Whenever boxing is back in full swing, so too vows to be one of the sport’s most beloved figures who is currently in a major fight of his own.
Famed former trainer and cutman Jimmy Glenn continues to remain hospitalized and under observation as he battles to recover from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
“Send prayers, love and positive energy to New York City’s wonderful, legendary Jimmy Glenn,” Lou DiBella, the Hall of Fame promoter and longtime close, personal friend of Glenn revealed over the weekend through his verified Twitter account. “Jimmy tested positive for #COVID19 and is in the hospital.
“He’s doing ok right now, not ventilated, and showing mild improvement.”
The 89-year old—whose family relocated to New York City during his youth—has been involved in the sport since the late 1940s when he first took up boxing in the amateur ranks. While his career never evolved past that point, one of his final bouts segued to his next career as he served as a cutman for the late, legendary Floyd Patterson, boxing’s first-ever two-time heavyweight champion who defeated Glenn in the amateurs.
From there came an unbreakable bond with the sport, having worked with many fighters through the years, including 1976 Olympic Gold medalist Howard Davis Jr. and former title challenger Terrance Alli. His decades of service was properly recognized in 2002, when he was enshrined in the NEw Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame.
However, it his role as owner of the iconic Jimmy’s Corner bar that has leaves him further endeared in the hearts of boxing fans. The famed Times Square gathering has been in business since 1971 and remains a popular New York City attraction to casual tourists and especially the rabid boxing crown. The midtown locale—dripping with wall-to-wall boxing nostalgia—has served as the go-to destination for many fight week gatherings during big events at Madison Square Garden and its accompanying Hulu Theater.
Glenn long ago adopted the mentality that since he’ll never be rich, he’d rather cater to the everyday soul. With that comes the least expensive prices you will find for beer anywhere in the city, although it’s his radiant personality that has long drawn the boxing crowd. That support extends well beyond a drink order at the bar, as he continues to show positive signs even while still hospitalized.
“Update from son Adam is that Jimmy continues to hold his own and no new issues have developed,” DiBella announced on Monday. “Docs are encouraged and he’s doing as well as can be expected. Keep the love, energy & prayers coming!”
Glenn is one of nearly 200,000 people to have tested positive for COVID-19 in New York, which carries nearly one-third of the number of total cases in the United States.
Jake Donovan is a senior writer for BoxingScene.com. Twitter: @JakeNDaBox