World boxing is paying tribute after the death of former British, European and Commonwealth heavyweight champion Joe Bugner, who passed away in Brisbane, Australia, at the age of 75.
The Hungarian-born fighter, who became a British citizen and later made Australia his home, built a career that saw him share the ring with some of the sport’s most celebrated names.
Bugner twice faced Muhammad Ali, first in Las Vegas in 1973 and again two years later in Kuala Lumpur in a world title bout for the WBA, WBC and Ring Magazine belts.
On both occasions he went the distance, losing on unanimous decisions, but his ability to match Ali across 15 gruelling rounds earned him respect across the sport.
Joe Bugner fought Muhammad Ali twice during his boxing career
|GETTY
He also fought Joe Frazier at Earls Court in 1973, only months after his first clash with Ali, and again showed his durability even in defeat.
Bugner’s greatest domestic triumph came in 1971 when, aged just 21, he defeated British hero Henry Cooper on points to claim the British, European and Commonwealth titles.
The victory was controversial at the time, not only because Cooper was a national favourite but also because Bugner’s cautious style drew mixed reviews from fans.
Yet it confirmed his arrival as a force in the heavyweight division during what is often described as boxing’s golden era.
Two months later, Bugner successfully defended his European crown against Jurgen Blin before surrendering his belts to Jack Bodell later that same year.
Across his long career, he also fought dangerous punchers such as Earnie Shavers and later crossed paths with Frank Bruno, but never managed to claim a world championship.
The British Boxing Board of Control confirmed the news in a statement on Monday.
“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," they said.
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
— Frank Warren (@FrankWarren) September 1, 2025
He also participated in the first fight I did on ITV - a great man who will be missed. I'm sending my regards…
"The British Boxing Board of Control passes on its condolences to Joe's family."
Bugner retired with a record of 69 wins, 41 by knockout, alongside 13 defeats and one draw.
Beyond the numbers, he was remembered as one of the few fighters able to live with Ali and Frazier over the distance, cementing his place among the toughest heavyweights of the 1970s.
Tributes quickly poured in. Promoter Frank Warren wrote: “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.”
Joe Bugner pictured back in 2010
|GETTY
Fans also celebrated Bugner’s legacy. One wrote on social media: “RIP Joe Bugner, boy could fight for sure.
"Took on Ali twice and lost on decisions. Also fought Cooper, Frazier, Shavers and Bruno. Was underrated.”
Another added: “He fought and tested the greats of the heavyweight division and has to be considered one of the best never to win a world title.”