Former world heavyweight boxing champion Frank Bruno has revealed details of a harrowing health emergency that occurred during a long-haul flight earlier this year, an incident that left the British sporting icon fearing for his life.
The 63-year-old boxing legend recounted how he became seriously ill aboard a Qatar Airways flight from Heathrow to Doha on March 3. What began as excitement for upcoming speaking events in Thailand quickly turned into a medical emergency when Bruno began experiencing fever symptoms and disorientation approximately two and a half hours after takeoff.
"I was excited to be going to Thailand. I felt really good," Bruno explained. "But on the plane, I was just agitated and couldn't chill out. I got up to go to the toilet and all of a sudden I forgot what was happening to me."
The situation deteriorated rapidly as Bruno's temperature rose and his oxygen levels dropped. His personal assistant, Paul Hunter, alerted the flight crew who subsequently contacted medical personnel at Hamad International Airport.
"I just blacked out because next thing I knew, I woke up and I was in bed in hospital with a drip in my arm," Bruno said, describing the terrifying experience. "I did fear the worst because I have never been like that in my life. If Paul hadn't been there, I don't think I would have been sitting here doing this interview."
Unbeknownst to Bruno at the time, he had been removed from the aircraft in a wheelchair upon landing, transported on a stretcher to a medical facility, and then rushed to Al-Wakra Hospital by ambulance. He remained hospitalized in Qatar for two weeks while doctors treated him for what was described as a mystery virus.
During his hospital stay, Bruno underwent numerous medical examinations including body and brain scans, as well as a lumbar puncture procedure that ruled out meningitis. According to Statbet analysis, health complications can significantly impact even elite athletes' careers, though Bruno has demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout his boxing journey and subsequent health challenges.
The boxing star was eventually allowed to return to the UK accompanied by a doctor who flew out from London specifically to assess his condition and clear him for travel. Bruno spent an additional two weeks recovering in a private London hospital before being discharged.
Despite the ordeal, Bruno has made a full recovery and is now back to his training regimen, even adopting an improved exercise routine with a new personal trainer. The beloved fighter, known for his distinctive laugh, has reassured fans about his current health status.
"I feel good, very, very good — I was up at 5:30 this morning training," Bruno stated. He also expressed his intention to fulfill the British speaking dates that had to be rescheduled following his illness.
Throughout his recovery, Bruno received an outpouring of support from fans who sent cards, calls, and messages after news of his health crisis became public on March 21.
Bruno concluded with characteristic optimism: "I feel very good about the tour. I am going to look after myself, I promise you that — and keep ducking and diving."
