George Chuvalo was the reigning Canadian Heavyweight Boxing Champion for 21 years, from 1958 until 1979. Ranked in the top 10 of the World Boxing for much of his career, George faced many of the best fighters of this century: Muhammad Ali, George Foreman, Floyd Patterson, Ernie Terrell, Joe Frazier, Jerry Quarry and many others.

George retired from boxing in 1979 as the undisputed Heavyweight Champion of Canada. In 1990, he was inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame. After his boxing career, George took various parts in a number of movies, including “The Fly”, “Prom Night Three”, “The Untouchables” and most recently, “Dirtyworks”.

Today, George speaks to students, parents and other groups about drugs and how they have impacted his life. He lost 3 sons and a wife to suicide, as a result of substance abuse. His graphic recollection of events and his expressive nature enable him to convey his powerful message. The feedback he receives has been positive, appreciative and encouraging. Being a father to drug addicted sons provides him with the insight and wisdom required to capture any listener. His presentations are in demand from coast to coast. He de-glamorizes drug use by giving examples of what he has witnessed first hand. One fact is true – addicts always begin with experimentation. He also stresses the fact that in the criminal system, the majority of crimes are committed as a result of substance abuse. In most cases, addicts turn into criminal, not criminals into addicts.

Bio reposted from FightAgainstDrugs.ca

In our interview, we get to know George Chuvalo as he recollects the highlights of his career as undisputed Canadian boxing champion, as well as the biggest losses of his life as a father and husband. Today, he finds strength, love, support and hope in his second marriage, his family and knowing that he helps other young people through his program, Fight Against Drugs. We are honoured to have had the opportunity to speak with George Chuvalo. Thank you George.

Pro record:
73-18-2 (64 knockouts)

1st Canadian Heavyweight Title:
1958 (KO’d James J. Parker)

Notable Opponents:
Floyd Patterson (1965)
Muhammad Ali (1966 – for World
Heavyweight Title;
1972 – for NABF Heavyweight Title)
Joe Frazier (1967)
Jerry Quarry (1969)
George Foreman (1970)

Retired: 1979

 Part 1
George Chuvalo the boxer
Part 2
Chuvalo on boxing vs. UFC
Part 3
Being a Man...
Part 4
The deepest of personal losses...and fighting through it
Part 5
Chuvalo talks about the movie The Fighter (2010): what it was like knowing Micky Ward and Dicky Eklund
Part 6
George Chuvalo: “It can happen to ANYBODY” From hopelessness to hopefulness...

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