THE career of Ken Buchanan was a blend of brilliance, bravery, and bittersweet moments.
In a two-year period between 1970 and 1972, the Scot blazed a trail from Puerto Rico to America, joining the likes of Jimmy Wilde, Ted “Kid” Lewis, and John H. Stracey in proving Brits could win big overseas.
His legacy is one of an underappreciated genius who achieved greatness with limited support. Yet the Portobello pugilist reached the pinnacle of his field, hailing from a country not known as a traditional boxing powerhouse, and shining as an example of a nation often capable of punching above its weight.
Two years after his death, Buchanan continues to inspire fellow Edinburgh fighters such as Josh Taylor and Lee McGregor. While many words have been written about one of Scotland’s and Britain’s finest fighters, Boxing News looks back at Buchanan’s five best victories, which shaped the legacy of a man who was more than just a champion.
Ken Buchanan vs Ismael Laguna I
Buchanan travelled to San Juan, Puerto Rico, to face the Panamanian champion Ismael Laguna in sweltering heat, winning a split decision over 15 rounds to claim the WBA lightweight title.
The victory stands out as a monumental upset. British fighters rarely won world titles abroad at the time, and Buchanan overcame extreme conditions and a hostile crowd at 2pm on a boiling hot Saturday afternoon.
His technical brilliance, especially his jab and footwork, neutralised Laguna’s speed and aggression. It was a career-defining moment, earning him the 1970 Boxing Writers Association of America Fighter of the Year award, ahead of icons like Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier.
Ken Buchanan vs Ruben Navarro
In February 1971, five months after fighting in furnace-type conditions, Buchanan added the vacant WBC lightweight title beating “The Maravilla Kid” in Los Angeles.
This win solidified Buchanan’s dominance at 135 pounds. L.A native Navarro was a tough, durable contender, but Buchanan’s precision and ring generalship outclassed him over 15 rounds. Navarro claimed he should have had a knockdown in the first round but referee Arthur Mercante disagreed.
It was a rare moment of undisputed glory for a British fighter, highlighting his peak skill set – crisp punching, defensive nous, and stamina.
Ken Buchanan vs Ismael Laguna II
Returning to Madison Square Garden Buchanan defeated Laguna almost one year on from their first battle. The Scot won a unanimous decision in another gruelling 15-rounder. His corner famously cut a swollen eye with a razor blade to restore his vision, allowing him to finish the fight. The incident later inspired a scene in the film Rocky.
Beating Laguna twice proved the first win was no fluke. The razor incident underscored his toughness and his team’s ingenuity. Buchanan’s ability to box through pain and fatigue was extraordinary.
Ken Buchanan vs Carlos Ortiz
In September 1972, three months on from the pain of losing to Roberto Duran, Buchanan stopped former three-time champion Ortiz in six rounds at MSG.
Ortiz, a Hall of Famer, was past his prime but still dangerous. Buchanan’s win demonstrated his power and resolve after the controversial Duran defeat. It was a statement that he remained a top lightweight. Crucially, it kept Buchanan relevant in a fight which featured on the Muhammad Ali-Floyd Patterson undercard.
Ken Buchanan vs Jim Watt
Buchanan outpointed future world champion Jim Watt over 15 rounds in a gripping domestic clash, retaining his British title.
Watt was a rising star, and this fight is remembered as a classic British showdown. Buchanan’s experience and craft edged out Watt’s aggression, showing he could still compete at a high level despite career wear and tear. Their mutual respect birthed a long-term friendship between the two.
