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Bugner to quit for good

Veteran fighter Joe Bugner, who has announced his retirement three times previously, says he will quit for good after tomorrow's bout with American Levi Billups.

The 49-year-old Bugner, who twice went the distance with Muhammad Ali, said he was happy to end his career in front of his home crowd at Conrad Jupiters against the 39-year-old billups.

"I think after 32 years in the business I've had a very good run and I'm very proud to go out on this fight,'' said Australian-based Bugner, who will go into the bout with a 68 win, 13 loss and one draw record.

"As far as I'm concerned I'm here to do a job. It's my farewell song and I'm going to beat this guy, there's no question about. That's how determined I am to go out on top.''

Bugner said that for the first time since his first comeback four years ago he had no niggling injuries going into a fight.

"I'm 49, but I've got to tell you I feel like a 29-year-old,'' Bugner said.

While the boxing grandfather walks around with a spring in his step, Bugner's wife Marlene has no hesitation in saying it will be her husband's last fight.

"If I had my way I would have had him call it quits 22 years ago,'' Marlene Bugner said.
It's terrifying every time he gets into the ring. I know he's said he was retiring a few times before but this time it's definite.''

Billups, who will concede height and reach to Bugner, said he could not afford to be beaten by the older man.

"I'm very confident every time I get into the ring, but I never make predictions before the fight,'' Billups said. "All I know is that there's going to be leather thrown and I'm going to do a lot of throwing. This is very important to me. If I get beaten by a 49-year-old man I'll retire.''

AP