- George Chuvalo was a former three-time Canadian heavyweight champion.
- Chuvalo fought for the world title twice but came up short in his bid to become a world champion.
- Chuvalo’s most prominent opponent was Muhammad Ali as he challenged him for the world title in 1966.
George Chuvalo is considered one of the three best Canadian boxers of all time due to his stacked resume and his contributions to the Great White North’s growth in the sport. He was known for his toughness and durability, along with his one-punch knockout power.
The former three-time Canadian heavyweight champion was never knocked down in all of his 93 pro fights. Chuvalo could be at par with today’s top heavyweight boxers like Tyson Fury, Oleksandr Usyk, and Anthony Joshua as a favourite in online sports betting, especially when fans look at boxing odds.
But what are the highlights of Chuvalo’s professional career from 1956 to 1978? What are his record, net worth, and other key facts about him? See the details below:
George Chuvalo Boxing Record
Chuvalo’s boxing record is 73 wins, 18 losses, and two draws during his 22-year professional career. From 1956 to 1978, he competed and fought three of the greatest heavyweight champions: Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier and George Foreman.
In 93 fights George Chuvalo was never knocked down, yet after his boxing career he faced adversity and tragedy. Journalist and author Stephen Brunt talks about George's career in and out of the ring. Watch 'Boom Boom Chuvalo' on @CTVW5 tonight at 10/9c. pic.twitter.com/6hTDAneE0b
— CTV W5 (@CTVW5) November 24, 2023
How Many Times Did George Chuvalo Fight Muhammad Ali?
Chuvalo fought Ali twice during his career. They first faced each other in March 1966 for the WBC World Heavyweight title and the Canadian superstar lost by unanimous decision. Ali was famously quoted after this fight that Chuvalo was one of the toughest opponents he came across.
Six years later, in May 1972, the two had their rematch, and this time, they fought for the North American Boxing Federation Heavyweight title. But just like their first meeting, Chuvalo was handed a unanimous decision loss.
Where Did George Chuvalo Train?
Chuvalo first trained at the St. Mary’s Polish Roman Catholic Church. He moved to Earl’s Court boxing club to improve his skills and eventually represented the gym as one of his leading affiliates. The Ontario native also occasionally had his rounds and training sessions at Sully’s boxing gym.
When Did George Chuvalo Start Boxing?
At an early age, Chuvalo developed his love for boxing and began training at 14. He quickly made a name for himself and in just three years, he became an amateur national champion.
He was selected to represent Canada in the Olympics but begged off and pursued a career in the professional ranks. Chuvalo became the inaugural Canadian heavyweight boxing champion in September 1958 when he knocked out James Parker in the first round.
George Chuvalo Net Worth
Chuvalo’s estimated net worth is over $2 million. Most of his earnings were from his boxing career specifically from his first fight with Ali in 1966. After retirement, he also entered the entertainment industry and appeared in several movies and series in Canada.