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Book Review: George Chuvalo A Fighter’s Life

GCBy Jim Amato

When I finished the book “George Chuvalo: A Fighter’s Life”, all I could say to myself was wow, what a terrific book! I cut my teeth on boxing in the mid 1960’s. It was the beginning of a glorious two decades of heavyweight boxing. George Chuvalo was a major player during that era. He was a ranked contender for over a decade. He twice fought for the heavyweight title but Chuvalo’s claim to fame is that in 93 professional bouts he never hit the canvas. That is an amazing feat seeing George met Muhammad Ali (twice), Joe Frazier, George Foreman, Floyd Patterson, Ernie Terrell, Jimmy Ellis, Jerry Quarry, Doug Jones, Oscar Bonavena, Cleveland Williams and Zora Folley during his career.

This book is not just about Chuvalo’s boxing career though. It is also about a man who suffered personal tragedies outside the ring that would bring most men to their knees. How George endured these times of despair is a true testimony to his fighting heart. Chuvalo tells his story with brutal honesty. The good, bad and the ugly. After reading this book, I just had to admire a man who stayed on his feet inside and outside the ring.

Usually when I’m finished reading a boxing book I pass it on to another fan of the sport. I do have a shelf in my home I call my “Keeper Shelf”. These are books that will remain with me until the day I die. “George Chuvalo ; A Fighter’s Life” is a definite keeper. I highly recommend it.

The book is written by Chuvalo with Murray Greig.

Purchase your copy here.

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