British boxing legend Henry Cooper dies

LONDON, May 1 (UPI) -- British heavyweight boxing great Henry Cooper has died at age 76, the British Boxing Board of Control announced Sunday.

Cooper, a former British, Commonwealth and European champion, died at one of his son's house in Surrey, England, two days before his 77th birthday, the BBC reported. He collapsed while watching a soccer match, the Daily Mail said

Cooper, affectionately known as "Our 'Enry," delivered what was probably the most famous punch in British boxing history when he knocked down Muhammad Ali, then known as Cassius Clay, with a left hook in a 1963 bout at Wembley Stadium.

Cooper went on to lose the fight in a controversial decision.

He was twice named the BBC Sports Personality of the Year and is considered one of the greatest British heavyweight fighters along with Frank Bruno, Tommy Farr and Lennox Lewis, the broadcaster said.

Ali issued a statement Sunday expressing regret at Cooper's death.

"Henry always had a smile for me; a warm and embracing smile," he said. "It was always a pleasure being in Henry's company. I will miss my old friend. He was a great fighter and a gentleman."

Cooper was knighted in 2000, 29 years after retiring at age 36. He had a successful career as a television personality and author.