Weight class boxing legend Ken Norton died

Ken Norton beat Muhammad Ali in a fight in San Diego, California, 1973.

Former heavyweight boxing champion Ken Norton, who had defeated world boxing legend Muhammad Ali in the 70s, died at the age of 70 years, according to his son.

Norton, whose health continues to deteriorate due to a series of strokes, died at a care facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.

Norton ever beat Muhammad Ali in their first fight in San Diego, California, in 1973.

In their last meeting in September 1976 in New York Yankee Stadium, Ali is able to beat Norton in a controversial fight to retain heavyweight title.

Former Marines

Ken Norton health conditions continue to decline due to repeatedly attacked stroke.

"I believe he is now in heaven with the true fighter," said Gene Kilroy, Muhammad Ali's former financial manager, told the Associated Press.

Norton began his career in boxing while serving in the U.S. Marines, and went on to professional boxing arena after he left the military in 1967.

He won the heavyweight title in 1977, but lost the following year in the classic 15-round bout with Larry Holmes.

After his boxing career ended, Norton appeared in several films and became a boxing match commentator.

Norton had five children, one only play professional football and is now a coach.