George Chuvalo facts for kids

Quick facts for kids George Chuvalo CM
Chuvalo in April 2010
Statistics
Real name	Jure Čuvalo
Rated at	Heavyweight
Height	6' 0"
Reach	82 in
Born	(1937-09-12) September 12, 1937 (age 87) Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Stance	Orthodox
Boxing record
Total fights	93
Wins	73
Wins by KO	63
Losses	18
Draws	2

George Louis Chuvalo (born September 12, 1937) is a famous Canadian former professional boxer. He was a five-time Canadian heavyweight champion. He also fought for the world heavyweight title twice.

Chuvalo is best known for his incredible toughness. In 93 professional fights, he was never knocked down. He fought against some of the greatest boxers in history, including Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, and George Foreman. In 1995, he was welcomed into the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame for his amazing career.

A Champion in the Making

George Chuvalo was born in Toronto, Ontario, on September 12, 1937. His parents, Stipan and Katica, were immigrants from a region that is now part of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Chuvalo started boxing as a teenager. In May 1955, he became the Canadian amateur heavyweight champion. He won by knockout (KO) in the first round. He had a perfect amateur record of 16 wins and 0 losses, with all wins coming by knockout.

In 1956, Chuvalo became a professional boxer. He made a big splash in his first professional event. He knocked out four different opponents in a single night to win a tournament at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto.

Throughout his career, Chuvalo was consistently ranked as one of the top ten heavyweights in the world.

Famous Fights Against Muhammad Ali

Chuvalo is well-known for his two tough fights against the legendary Muhammad Ali. He fought Ali for the full number of rounds both times but lost the judges' decision in each match.

Their first fight was on March 29, 1966, at Toronto's Maple Leaf Gardens. It was for Ali's world heavyweight title. After the long and difficult match, Ali said of Chuvalo, "He's the toughest guy I ever fought."

A Tough and Respected Fighter

Chuvalo fought and defeated many top-ranked heavyweights during his career. Some of his famous wins were against Jerry Quarry and Cleveland Williams.

Even in his losses, Chuvalo showed amazing strength. He only lost two fights because the referee stopped the match. This happened against boxing legends Joe Frazier and George Foreman. In both cases, Chuvalo was still on his feet and ready to fight. His record of never being knocked down in 93 professional fights is a testament to his strength and determination.

Life Outside the Ring

After his boxing career, George Chuvalo appeared in several movies. He had acting roles in films like The Fly (1986) and Prom Night III: The Last Kiss (1989).

His famous 1966 match against Muhammad Ali was the focus of a 2003 documentary film called The Last Round: Chuvalo vs. Ali.

Chuvalo is also honored for his connection to his family's heritage. In 2011, a statue was put up in his honor in Ljubuški, the town where his parents were born.

In 2019, the George Chuvalo Neighborhood Centre opened in Toronto. The center offers fun programs for children and young people.

Overcoming Hardship and Helping Others

George Chuvalo faced many difficult challenges in his personal life. He experienced great family sadness that led him to a new purpose. He began traveling across Canada, speaking to students and community groups. He shared his life story to warn young people about making poor choices and to encourage them to live healthy lives.

For his amazing boxing career and his work helping communities, Chuvalo has received many honors. In 1998, he was made a member of the Order of Canada, one of the country's highest awards. In 2005, he received a star on Canada's Walk of Fame. In 2013, he was given the key to the city of Toronto.

Professional Boxing Record Summary

See also

In Spanish: George Chuvalo para niños