Fear was absolutely necessary. Without it, I would have been scared to death.

- Floyd Patterson

Cassius Clay must be beaten and the Black Muslims' scourge removed from boxing.

- Floyd Patterson

I've learned so much, so very much about myself in defeat. I've learned very little to nothing in victory.

- Floyd Patterson

The fighter loses more than his pride in the fight; he loses part of his future. He's a step closer to the slum he came from.

- Floyd Patterson

I've been knocked down more than any heavyweight champion in history.

- Floyd Patterson

I always say that in order to appreciate warm weather, you must experience cold. I wouldn't change one thing - all the embarrassing moments, the defe…

- Floyd Patterson

There is so much hate among people, so much contempt inside people who'd like you to think they're moral, that they have to hire prizefighters to do …

- Floyd Patterson

For if you train hard and responsibly your confidence surges to a maximum

- Floyd Patterson

A prizefighter who gets knocked out or is badly outclassed suffers in a way he will never forget.

- Floyd Patterson