TRIBUTES have been paid to Scottish boxing great Ken Buchanan who has died aged 77.
In the ring he achieved legendary status – becoming undisputed lightweight champion of the world in 1970.
Widely regarded as Scotland's greatest fighter, his record stood at 61-8 in a career spanning 17 years.
Born in Edinburgh, 'the Tartan Legend' rose to the top of his sport, picking up the British lightweight title three years after his first pro bout.
But it was his epic win over Ismael Laguna in Puerto Rico that placed him on top of the world.
His glory led to further high-profile bouts – the controversial defeat to Roberto Duran in Madison Square Garden where he shared a dressing room with Muhammad Ali.
He also fought an epic with future world champ Jim Watt andregained the British belt.
His undisputed success led to a statue erected in his home city – unveiled on Leith Walk last August.
His foundation, which campaigned for the permanent memorial to the sporting icon, paid tribute to the great, who died in his sleep overnight.
It read: "It's with great sadness that we have to inform you that Ken Buchanan passed away peacefully in his sleep this morning.
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"Further announcements will come and please give the family some time to process this sad news.
"RIP Ken, always a gentleman and one of the best champions we will ever see."
Buchanan was also among the ring inspiration for Josh Taylor, who took a slice of his nickname and fought under the 'Tartan Tornado' moniker.
The duo – both football fans of Hibs – frequently met up and he visited Taylor's Prestonpans home when he became undisputed super-lightweight champion in 2021.
Taylor was amongst the first to pay tribute and said: "I’m saddened to hear the news of the passing of my hero and Scotland’s greatest ever champ, whom I take such inspiration from. RIP Ken Buchanan, god bless your soul."
More to follow…
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