Joe Bugner, a renowned figure in the boxing world, has died at the age of 75. The former British, European, and Commonwealth heavyweight champion passed away in a care home in Brisbane, Australia, as confirmed by a statement from The British Boxing Board of Control on September 1, 2025. Bugner was notable for his two bouts against the legendary Muhammad Ali, both of which he lost by decision.
A Legacy in the Ring
The British Boxing Board of Control expressed its condolences, stating, “It is with great sadness that the former British, European, Commonwealth heavyweight champion and world championship contender Joe Bugner has passed away.” Bugner’s career was marked by significant achievements, including victories over notable opponents such as Henry Cooper and Joe Frazier.
Former rival Frank Bruno, who faced Bugner in a highly publicized fight in 1987 known as the Battle of Britain, paid tribute to him. Bruno shared his thoughts on social media, reflecting on their time together: “RIP Joe Bugner. Just heard sad news of the passing of Joe, we spent quite a bit of time together around the time of my fight with him. He had a long career and fought many great heavyweights.” Bruno described Bugner as a “character” who played the role of a bad guy during their promotional events.
From Hungary to the Boxing Hall of Fame
Born Jozsef Kreul Bugner in Szoreg, Hungary, in 1950, Bugner’s family fled their homeland following the Soviet invasion in 1956, eventually settling in the United Kingdom. He began boxing as a teenager and quickly made a name for himself on the amateur circuit. By the age of 17, he had already claimed the ABA light heavyweight championship.
Bugner’s professional career took off when he defeated Henry Cooper at Wembley Stadium in 1971, capturing the British and Commonwealth heavyweight titles. He retired several times throughout his career, first in 1976, but made multiple comebacks, ultimately retiring for good in 1999 at the age of 48 after winning the WBF title.
Beyond the ring, Bugner contributed to the film industry, serving as a boxing adviser for Russell Crowe‘s film Cinderella Man and appearing in movies such as the 1994 action film Street Fighter. In 2009, he became a contestant on the reality television show I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!, exiting the competition after 16 days.
Promoter Frank Warren remembered Bugner fondly, stating, “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 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.”
Bugner’s contributions to the sport of boxing and his larger-than-life persona will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike. His passing marks a significant loss for the boxing community.
