Boxing Icon Frank Bruno Hospitalized During Flight to Thailand
Frank Bruno, the celebrated British boxing figure, is reportedly unwell and receiving medical care in a hospital after falling ill on a long-haul flight. The 63-year-old former heavyweight champion was en route to Thailand to conduct a speaking engagement tour, scheduled to appear at four events across the Asian nation.
Bruno boarded a connecting Qatar Airways flight from London Heathrow, transiting via Doha. He shared a photo on social media from his seat, pictured smiling and wearing sunglasses.
Mid-Flight Illness and Medical Response
In his social media post, Bruno commented on his journey: “Morning so the Frank Bruno World tour continues. Up early for a plane, I don’t sleep well on planes but trying to catch up on some zzzzzzzzzzzs.”
According to reports, the boxing legend became sick shortly after the flight’s departure. His assistant, Paul Hunter, travelling with him, promptly notified the flight crew about Bruno’s condition.
Hospitalization in Doha
Bruno apparently presented symptoms indicative of a high temperature and received immediate attention from medical personnel at Doha Airport. He was subsequently transferred to Al Wakra hospital for further evaluations and treatment. Reports indicate he remained hospitalized for nearly two weeks, diagnosed with a viral infection.
An unnamed source stated: “Frank was in a bad way and was sweating profusely and had fever-like symptoms. Paul was worried but was doing his best to keep him calm. He was treated on the flight at Doha, in the airport and then at the hospital.”
Meningitis Scare and Tour Disruption
The source further revealed that initial tests were conducted to rule out meningitis before a viral infection was confirmed. Bruno was scheduled to commence his speaking tour in Pattaya on March 6, followed by engagements in Bangkok, Hua Hin, and Koh Phangan.
Due to his health situation, Bruno’s management has also cancelled a scheduled appearance at Manchester’s Hotel Football this Sunday. Other events planned for this year, marking the 30th anniversary of his memorable 1995 victory over Oliver McCall at Wembley, remain under consideration.