Joe Bugner has died aged 75. The former British, European and Commonwealth champion twice faced Muhammad Ali, losing both fights on points, and traded blows with some of the biggest names of his heavyweight era.
Pictured: Joe Bugner has died at the age of 75.
Former British, European and Commonwealth heavyweight champion Joe Bugner has died aged 75.
Bugner stepped into the ring with Muhammad Ali twice, losing both fights on points, and traded punches with some of the biggest names of his heavyweight era.
Earlier in his career he defeated Henry Cooper on points to become British, European and Commonwealth Champion in 1971.
Bugner's death was confirmed in a statement by the British Boxing Board of Control, which said: “It is with great sadness that we announce that former British, European, Commonwealth heavyweight champion and world title challenger Joe Bugner has passed away at his care home in Brisbane, Australia.”
The British Boxing Board of Control offers its condolences to Joe's family.
Pictured: Bugner shared the ring with Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier and Earnie Shavers.
After making his reputation with wins over Brian London and Chuck Wepner, Bugner defeated Cooper by narrow decision to win three major titles.
His reign ended with a points loss to Jack Bodell, but Bugner rebounded and finished the job by losing to Ali in Las Vegas in 1973.
Pictured: Bugner attacks Ali during their heavyweight bout in 1973.
Later that year, Bugner lost on points to Joe Frazier in London, and then lost a 15-round rematch with Ali in Kuala Lumpur in 1975 for the WBC heavyweight title.
He lost subsequent fights with Earnie Shavers and Frank Bruno, but won against respected opponents such as James Tillis and Greg Page.
Bugner's professional career ended with a record of 69 wins, including 41 knockouts, 13 losses and one draw.
Sourse: skysports.com
