Canadian boxing great George Chuvalo has died at the age of 89, according to several published reports.
The cause of Chuvalo’s death – which occurred on his birthday – was not immediately known.
The World Boxing Council (WBC), which sanctions international boxing matches, posted a tribute to the Toronto-born fighter on its website Saturday.
“Widely regarded as ‘Canada’s greatest warrior,’ Chuvalo leaves an indelible legacy in the sweet science, defined by his unrelenting courage and legendary iron chin,” read the WBC tribute.
“WBC President Mauricio Sulaimán and the entire Green and Gold family extend their deepest condolences, thoughts, and prayers to George’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
Chuvalo was a five-time Canadian heavyweight champion who twice fought for the heavyweight championship of the world, including against Muhammad Ali, whom he challenged for the world title in 1966 at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto. Ali went the distnace to win the 15-round bout, later calling Chuvalo the toughest guy he ever fought.
Chuvalo, best known for never having been knocked down in any of his 93 fights, finished with a professional record of 73 wins, 64 by knockout, 18 losses and two draws. He was inducted into the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame in 1995. He was appointed a member of the Order of Canada in 1998 and received a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2005.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford shared his thoughts and condolences in a social media post Saturday night.
George Chuvalo was a heavyweight boxing legend, a family friend and a Canadian icon. My thoughts are with all of George’s family and loved ones as we mourn his passing.
— Doug Ford (@fordnation) September 13, 2026
“Rest well Champ you faced so many heartbreaking challenges throughout your years on earth…Thank you for opening so many doors for me,” former amateur boxer and three-time Gold Glove Champion Spider Jones wrote in a Facebook post.