Proposal to Move Joe Frazier Statue to Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps

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Philadelphia officials have introduced a proposal to move the 12-foot bronze statue of legendary boxer Joe Frazier from its current location in South Philadelphia to the base of the iconic Philadelphia Museum of Art steps. The organizing group Creative Philadelphia plans to present the proposal to the Philadelphia Art Commission, arguing that placing Frazier's statue next to the landmark steps would better honor the boxer's deep connections to the city and its athletic legacy.

Why it matters

The proposed relocation of the Joe Frazier statue to the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps, a site long associated with the 'Rocky' statue, would bring greater recognition to the legendary boxer's contributions and ensure more people learn his story. However, critics argue the city must balance honoring local heroes with preserving the historic and emotional significance of the Museum steps themselves.

The details

The proposal comes after city leaders recently approved moving the original Rocky statue from the base of the Museum steps, leaving an open, high-traffic area that draws thousands of visitors each year. Creative Philadelphia's proposal highlights Frazier's deep connections to Philadelphia, noting that the boxer trained in the city and often ran the very steps that later became a movie icon. Supporters say the relocation would boost recognition for Frazier, who fought some of the sport's most legendary matches, while critics worry that swapping one monumental figure for another could dilute the cultural symbolism of the Museum steps.

• The Philadelphia Art Commission will vote on the proposal after Creative Philadelphia's presentation.
• If approved, the city would allocate funds estimated at roughly $150,000 toward relocating the bronze statue.

What’s next

The Philadelphia Art Commission will vote on the proposal after Creative Philadelphia's presentation. If approved, the city would allocate funds estimated at roughly $150,000 toward relocating the bronze statue.