Former world champion boxer Ken Buchanan has died at the age of 77.

The Scottish sports star died “peacefully in his sleep” this morning, the Ken Buchanan Foundation said.

“RIP Ken, always a gentleman and one of the best champions we will ever see,” it added on Facebook.

Buchanan became the undisputed world lightweight champion in 1971 after a memorable fight in Puerto Rico against Ruben Navarro.

He won the WBA lightweight title in 1970, adding the WBC title the following year.

Buchanan, who was born and raised in Edinburgh, won his first 33 fights and fought for the last time in 1982.

He was finally stripped of the WBC title when he lost against Pedro Carrasco and the WBA belt when he controversially suffered a second defeat against Roberto Duran.

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Buchanan was awarded an MBE in 1972 and a statue of him was unveiled in his home city in 2022.

Last year his son revealed he had dementia and was living in a care home.

‘Scotland’s greatest ever champ’

Boxing stars and commentators have paid tribute to him on Twitter.

Josh Taylor, current undisputed light-welterweight world champion, said on Twitter: “I’m saddened to hear the news of the passing of my hero & Scotland’s greatest ever champ, whom I take such inspiration from.

“RIP Ken Buchanan, God bless your soul.”

Former WBA lightweight champion Ray Mancini posted: “I just heard that my friend and one of the UK’s greatest just passed away.

“The great Ken Buchanan, was a lovely, lovely man and one great Champion. He will be missed and mourned but never forgotten !!!”

Boxing UK wrote: “The former undisputed lightweight world champion has died aged 77 – one of the very best these isles has produced. 61 wins, 29 KOs and a hero and inspiration to many.”

While SNP MP for Dunfermline and West Fife commented: “Saddened to hear of the passing of Scottish boxing great, Ken Buchanan.

“A true world champion and enjoyed his visit and appearance at Easter Road @HibernianFC a few weeks ago. Rest in Peace.”

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