Former Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier rival Joe Bugner dies aged 75

Former British heavyweight boxing star Joe Bugner has passed away at the age of 75.

Bugner, who fought 83 times as a professional, took on Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier and Frank Bruno during a stellar career. His final fight came in 1999 before he retired with a record of 69-13-1.

Born in Hungary, Bugner moved to Britain in 1956 when his family fled following the Soviet invasion of his homeland. Bugner lost his debut fight to Paul Brown in 1967 but went on to outpoint Henry Cooper to win the British, Commonwealth and European heavyweight titles in 1971.

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Two years later, Bugner travelled to Las Vegas to take on Ali, losing a 12-round decision before welcoming Frazier to London just five months later. Bugner was dropped en-route to losing another decision.

Bugner went on to string together another eight victories in succession before meeting Ali again, this time for the heavyweight world title in Kuala Lumpur in 1975. Bugner was again defeated on points, this time over 15 rounds.

Bugner then announced his retirement from the sport but returned to domestic action within months, becoming British champion again by beating Richard Dunn before losing to another two greats of the sport in Ron Lyle and Earnie Shavers. In 1987, he met Bruno in a Battle of Britain but was stopped in the 10th round at White Hart Lane.

Bugner finished his career with six consecutive victories, reigning briefly as the Australian heavyweight champion having moved to the country in 1986 and being granted citizenship.

In a statement, the British Boxing Board of Control said: "It is with great sadness that the former British, European, Commonwealth heavyweight champion and world championship contender Joe Bugner has passed away at his care home in Brisbane, Australia. The British Boxing Board of Control passes on its condolences to Joe's family."

Promoter Frank Warren, meanwhile, added: "Sad news to hear of the passing of Joe Bugner, former British, European and Commonwealth Champion, and a man who went the distance with both Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier. He also participated in the first fight I did on ITV - a great man who will be missed. I'm sending my regards to his family. May he rest in peace."