The boxing world is in mourning following the death of Joe Bugner, the British-Australian heavyweight boxing legend, at the age of 75. Bugner, known for his formidable presence in the ring and a career spanning several decades, was a prominent figure who captured British, European, and Commonwealth heavyweight titles. He also famously appeared on the reality television show 'I'm A Celeb...' in 2009.

Born in Hungary, Bugner's family fled their communist homeland when he was six. He grew up in Cambridgeshire, UK, and initially excelled as a junior national discus champion. After losing his first professional fight in 1967, Bugner went on to win the next 18 bouts, setting the stage for a remarkable career.

In 1971, at just 21 years old, Bugner clinched the British, Commonwealth, and European heavyweight crowns by defeating the much-loved Henry Cooper on points. This victory, however, drew mixed reactions from home fans, and years later, Bugner expressed regret, believing Cooper might have narrowly won and lamenting that he ended Cooper's career. He retained his European title against Jurgen Blin but later lost his trio of belts to Jack Bodell.

Bugner twice shared the ring with the legendary Muhammad Ali. Their first encounter was in 1973 in Las Vegas, followed by a 15-round bout in Kuala Lumpur in 1975 for the WBA, WBC, and Ring heavyweight titles. Bugner lost both fights on unanimous points decisions but earned respect for