Ken Buchanan, the legendary Edinburgh fighter, has passed away at the age of 77. Widely regarded as Scotland’s greatest fighter, Buchanan achieved legendary status in the ring, becoming the undisputed lightweight champion of the world in 1970. His record stood at 61-8 in a career spanning 17 years. Born in Edinburgh, he rose to the top of his sport, picking up the British lightweight title three years after his first pro bout.
Buchanan’s epic win over Ismael Laguna in Puerto Rico placed him on top of the world and led to further high-profile bouts, including a controversial defeat to Roberto Duran in Madison Square Garden where he shared a dressing room with Muhammad Ali. He also fought an epic with future world champ Jim Watt and regained the British belt. His undisputed success led to a statue erected in his home city, unveiled on Leith Walk last August.
The foundation which campaigned for the permanent memorial to the sporting icon paid tribute to the great and announced he had died in his sleep overnight. It read: “It’s with great sadness that we have to inform you that Ken Buchanan passed away peacefully in his sleep this morning. Further announcements will come and please give the family some time to process this sad news. RIP Ken, always a gentleman and one of the best champions we will ever see.”
Buchanan was awarded an MBE in 1972 and was inducted into both the International Boxing Hall of Fame and the Scottish Sport Hall of Fame. He was also among the ring inspiration for Josh Taylor, who took a slice of his nickname and fought under the ‘Tartan Tornado’ moniker. The duo, both football fans of Hibs, frequently met up and he visited Taylor’s Prestonpans home when he became undisputed super-lightweight champion in 2021.
Taylor was amongst the first to pay tribute and said: “I’m saddened to hear the news of the passing of my hero and Scotland’s greatest ever champ, whom I take such inspiration from. RIP Ken Buchanan, god bless your soul.” Barry McGuigan added: “So very sorry to hear of the death of the amazing Ken Buchanan RIP. Ken travelled to MSG to beat the great Ismael Laguna for the WBA Lightweight title way back in 1971. He was an outlier with his unique boxing style and he was a fabulous man. God Bless you Ken.”
Fans also wrote of their sadness at the legend’s death. One said: “Quite possibly the greatest pure boxer produced by the UK and without a doubt Scotland’s no1.” Another added: “Champion who transcended his own sport. RIP Champ.” Buchanan is survived by his two sons, Raymond and Mark.