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Folley’s career started off with a bang earning him seventeen straight wins and a steady climb up the World Boxing Association rankings. By 1961, he was appearing in nationally televised fights, and the people of Chandler watched as the towns town's now famous resident beat every opponent he came into the ring with. He defeated former two-time champion Floyd Patterson, and by 1967 was ranked as the number one contender for the world heavyweight title. The thirty-three year old fighter had an outstanding record of seventy-five wins, which included 44 knockouts, 7 losses, and 3 ties. Back in his hometown of Chandler, the street he lived on while growing up was re-named Folley Street.
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In February of 1967 it was announced that Folley would have the opportunity to battle for the title. He would be up against Muhammad Ali, formerly Cassius Clay, at Madison Square Garden in New York City to fight for the heavyweight title. Folley immediately began a rigorous training schedule of long days and made plans for his trip to New York City. On March 1, the Chandler Jaycees sponsored a Folley appreciation dinner at the Garden Room of the San Marcos Hotel. After a brief tribute by the San Francisco Giants third baseman Jim Davenport, Folley was wished the best of luck. A few days later he was on his way to a New York resort to prepare for the upcoming fight.
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On March 22, Folley climbed into the ring to face ClayAli. Folley had the fight of his career, but Clay Ali was able to overtake him and was knocked out in the seventh round. The contender returned to his home in Chandler where he continued to be a leader for the black people of Chandler.
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