Legendary Canadian boxer George Chuvalo dies aged 89

Canadian boxer George Chuvalo, a five-time national heavyweight champion, has died at the age of 89.

Out of 93 total professional fights in his career - 73 victories, 18 losses, and two draws - Chuvalo was never once knocked down to the canvas.

"His photos have hung on our walls for decades. His stories have been passed down from one generation of fighters to the next," said Sully's Boxing, the Toronto gym where he trained, in a statement.

He battled Muhammad Ali in 1966 and 1972, and though Chuvalo lost both fights, Ali called him the toughest guy he ever fought.

Chuvalo was born in 1937 to Croatian immigrant parents, grew up in Toronto and got into boxing at a young age.

Widely considered "Canada's greatest warrior", Chuvalo was known for his iron chin, relentless durability, and fights against world famous fighters like George Foreman, Joe Frazier, and Ali.

"George Chuvalo was a heavyweight boxing legend, a family friend and a Canadian icon," Ontario Premier Doug Ford wrote on social media.

"My thoughts are with all of George's family and loved ones as we mourn his passing."