Tony Mundine, one of Australia's most celebrated boxers, has died at the age of 75. His death was confirmed by his son, former world champion boxer Anthony Mundine, who wrote on Instagram: "I don't know what to say, I'm broken."

Anthony Mundine, who was overseas when the news broke, also posted: "Dad I love you man, may Allah bless your soul. I'm on my way home to say goodbye one last time till we meet again. Thanks for doing all you did for me and supporting me in every moment, showing love and strength, gonna miss you Tonza, there's only one Tony Mundine."

Tony Mundine, born in Baryulgil, New South Wales, grew up without running water or electricity and began his career in travelling boxing tents, including those run by Jimmy Sharman. He moved to Sydney, where he became Australia's leading middleweight contender and challenged Carlos Monzon for the world title in Argentina in October 1974, losing via a seventh-round knockout.

Mundine was the only Australian boxer to compete professionally in four weight divisions, holding Australian titles at middleweight, light-heavyweight, cruiserweight and heavyweight. He retired in 1984 with 80 victories, including 64 knockouts, from 96 fights, and remained unbeaten against Australian opposition.

After retiring, Mundine opened a gym in Redfern and became a respected mentor in the community. In 1986, he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for services to sport and the Aboriginal community.

Anthony Mundine, who fought back tears while speaking to reporters after arriving back in Australia, described his father as "everything to me" and the man who taught him "how to be a man, make the right choices in life — don't drink, don't smoke, no drugs."

He also expressed that his father's achievements were not always fully recognised: "He didn't get enough credit for what he achieved as a black fella from the mission."

Fellow boxing figures paid tribute. Danny Green called him "a gentleman I had a tonne of respect for," adding, "Grew up watching him on TV ringside. Drew a great deal of inspiration from watching him, one of my late father's favourite fighters."

Billy Dib said Mundine was "widely recognised as one of Australia's greatest fighters" and described him as "a beautiful human being and a genuinely good man who always showed me love and respect."

Jeff Fenech, who said Tony "helped many kids in Redfern and the surrounding area," also called a potential state funeral "massive."

Tony Mundine is survived by his son Anthony, grandson Rahim Mundine, and cousin Warren Mundine.