 25,000 who crammed into Manila’s Philippine Coliseum were in for a treat as both boxers showcased their extraordinary talent in what promised to be a fascinating battle.

Ali’s longer reach gave ‘Smokin’ Joe problems but the champion’s 15 block busting blows inside 45 seconds in the 14th round ultimately saw Frazier’s trainer, Eddie Futch, call time. Ali, who retained his belt, lauded his opponent by saying “He’s a real, real fighter.”

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Here’s other memorable sporting events that happened on this day:

1998: Ex-Arsenal boss George Graham becomes the new manager of Tottenham.

2000: Boxer Audley Harrison wins Great Britain’s 10th gold medal of the Sydney Olympics.

2005: Former New Zealand wing Jonah Lomu signs for Cardiff Blues.

2012: Defending champions England are knocked out of the World T20 after 19-run defeat to hosts Sri Lanka in their Super Eight match in Pallekele.