Frazier, nicknamed "Smokin' Joe", spent the last of his days receiving hospice care after being diagnosed with the condition just over a month ago.

A statement from the Frazier family read: "We, the family of the 1964 Olympic boxing heavyweight gold-medallist, former heavyweight boxing champion and International Boxing Hall of Fame member Smokin' Joe Frazier, regret to inform you of his passing.

"He transitioned from this life as 'One of God's Men', on the eve of November 7, 2011 at his home in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

"We thank you for your prayers for our father and vast outpouring of love and support.

"Respectfully, we request time to grieve privately as a family.

"Our father's home going celebration will be announced as soon as possible.

"Thank you for your understanding."

During an illustrious career, Frazier only lost to heavyweight greats Muhammad Ali and George Foreman.

He is best remembered for a trilogy of fights with Ali – including the "Fight of the Century" in 1971, in which he inflicted Ali's first professional defeat, and the "Thrilla in Manila" in 1975 – as well as for his heart and devastating left hook.

As a replacement for the injured Buster Mathis, who had beaten him in the trials, Frazier won his gold medal at the 1964 Olympics in Tokyo, beating Germany's Hans Huber in the final. 

"Like so many people around the world, I was saddened to hear of the passing of Joe Frazier," said Scott Blackmun, chief executive of the United States Olympic Committee.

"One of the greatest boxers of all time, Frazier was an Olympic champion and an American icon.

"On behalf of the U.S. Olympic Committee, I offer my most sincere condolences to Joe's friends and family."

Read Alan Hubbard's tribute by clicking here.

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