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Its gonna be two years tomorrow to the day that he died on that lonely highway in Las Vegas.
On the heels of the realization that his boxing career was probably over after losing to Clottey, he was a man in limbo. Too old to make 135, too damaged to try and too small for anything above 140.
His glory days clearly behind him, he decided that if he couldn't fight at the top he would rather self destruct.
And much like his fights he went out in the most violent way imaginable.
My g/f and I met him at the Showtime party before the first Toney/Peter fight in L.A. He was such a nice and engaging guy. He answered questions and just talked to anyone who wanted to talk to him about boxing or about life.
He was one of the most humble, gracious guys in the sport. Always signed every autograph that was asked of him and always had a big smile on his face. He wasn't perfect but it was clear that he was trying to become a better man.
We all know how much heart and skill he had in the ring, but its these connections with fans outside of it that made him truly special.
I still remember when I found out about his death on the night of May 7th, 2007. I have to admit I cried and was sad for weeks after in total disbelief.
Travel well brave warrior.
Heres to his memory.
On the heels of the realization that his boxing career was probably over after losing to Clottey, he was a man in limbo. Too old to make 135, too damaged to try and too small for anything above 140.
His glory days clearly behind him, he decided that if he couldn't fight at the top he would rather self destruct.
And much like his fights he went out in the most violent way imaginable.
My g/f and I met him at the Showtime party before the first Toney/Peter fight in L.A. He was such a nice and engaging guy. He answered questions and just talked to anyone who wanted to talk to him about boxing or about life.
He was one of the most humble, gracious guys in the sport. Always signed every autograph that was asked of him and always had a big smile on his face. He wasn't perfect but it was clear that he was trying to become a better man.
We all know how much heart and skill he had in the ring, but its these connections with fans outside of it that made him truly special.
I still remember when I found out about his death on the night of May 7th, 2007. I have to admit I cried and was sad for weeks after in total disbelief.
Travel well brave warrior.
Heres to his memory.
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