Oscar Bonavena

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The Ali vs. Bonavena fight promotional poster

Oscar Natalio Bonavena (September 25, 1942 in Buenos Aires, Argentina – May 22, 1976 near Reno, Nevada, United States) was a professional boxer. He earned the nickname "Ringo" for The Beatles haircut that he sported.

Oscar Bonavena travelled back and forth between America and his native Argentina, fighting in both countries and enjoying reasonable success. As a heavyweight contender, he first got attention after winning over the Canadian champion, George Chuvalo then going the distance against hard-hitting great, Joe Frazier on two occasions, the second for the WBA heavyweight championship in December of 1968. Two years later he fought Muhammad Ali, losing in the 15th and final round on a technical knockout. The referee's actions in this bout were highly questionable, including not making Ali go to a neutral corner when Bonavena was down in this round.

In February of 1976 Bonavena fought what would be his last fight against Billy Joiner in Reno, Nevada. In his career he had a record of 56 wins, 9 losses and 1 draw.

Liking the nightlife, he stayed in the Reno/Las Vegas area where he was murdered a few months later by Ross Brymer, a bodyguard at the famous brothel, the Mustang Ranch. Brymer served 15 months in prison for killing Bonavena after pleading guilty to voluntary manslaughter.

Oscar Bonavena was buried in the La Chacarita Cemetery in Buenos Aires, Argentina.