Joe Bugner, legendary heavyweight champion, dies aged 75 after historic fights with Ali and Frazier. Bettmann/Gettyimages
The Hungarian-born fighter, who later became a British and Australian citizen, passed away in a care home in Brisbane.
The British Boxing Board of Control confirmed his death, describing him as a world championship contender and extending condolences to his family.
Joe Bugner boxing career remembered
Bugner built a reputation during the 1970s as one of the most durable heavyweights in global boxing.
He went the distance twice with Muhammad Ali, losing on points in 1973 and again in a 15-round rematch in Kuala Lumpur in 1975.
Only months after his first clash with Ali, Bugner faced Joe Frazier in London, losing again on points but cementing his place among top contenders.
In 1971, Bugner defeated Henry Cooper on points to claim the British, European, and Commonwealth titles, a defining moment in his career.
Joe Bugner and European heavyweight battles
After claiming his titles, Bugner retained his European belt with victory over Jurgen Blin, but later lost all three belts to Jack Bodell in September of the same year.
He continued to test himself against elite fighters including Earnie Shavers and Frank Bruno, falling short but proving his resilience in the ring.
Bugner also scored notable victories over James Tillis and Greg Page, further strengthening his reputation as a durable opponent on the world stage.
Joe Bugner global boxing record
Across his professional career, Bugner recorded 69 victories, with 41 coming by knockout, alongside 13 defeats and one draw.
His longevity in the sport reflected both his physical durability and his ability to adapt to shifting eras of heavyweight boxing.
Bugner’s matches with global icons like Ali and Frazier remain a testament to his place in the sport’s history.
Reaction to Joe Bugner death
The British Boxing Board of Control paid tribute, saying, “It is with great sadness that the former champion has passed away.”
Tributes have since circulated across the boxing world, recognizing Bugner as a fighter who challenged the greatest names of his era.
Sports outlets including the BBC Sport and ESPN Boxing have also published retrospectives on his long career.
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Bugner’s career stretched across continents, leaving behind a legacy tied to both European and global boxing history.
