Joe Bugner, the former British heavyweight boxing champion who fought Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier and Frank Bruno, has died at the age of 75. The Hungarian-born fighter passed away at a care home in Brisbane, Australia, the British Boxing Board of Control confirmed.
Bugner fled Hungary with his family in 1956 following the Soviet invasion and settled in the UK. He turned professional in 1967 and quickly rose through the ranks, stunning Henry Cooper in 1971 to win the British, Commonwealth and European heavyweight titles.
He faced Muhammad Ali twice, first in Las Vegas in 1973 and then for the world title in Kuala Lumpur in 1975, losing both on points. He also went the distance with Joe Frazier in London in 1973, despite being floored. Later in his career, he was stopped by Frank Bruno in the 10th round at White Hart Lane in 1987.
Bugner retired in 1999 with a record of 69 wins, 13 defeats and one draw. After settling in Australia in 1986, he won the national heavyweight title and finished his career with six consecutive victories. Promoter Frank Warren paid tribute, saying: 'Sad news to hear of the passing of Joe Bugner... a great man who will be missed.'
