The Brit heavyweight champ and ex-I’m A Celeb star, 68, was ravaged by tumours on his back after too much sunbathing.
Docs said he would have died within three months. But after ops in home city Brisbane, Australia, Joe said: “Fingers crossed, as it stands now, I’ve had the narrowest victory on points. It has been a scary ride.”
Hungary-born Joe caused a sensation by beating Henry Cooper at Wembley in 1971. He became the oldest world-belt holder, winning the WBF version at 48 years, 110 days, and twice went the distance with Muhammad Ali.
Life of a legend
Age: 68
Fled native Hungary with family in 1956
Defeated Henry Cooper in 1971
Only fighter ever to go the distance twice with Ali
Oldest boxer ever to hold a world belt, at 48 years and 110 days in 1988
69 wins (41 knockouts)
Joe and wife Marlene emigrated Down Under in 1986 and he said: “Anywhere in the world I’ve been proud to show off my pecs. But the sun’s rays were cooking me like a piece of meat.”
Medics found eight lumps 18 months ago.
In February they said all had gone. Joe said: “I’m very happy now and back training. I feel so good I’m thinking about another comeback. Anthony Joshua, you’d better look out!”
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