8 Muhammad Ali Opponents Who Suffered Tragic Fates
6. Oscar Bonavena
Argentinian heavyweight Oscar ‘Ringo’ Bonavena was known as a wild-swinging puncher who earned his nickname by having a haircut similar to that of The Beatle’s drummer Ringo Star. Prior to competing against Muhammad Ali, Bonavena had been involved in 2 competitive bouts with Joe Frazier, both of which Frazier ultimately won via decision.
The Argentinian, who had a reputation for being outspoken, referred to Ali as a black kangaroo and a chicken in the build-up to the fight. The comments were in reference to the America’s refusal to fight in the Vietnam War. However, the remarks were apparently unable to throw the champ off his game as Ali was able to win the competitive bout via TKO in the 15th round. Ali took the opportunity after the fight to set the stage for his legendary bout with Joe Frazier by proclaiming, “I have done what Joe Frazier couldn't do--knocked out Oscar Bonavena. Now, where is he? I want Joe Frazier.”
Bonavena fought on for over 5 years after the bout but was never able to earn another shot at the gold.
Outside the ring, Oscar Bonavena had a reputation as a hard partier and womanizer, the latter of which ultimately led to his demise.
In 1975, Bonavena began having an affair with the wife of Mustang Ranch brothel owner Joe Conforte. The affair combined with the fact that Bonavena had bragged about his intent to take over the ranch, lead to Conforte banning his wife and the boxer from the famed brothel. Moreover, Conforte even ordered his guards to shoot the heavyweight pugilist if he showed up.
On May 22, 1976, Bonavena arrived at the ranch demanding to speak with Conforte and was shot through the heart with a .38 revolver by one of his security guards. Bonavena was just 33-years-old at the time of his death.